The general notion states that travelling brings us peace and happiness. However, there is another aspect of travel and tourism that will change your perspective in that area. Dark tourism, also known as grief tourism, is a form of tourism that involves visiting places related to death, tragedy, suffering, or significant historical atrocities. Unlike traditional tourism, where travellers seek leisure, peace, and entertainment, dark tourism involves the exploration of sites with dark or sombre histories. It can raise awareness of historical events and promote understanding and remembrance. Check out these 8 destinations in India, known for their tragic stories.
Dark Tourism Places
1. Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar
Jallianwala Bagh is a public garden that witnessed the infamous Jallianwala Bagh massacre on April 13, 1919. British troops opened fire on a peaceful gathering of unarmed Indian civilians, resulting in the deaths of hundreds and the injuries of thousands. The incident played a crucial role in fueling India’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule.
Where: Golden Temple Rd, Amritsar, Punjab
When: 6:30 am – 7:30 pm
2. Cellular Jail, Port Blair
The Cellular Jail, also known as Kala Pani, was a colonial-era prison used by the British to incarcerate Indian freedom fighters during India’s independence movement. The inmates endured harsh treatment and isolation on this remote island. Today, the jail serves as a national memorial, providing insights into this dark chapter of India’s history.
Where: Atlanta Point, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
When: 9 am – 5 pm
3. Victoria Memorial, Kolkata
The Victoria Memorial is a grand colonial-era monument dedicated to Queen Victoria. While it is an architectural masterpiece and a major tourist destination, it also houses a gallery that portrays the partition of Bengal and India’s struggle for independence.
Where: Victoria Memorial Hall, 1, Queens Way, Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal
When: 10 am – 5 pm
4. Sabarmati Ashram, Ahmedabad
The Sabarmati Ashram was the residence of Mahatma Gandhi during the Indian independence movement. It holds historical importance as the starting point of Gandhi’s famous Salt March in 1930, which was a significant act of nonviolent resistance against British salt taxes.
Where: Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya, Ashram Rd, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
When: 10 am – 6 pm
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5. Kuldhara, Jaisalmer
Kuldhara is an abandoned village near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, known for its mysterious history. According to local legends, the entire village was deserted overnight in the 19th century due to oppression by a local ruler. The village’s eerie atmosphere and its dark past attract curious visitors interested in exploring the paranormal.
Where: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
When: 8 am – 6 pm
6. Roopkund Lake, Uttarakhand
The high-altitude glacial lake in Uttarakhand is known as Roopkund Lake or Skeleton Lake. It gained its dark reputation due to the discovery of hundreds of human skeletons dating back to the 9th century. The exact cause of their deaths remains a subject of speculation and has given rise to several myths and theories.
Where: Chamoli, Uttarakhand
7. Dumas Beach, Surat
Dumas Beach in Surat, Gujarat, is believed to be haunted due to its association with ancient burial grounds. Local legends and paranormal enthusiasts claim to have experienced eerie occurrences and ghostly sightings, attracting those with an interest in the supernatural.
Where: Surat, Gujarat
8. Shaniwarwada, Pune
Shaniwarwada is a historical fortification in Pune, Maharashtra, known for its haunted history. Legend has it that a young prince was murdered within the palace walls, and his ghost is said to roam the fort at night. The fort’s haunted reputation has made it a dark tourism attraction for thrill-seekers.
Where: Shaniwar Peth, Pune, Maharashtra
When: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm
As with any form of tourism, it’s crucial for people to approach dark tourism sites with empathy, respect, and cultural sensitivity.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva