25 Best Bollywood Horror Movies That Will Haunt Your Dreams

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable thrill.

The true gems of horror cinema are the ones that penetrate deep into your psyche. They go beyond mere frights and evoke introspection. 

These films are not confined to jump scares or gruesome visuals; they embark on a profound exploration of our perception of self and the world. 

They challenge the very foundations of our beliefs, leaving us questioning our desire for truth.

That’s why we proudly present to you the ultimate compilation of the 25 best Bollywood horror movies ever made. 

These cinematic marvels are guaranteed to haunt your thoughts, lingering long into the night. These four films will excite and delight you, leaving you feeling exhilarated and hopeful as the closing credits roll.

Also read, Best Bollywood Action Movies of All Time

25 Best Bollywood Horror Movies of All Time

25. Woh Kaun Thi? (1964)

• Release date: 20 February 1964
• IMDb rating: 7.7/10
• Cast: Sadhana, Manoj Kumar, Pran, Helen
• Director: Raj Khosla

Woh Kaun Thi? is a gripping mystery thriller that follows a man haunted by the enigmatic ghost of a woman. The film is suspenseful and intriguing, with enough twists to keep you guessing until the end. With stellar performances from the cast, particularly Sadhana in the lead role, the movie captivates viewers with its atmospheric storytelling. The hauntingly beautiful songs further enhance the eerie ambiance, adding to the overall appeal of this classic Hindi film.

24. Gehrayee (1980)

• Release date: 14 February 1980
• IMDb rating: 7.0/10
• Cast: Rajesh Khanna, Zeenat Aman, Farida Jalal, Amjad Khan
• Director: Ramesh Sippy

Gehrayee is a psychological thriller about a man whose deceased wife’s ghost torments him. Rajesh Khanna delivers a compelling performance as he navigates the blurred lines between reality and the supernatural. Ramesh Sippy’s direction keeps the audience on the edge of their seats as they follow a compelling plot. The haunting melodies and atmospheric cinematography contribute to the film’s gripping and unnerving atmosphere, making Gehrayee a memorable entry in the psychological thriller genre.

23. Pariwar (1984)

• Release date: 31 January 1984
• IMDb rating: 7.3/10
• Cast: Rajesh Khanna, Dimple Kapadia, Shakti Kapoor, Amjad Khan
• Director: K. Amarnath

Pariwar is an eerie horror film that revolves around a family plagued by a malevolent spirit. The film expertly builds a chilling atmosphere, infusing suspense and dread into every scene. Rajesh Khanna and Dimple Kapadia deliver powerful performances, heightening the tension and emotional impact of the story. With a haunting soundtrack and atmospheric visuals, Pariwar keeps the audience engaged, provoking a sense of unease and intrigue.

22. Talaash: The Hunt Begins… (2003)

• Release date: 18 September 2003
• IMDb rating: 7.2/10
• Cast: Aamir Khan, Rani Mukerji, Kareena Kapoor, Kay Kay Menon
• Director: Reema Kagti

Talaash: The Hunt Begins is a thriller that explores how the loss of someone we love changes us. Aamir Khan delivers a captivating performance, unraveling a complex web of secrets and mysteries. The film combines suspenseful storytelling with skillful direction by Reema Kagti, creating an immersive and engaging experience for the audience. Talaash keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, with unexpected plot twists and a thought-provoking climax.

21. 6-5=2 (2014)

• Release date: 10 October 2014
• IMDb rating: 5.2/10
• Cast: Ayushmann Khurrana, Yami Gautam, Nikhil Dwivedi, Rakesh Bedi
• Director: Rohit Shetty

6-5=2 is a unique horror comedy that revolves around a man haunted by the ghost of his former girlfriend. The film’s blend of scares and humor offers an unconventional take on supernatural genre conventions. Ayushmann Khurrana shines in his role, adding both comic timing and emotional depth to the narrative. While delivering thrills and spooky moments, the film also incorporates lighthearted elements, providing a refreshing and entertaining experience for the audience. 6-5=2 showcases the versatility of its cast and offers a distinct blend of horror and comedy.

20. Vaastu Shastra (2004)

• Release date: 17 September 2004
• IMDb rating: 5.9/10
• Cast: Shilpa Shetty, Akshay Kumar, Sunil Shetty, Paresh Rawal
• Director: Priyadarshan

Vaastu Shastra is a horror comedy that follows a couple who encounter paranormal activities in their new house. The film combines scares with humor, creating a unique and entertaining cinematic experience. The cast, including Shilpa Shetty, Akshay Kumar, and Sunil Shetty—three of India’s biggest stars—add depth and levity to the story. Priyadarshan’s direction effectively balances the horror elements and comedic moments, keeping the audience engaged throughout. Vaastu Shastra’s blend of spooky thrills, witty humor, and the supernatural makes it an enjoyable watch for fans of the genre.

