Kochi is famous for its colonial history, beautiful backwaters, and vibrant culture. But beyond its charm, the city has a darker side. Many places here are believed to be haunted, with stories of ghosts, eerie sounds, and unexplained happenings. If you love spine-chilling tales, here are 10 haunted places in Kochi you should know about.
1. Bishop’s House
Located in Fort Kochi, this historic house was built in 1506 by the Portuguese. Over the years, it has gained a reputation for being haunted by spirits from its colonial past. Visitors often report hearing footsteps and whispers in the hallways, making it one of the spookiest places in the city.
2. House No. 20, Choice Village
This abandoned house in Choice Village is surrounded by eerie stories. Locals claim to hear shrill voices and strange noises coming from inside at night. Many people feel an overwhelming sense of fear when passing by, making it a place most avoid after dark.
3. Perandoor Canal
The Perandoor Canal is linked to the spirit of Vaduthala Mathai, a criminal who was hanged for his crimes. Fishermen and passersby report feeling an eerie presence and seeing ghostly figures near the water. The canal’s haunting reputation keeps many away after sunset.
4. Mattancherry Palace
Also known as the Dutch Palace, this historic site is famous for its royal past—and its ghost stories. Some visitors claim to have seen shadowy figures of former royal family members wandering through the halls. Its mix of history and paranormal tales makes it a fascinating yet eerie spot.
5. Kizhavanna Canal
Near Ernakulam Market, this canal is believed to be haunted by restless spirits. Locals often hear strange sounds and feel cold drafts while walking along the path at night. Some even claim to have seen ghostly figures lurking near the water.
6. Willingdon Island
This man-made island is home to colonial-era buildings and many ghostly legends. Locals say British soldiers’ spirits haunt the area, especially near the old staff quarters of the Cochin Port Trust. Visitors have reported hearing mysterious noises and feeling like they are being watched.
7. Yakshikaavu Shrine
This small shrine in Mattancherry is dedicated to a female spirit known as a “yakshi.” According to legend, she was murdered and now haunts the area, seeking revenge. Many locals avoid this lane at night due to reports of ghost sightings and eerie experiences.
8. Fort Kochi Beach
During the day, this beach is full of life, but at night, it tells a different story. Fishermen who died at sea are believed to haunt the shore, searching for their lost nets. Visitors walking here at night have reported hearing whispers and feeling a strange presence.
9. St. Francis Church
One of the oldest European churches in India, St. Francis Church is said to be haunted by spirits from its past. Some visitors claim to hear whispers and feel an eerie presence while inside. The combination of history and ghost stories makes it a spooky yet intriguing place.
10. The Haunted Tree on Willingdon Island
Near the Embarkation ferry station on Willingdon Island, a massive banyan tree is believed to be haunted. Locals report seeing ghostly figures under its branches and feeling a sudden chill when walking past at night. The tree’s eerie legend makes it one of the island’s most mysterious spots.
Kochi is a city full of history and culture, but these ghostly tales add an extra layer of mystery. Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, these haunted places have stories that will send shivers down your spine. Would you dare to visit any of them at night?