What is Dark Tourism? 5 Travel Places Known For Its Dark History

New Delhi: As God's Own Country Kerala grapples with deadly landslides in Wayanad that have claimed nearly 300 lives, state officials are warning against promoting dark tourism. Kerala, a popular getaway for many, is now advising people to avoid sightseeing as it may interfere with rescue operations. Authorities are cautioning the public to stay away from the area and warning against "dark tourism," which could obstruct crucial rescue efforts.

"Please don't go to disaster areas for sightseeing. It will affect rescue operations. Call 112 for assistance," Kerala Police warned in a message posted on X. 

Lately, the term "Dark Tourism" has been in the buzz. Dark tourism involves travelling to places historically associated with death and tragedy. This type of tourism often gives travelers a deeper understanding of history and a glimpse into the suffering of the victims.

Here are 5 places around the world with a dark past that you can visit:

1. Auschwitz Concentration Camps, Poland

Auschwitz Concentration Camps, located in Poland, are familiar to fans of "The Diary of a Young Girl". 

Established in 1940, Auschwitz is infamous as the largest death camp in world history. The camp witnessed unimaginable horrors and sufferings of Jews at the hands of the Nazis, and it still holds immense historical significance today.

It stands as a symbol of torture, suffering, and the senseless death of innocent lives. Every year, over 250,000 tourists visit this sorrowful site.

2. Ground Zero, New York

On September 11, 2001, when terrorists hijacked planes and struck the Twin Towers, the world witnessed the most horrifying and deadly attack of the 21st century. 

The attack had significant consequences for the country's policies, from the smoke and sirens to the devastating loss of life. 

Ground Zero is a tribute to the heroes and victims who lost their lives, featuring a memorial with the names of the deceased. Visitors can hear firsthand accounts from guides, learn about the World Trade Centre, and take a moment to honour the lost lives and mark New York City's resilience.

3. Bhangarh Fort, Rajasthan

Nestled in Rajasthan's Alwar district, Bhangarh is a 16th-century fort built as the residence of Prince Madho Singh. The fort has many legends associated with it and closes after sunset.

According to a popular myth, a priest who practiced black magic fell in love with the beautiful Bhangarh princess, who had many suitors.

One day, the priest followed the princess to the market and offered her a love potion. However, she refused it, throwing it onto a large rock that consequently rolled onto the priest and crushed him to death. Before he died, the priest cursed the entire village, condemning it to destruction and desolation. Today, the place is seen to be destroyed and barren and is believed to be haunted by spirits.

4. Hiroshima Peace Memorial, Japan

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) stands as the sole structure remaining in the area where the first atomic bomb exploded on August 6, 1945. Following the continuous efforts of many individuals and the city of Hiroshima, it has been preserved in its original state, exactly as it was immediately after the bombing. This iconic landmark serves as a stark and powerful symbol of the most destructive force ever created by humanity, while also signifying hope for world peace and the ultimate goal of eliminating all nuclear weapons.

Many tourists visit the memorial to pay homage to the lost lives. 

5. KGB Headquarters, Lithuania

The KGB Headquarters prison has one of the darkest histories. It was operational from 1954 to 1991. Most of the prisoners were Jewish insurgents and they were tortured to death.

Currently, this site operates as a museum dedicated to the victims of genocide, offering guided tours of the interrogation rooms, execution zones, and prison cells. Some of the larger cells also feature exhibitions of gas masks, torture devices, and photographs of young men in uniforms. 

Dark Tourism sites like these have gained popularity among tourists as they serve as emotional symbols of suffering, providing a chance to pay respects to those affected by these tragedies.