Brij Raj Bhavan Palace in Kota, Rajasthan, India, is known not only for its grandeur and architectural beauty but also for its intriguing ghost stories. Believed to be one of the most haunted places in India, the palace has a reputation for being home to supernatural occurrences and paranormal activities.
The palace, which was built in the 19th century by Maharaja Bhim Singh II of Kota, served as the official residence of the royal family of Kota for many years. It is a magnificent heritage property that is now converted into a luxury heritage hotel, but its ghostly reputation has continued to capture the interest and curiosity of visitors from around the world.
The history of the haunted tales associated with Brij Raj Bhavan Palace can be traced back to the era of the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857, also known as the First War of Indian Independence. During this tumultuous period, the palace was occupied by a British officer named Major Charles Burton, who was in charge of the region. According to the legend, Major Burton was brutally killed in the palace by Indian sepoys (soldiers) during the uprising.
It is said that Major Burton’s spirit still roams the corridors of Brij Raj Bhavan Palace, and his restless soul is believed to be the cause of the palace’s haunted reputation. Many visitors and staff members have reported eerie experiences, strange occurrences, and sightings of a ghostly figure believed to be Major Burton himself.
One of the most famous ghost stories associated with Brij Raj Bhavan Palace is the story of the “Phantom Horsemen.” It is believed that Major Burton’s loyal soldiers, who were also killed during the uprising, still ride through the palace grounds on their phantom horses. Visitors have reported hearing the sounds of galloping hooves, neighing horses, and the clanking of weapons, even though no physical horses or riders are present.
Another common occurrence reported by visitors and staff is the feeling of being watched, followed, or touched by an unseen presence. Some have claimed to have seen shadows moving, objects being displaced on their own, and strange sounds coming from empty rooms. Some have also reported sudden drops in temperature, electrical disturbances, and inexplicable sensations of uneasiness and fear.
One incident that has been widely documented is the experience of the palace’s guards, who have reported encountering the ghost of Major Burton while on their night duty. It is said that Major Burton’s ghost appears as a tall, imposing figure dressed in a British military uniform, and he is often seen walking around the palace or sitting in the Durbar Hall, the grand hall of the palace.
In one particular incident, a guard claimed that he saw Major Burton’s ghost sitting on a chair in the Durbar Hall and smoking a cigar. The guard tried to confront the ghost, but as he approached, the ghost vanished into thin air, leaving behind the faint smell of cigar smoke. This incident, along with numerous other similar encounters, has added to the legend of Brij Raj Bhavan Palace being haunted by Major Burton’s spirit.
The haunted reputation of Brij Raj Bhavan Palace has also been corroborated by several paranormal investigators, who have conducted investigations and recorded various paranormal activities within the palace. Some investigators have captured EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena), which are believed to be voices of spirits, and have experienced unusual sensations, sudden drops in temperature, and unexplained phenomena during their investigations.
Despite its ghostly reputation, Brij Raj Bhavan Palace continues to function as a luxury heritage hotel, welcoming guests from all over the world. The palace has been renovated and modernized to provide modern amenities while still retaining its old-world charm and royal ambiance. The palace offers well-appointed rooms, exquisite dining options, and warm hospitality, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a unique and luxurious experience.
The management of Brij Raj Bhavan Palace has acknowledged the ghost stories associated with the palace but maintains that they have taken measures to ensure the comfort and safety of their guests. They have hired guards and security personnel to patrol the palace grounds at night and have also installed CCTV cameras to monitor any unusual activities. However, despite these efforts, the ghostly occurrences and stories persist, adding to the mystique and allure of the palace.
Many visitors to Brij Raj Bhavan Palace come with a sense of curiosity and excitement, hoping to catch a glimpse of the famous ghost of Major Burton or experience the paranormal activities themselves. Some even request to stay in the room where Major Burton was believed to have been killed, hoping to have a first-hand encounter with the supernatural. However, there are also those who are skeptical or afraid, and prefer to stay away from the rumored haunted areas of the palace.
The ghost stories of Brij Raj Bhavan Palace have also drawn the attention of paranormal enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, and ghost hunters, who visit the palace to conduct investigations and explore the mysteries of the supernatural. Several paranormal TV shows and documentaries have featured Brij Raj Bhavan Palace, further amplifying its reputation as a haunted place.
How to visit Brij Raj Bhavan Palace, Kota?
Visiting Brij Raj Bhavan Palace in Kota, Rajasthan, can be an exciting and memorable experience. Here are some steps on how to plan your visit to this historic and haunted palace:
- Research and Plan: Start by researching Brij Raj Bhavan Palace online or through travel guides to gather information about its location, history, and visitor details. Plan your visit by deciding on the best time to go, considering factors such as weather, availability of accommodation, and local events.
- Reach Kota: Kota is well-connected by air, train, and road. The nearest airport is Kota Airport, which has regular flights from major cities in India. The nearest railway station is Kota Junction, which is well-connected to major cities in India by trains. If traveling by road, Kota is connected to major cities in Rajasthan and neighboring states through a network of national and state highways.
- Accommodation: Brij Raj Bhavan Palace is a heritage hotel and offers accommodation options for guests. You can book a room in advance through the palace’s official website or through online travel portals. Staying at the palace can be a unique experience as you will get to experience the grandeur of a heritage property while also soaking in the palace’s history and legends.
- Palace Visits: Brij Raj Bhavan Palace is a private property, and only certain areas are accessible to visitors. You can take a guided tour of the palace to learn about its history, architecture, and the ghost stories associated with it. The tour may include the Durbar Hall, where the ghost of Major Burton is believed to roam, the museum showcasing the palace’s rich heritage, and the beautiful gardens.
- Ghostly Encounters: If you are interested in the paranormal, you may request to stay in the room where Major Burton was killed or explore the palace grounds at night to try and experience the ghostly phenomena for yourself. However, it is important to respect the property and the beliefs of the palace staff and other guests while exploring the palace.
- Local Sightseeing: Kota is a city with a rich cultural heritage and offers several other attractions to explore. You can visit other historical landmarks such as Kota Fort, Jagmandir Palace, and Chambal Gardens. The city is also known for its beautiful lakes, such as Kishore Sagar Lake and Chambal River, which offer boating and scenic views.
- Stay Safe: Like any other place, it is important to prioritize your safety while visiting Brij Raj Bhavan Palace. Follow the instructions of the palace staff and be cautious while exploring the palace grounds, especially at night. It is also advisable to take care of your belongings and avoid venturing into restricted areas.
- Respect the Legends: Brij Raj Bhavan Palace is known for its haunted reputation, and the ghost stories associated with it are deeply ingrained in local folklore. Respect the beliefs and feelings of the palace staff and locals regarding the ghostly legends, and do not engage in any disrespectful or harmful activities related to the paranormal.
Brij Raj Bhavan Palace in Kota, Rajasthan, is a magnificent heritage property that is also renowned for its haunted reputation. The ghost stories associated with the palace, particularly the legend of Major Burton’s ghost, have captured the interest and curiosity of visitors and paranormal enthusiasts alike. While there is no scientific evidence to support the existence of ghosts or paranormal activities, the palace’s history, architecture, and reported experiences continue to make it a popular destination for those seeking a unique and thrilling experience. Whether one believes in the supernatural or not, a visit to Brij Raj Bhavan Palace is sure to be an unforgettable and intriguing experience.