Can India’s new haunted hub attract global travellers?

Thursday, April 4, 2024

Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Kerala, 61 km from the bustling city of Thiruvananthapuram, lies the intriguing and eerie 25 GB Bungalow in Bonacaud. This British-era mansion, abandoned and shrouded in the whispers of the past, stands as a testament to the rich history and the mystic folklore that India is known for. Originally built in the 1850s as part of a vast estate cultivating tea and spices, the bungalow has transitioned from a symbol of colonial prosperity to the centerpiece of local ghost tales, captivating the imagination of both locals and tourists alike.

Its reputation as one of Kerala’s most haunted places draws visitors from around the globe, eager to explore the mysteries and stories that lurk within its decaying walls. The tale of the estate manager’s family, particularly the tragic and mysterious death of his young daughter, adds a poignant layer to the bungalow’s eerie aura, making it not just a relic of historical significance but also a beacon for those fascinated by the supernatural. This introduction sets the stage for a deeper dive into the haunting allure of the 25 GB Bungalow, inviting global travelers to uncover the secrets of this ghostly mansion.

• It has been shared that in India, numerous buildings, some of which were constructed during British rule, have been abandoned by their owners over the years. Among these, abandoned mansions have sparked intrigue and fascination among locals, often being referred to as ghost bungalows. A notable example of such a place is the 25 GB Bungalow, located 61 km from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, in Bonacaud, renowned as one of Kerala’s most haunted locations.
• The 25 GB Bungalow is reported to have been established around an estate by the British in the 1850s. The estate, spanning 1,414 acres, was predominantly dedicated to tea plantations, alongside 110 acres allocated for the cultivation of cardamom, rubber, cloves, cashew, and more, with workers brought in from Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
• Initially, this estate represented a successful and lucrative venture for the British. However, following their departure from India, the estate, and particularly the bungalow, began to decline and became the focal point of ghost stories. The narrative took a dark turn following the mysterious death of the 13-year-old daughter of the estate manager, who had resolved to stay in the bungalow post-independence with his family. Following this tragedy, the manager moved to London, but reports surfaced of sightings of a young girl’s spirit within the bungalow.
• Over the years, the bungalow’s reputation was further cemented by accounts of the girl’s screams echoing at night, deterring many from taking up residence there. Despite skepticism, those who attempted to inhabit the haunted estate found themselves unable to stay for long. Presently, the bungalow stands empty, transforming into a sought-after destination for tourists intrigued by its eerie legacy.

From a global perspective, the story of the 25 GB Bungalow in Kerala exemplifies how historic estates, especially those with tales of hauntings and paranormal activity, evolve into unique points of interest for travelers worldwide. These destinations not only offer a glimpse into the region’s past but also serve as hubs for those fascinated by the supernatural, significantly impacting tourism by drawing visitors eager to explore the mysteries these haunted sites hold.

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