19. Raaz Reboot (2016)

• Release date: 11 March 2016
• IMDb rating: 5.2/10
• Cast: Emraan Hashmi, Kriti Kharbanda, Manav Kaul, Daisy Shah
• Director: Vikram Bhatt

Raaz Reboot is a supernatural horror film that follows the story of a married couple, haunted by a malevolent presence. The film is a gripping journey of horror, suspense and redemption. It weaves together spine-chilling moments with intense emotions to take viewers on an epic quest through the mysteries of their past. The performances by the talented cast, led by Emraan Hashmi and Kriti Kharbanda, add depth to the narrative, while the atmospheric direction of Vikram Bhatt enhances the eerie atmosphere.

18. Haunted – 3D (2011)

• Release date: 14 October 2011
• IMDb rating: 5.3/10
• Cast: Sharman Joshi, Aditi Rao Hydari, Vir Das, Adah Sharma
• Director: Vikram Bhatt

Haunted – 3D is a movie about ghosts and the supernatural. The movie introduces the audience to a spine-chilling tale of secrets, curses, and the supernatural. As Sharman Joshi’s character investigates the mystery surrounding his family mansion, he discovers a gruesome past that threatens to drive him insane. With its innovative use of 3D technology, the film amplifies the eerie atmosphere, while the performances by the cast, including Aditi Rao Hydari and Vir Das, add depth to the narrative.

17. Darna Zaroori Hai (2006)

• Release date: 27 October 2006
• IMDb rating: 5.5/10
• Cast: Akshay Kumar, Bipasha Basu, Sunil Shetty, Paresh Rawal
• Director: Priyadarshan

Darna Zaroori Hai is a horror anthology film that weaves together multiple spooky tales, each exploring the theme of fear. Directed by Priyadarshan, the movie presents a collection of eerie stories, ranging from supernatural encounters to psychological terrors. The film, starring Akshay Kumar, Bipasha Basu and Sunil Shetty among others, keeps the audience on edge with its blend of scares and occasional humor. Darna Zaroori Hai offers a thrilling cinematic experience that explores the various facets of fear and its impact on human lives.

16. Horror Story (2013)

• Release date: 30 August 2013
• IMDb rating: 5.9/10
• Cast: Vir Das, Tisca Chopra, Sahil Anand, Aditi Sharma

Horror Story is a chilling tale about five friends who seek shelter at an abandoned hotel and encounter unspeakable horrors. With a gripping plot and eerie setting, Horror Story delivers spine-chilling scares and psychological tension. The performances by the cast, including Vir Das, Tisca Chopra, Sahil Anand, and Aditi Sharma, add authenticity to the fear-stricken characters.

15. 1920 (2008)

• Release date: 29 August 2008
• IMDb rating: 6.3/10
• Cast: Sameera Reddy, Vatsal Seth, Arjan Bajwa
• Director: Vikram Bhatt

1920 is a supernatural horror film that follows the story of a couple who move into a haunted mansion. As they encounter paranormal occurrences and grapple with the malevolent forces lurking within, they must confront their deepest fears to save their relationship and their lives. With atmospheric visuals and a gripping narrative, the film captures the essence of classic horror. The performances by Sameera Reddy, Vatsal Seth, and Arjan Bajwa bring depth to the characters, while director Vikram Bhatt masterfully crafts a tale of terror, suspense, and redemption.

14. Darr (1993)

• Release date: 24 December 1993
• IMDb rating: 7.2/10
• Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Juhi Chawla, Sunny Deol
• Director: Yash Chopra

Darr is a psychological thriller film that delves into the disturbing obsession of a stalker for a woman he loves. With Shah Rukh Khan delivering a standout performance as the obsessed antagonist, the film explores themes of love, possession, and psychological manipulation. Directed by Yash Chopra, Darr offers a suspenseful narrative that keeps the audience hooked until the climactic finale. The film is renowned for its captivating storytelling, thrilling sequences, and memorable performances, including those by Juhi Chawla and Sunny Deol. Darr remains an iconic entry in Indian cinema that expertly blends romance, suspense, and psychological drama.

