Kochi in Kerala is known for backwaters and culture but few know its haunted side. This article takes you to six haunted places from old forts to ghostly churches where many have seen or felt spooky events perfect for ghost lovers.
Kochi is a lively city located in Kerala, southern India, famous for its rich history, beautiful backwaters, and cultural values. However, apart from the mesmerizing landscapes and busy towns, Kochi also has a distinct darker side. The city has several spots that are believed to be haunted and are highly coveted by ghost hunters. So, if you are courageous enough to delve into the paranormal, we present to you the most renowned ghost hunting spots in Kochi alongside their spine-chilling tales.
1. The Dutch Cemetery in Fort Kochi
Located in Fort Kochi, the Dutch Cemetery is one of the oldest in India and has breathtaking sights along with disturbing history. It was built in the 18th century, serving as a burial ground for Dutch and British colonizers who died due to diseases and grave accidents. The cemetery is engulfed by tranquility that is only disrupted by wind and sounds of birds. Visitors feel worried for no reason, as though someone is monitoring their every move. Some even claim to have shadowy forms emerging from behind the tombstones during dusk. The old graves accompanied by broken epitaphs increase the haunting atmosphere, which will satisfy any ghost hunter’s wish.
2. The Kottappuram Fort (Cranganore Fort)
The Kottappuram Fort is an old site located on the banks of the Periyar River, which was built in the 16th century. Though the fort is in utter ruins now, it is rumored to be cursed with the souls of soldiers that were killed here during battles. Residents have claimed to hear sounds of swords clanging and screams piercing through the fort at night. Some have claimed to see soldiers in armor as well, but only as ethereal figures. Because of its remote location and creepy ambience, the fort is widely regarded as a hotspot for paranormal activities.
3. The Bolgatty Palace
A luxurious heritage hotel on Bolgatty Island, Bolgatty Palace is among the most stunning places to visit. Others don’t know that the palace has a darker side. Although the Ibn wasn’t aware of it, this heritage hotel is known for its luxurious creeping accommodations as well as its mind blowing sceneries. The palace has an equally exclusive history that involves Dutch builders and a woman who died an unnatural death. Eventually staff and guests of the palace hotel began experiencing odd occurrences: footsteps with no people in sight, slamming and cracking doors, and unattended women sobbing in the quiet hours. Some of the boldest ones even claimed to believe the sight of a spectral female figure dressed in a high-waisted gown roaming about the corridors. Although the bolt has now turned to a renowned tourism spot, the legacy of the region is still enshrouded by remarkable history.
4. The Hill Palace Museum
Once the royal residence of the Kochi family, the Hill Palace Museum has made significant changes to values and has transformed into an archaeological museum dedicated to Kerala’s history and culture. Nevertheless, the palace is said to be haunted by the apparitions of its previous occupants. Many strange incidents have been reported, including sudden temperature drops, lights turning off without reason, and a dreadful feeling of being watched. Some of them include the elusive figure of a queen they dichotomously claim to have spotted rotating within the palace rooms. The museum’s extensive collections of antique pieces and artifacts entwine the haunting atmosphere and make the museum an ideal place for ghost hunters to explore.
5. St. Francis Church
Alongside the Hill Palace Museum, the St. Francis Church is another site in Kochi, and is renowned in India as the first European church. Although the church does draw a number of tourists, it’s infamous for housing the restless spirit of da Gama who was buried here, until his remains were reclaimed and moved to Portugal. Within the church, the columns serve as elenchos as many visitors claim to hear footsteps and whispers along with shadowy figures spotted lurking about the altar. The difference between the ancient and modern architecture alongside the solemn atmosphere creates a stimulating spine-chilling feeling for those fascinated in the paranormal, thereby allowing this church to blossom as a tourist hot spot.
6. The Kochi Harbor
The Kochi Harbor, one of the busiest ports in India, is known to have had its fair share of shipwrecks and maritime disasters. Locals think that the port is haunted by the souls of sailors who drowned in the waters. Fishermen have reported seeing ghostly ships sailing in the distance, only to vanish out of thin air. Some others claim to have heard old ships creaking and distant voices singing during the night. This combined with the shadowy waters and unnatural stillness gives ghost hunters something to marvel at.
What to Expect While Ghost Hunting in Kochi
For those looking to indulge in ghost hunting in Kochi, it’s advised to stay respectful and careful as these locations have their own set of rules. A lot of these places come with a lot of rich history and the culture often needs to be respected, so using a little common sense never hurt anyone. Pack a flashlight, cameras, and even a voice recorder just in case you run into some paranormal action. Given how powerful the atmosphere can be, you may also want to explore these spots with others instead of going alone.
Summary
The haunted places in Kochi are an unusual mixture of historical, mysterious, and supernatural elements. If you are a ghost enthusiast or an interested traveler, then these haunted places are bound to send shivers down your spine. Each place has its ancient stories and spooky sightings, including historic forts and cemeteries. Therefore, for those willing to delve into the sinister side of Kochi, all you need is a bit of courage to embark on a ghost tour that you will always remember. You just might meet something that is out of this world.