13. Raaz 3D (2012)

• Release date: 21 July 2012
• IMDb rating: 6.2/10
• Cast: Bipasha Basu, Emraan Hashmi, Esha Gupta, Arunoday Singh
• Director: Vikram Bhatt

Raaz 3D is a supernatural horror film that follows the story of an actress consumed by envy and obsession, who turns to dark forces to destroy her rising competition. The film explores the themes of black magic and manipulation, taking audience members on a roller coaster ride through fear. The performances by Bipasha Basu, Emraan Hashmi, Esha Gupta, and Arunoday Singh bring depth to their characters and enhance the film’s eerie atmosphere. Directed by Vikram Bhatt, Raaz 3D combines supernatural elements with compelling storytelling to deliver an engaging horror experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

12. Mahal (1949)

• Release date: 9 July 1949
• IMDb rating: 7.7/10
• Cast: Ashok Kumar, Madhubala, Pran, K.N. Singh
• Director: K. Amarnath

Mahal is a novel in which the spirit of an ancient woman haunts a modern-day man. As he unravels his own mysteries, she finds himself entangled in love and revenge—and more than just one set. Released in 1949, Mahal captivated audiences with its haunting melodies, atmospheric cinematography, and Ashok Kumar’s remarkable performance. The film’s enduring legacy lies in its ability to blend romance and suspense, leaving a lasting impression on Indian cinema.

11. Ragini MMS (2011)

• Release date: 10 February 2011
• IMDb rating: 5.8/10
• Cast: Ragini Khanna, Rajneesh Duggal, Kainaz Motivala
• Director: Bhushan Patel

Ragini MMS is a found-footage-style horror film that revolves around a young couple’s weekend getaway in a secluded house. As they document their experiences, paranormal occurrences intensify, leading to a terrifying revelation. Blending elements of suspense, supernatural horror, and psychological tension, Ragini MMS delivers an unsettling and chilling narrative that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

10. Phoonk (2008)

• Release date: 11 October 2008
• IMDb rating: 6.4/10
• Cast: Sharman Joshi, R. Madhavan, Aditi Rao Hydari, Mohnish Bahl
• Director: Mohit Suri

Phoonk is a supernatural horror film that revolves around a skeptical man who encounters the wrath of an evil spirit after challenging its existence. The movie creates an atmosphere of dread and fear, combining psychological terror with shocking visual sequences. Phoonk is known for its ability to send shivers down the audience’s spine, leaving them disturbed and enthralled by its unsettling narrative and powerful performances.

9. Ek Thi Daayan (2013)

• Release date: 22 November 2013
• IMDb rating: 6.5/10
• Cast: Emraan Hashmi, Konkona Sen Sharma, Kalki Koechlin, Jaya Bachchan
• Director: Vikram Bhatt

Ek Thi Daayan is a supernatural horror film that weaves a tale of mystery and suspense. It’s a story about a magician haunted by an old flame, with unexpected twists and turns. With its atmospheric setting, gripping storyline, and impressive performances, Ek Thi Daayan keeps the audience engaged, blurring the lines between reality and the supernatural, and leaving them questioning what lies beyond the veil of illusion.

8. Raaz (2002)

• Release date: 11 January 2002
• IMDb rating: 6.7/10
• Cast: Bipasha Basu, Dino Morea, Akshay Khan
• Director: Vikram Bhatt

Raaz is a supernatural horror film that immerses audiences in the chilling experiences of a newly married couple as they grapple with mysterious and terrifying events within their new house. With a hauntingly atmospheric setting, the film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with thrilling plot twists that unfold amidst a backdrop of suspense. The standout performances of the cast, including Bipasha Basu, Dino Morea, and Akshay Khan, further enhance the film’s eerie ambiance and captivate audiences in this supernatural tale of fear and intrigue.

7. Stree (2018)

• Release date: 31 August 2018
• IMDb rating: 7.4/10
• Cast: Rajkummar Rao, Shraddha Kapoor, Pankaj Tripathi
• Director: Amar Kaushik

Stree combines horror and comedy in a unique and entertaining manner, offering audiences a delightful cinematic experience. Set in a small town haunted by a mysterious female ghost who preys on men during a festive period, the film expertly balances scares with humor. Rajkummar Rao, Shraddha Kapoor and Pankaj Tripathi deliver excellent performances in the film. With its intriguing premise, Stree masterfully blends spine-chilling moments with comedic relief, leaving viewers both thrilled and entertained by its clever storytelling and the remarkable performances of the cast.

6. Pari (2018)

• Release date: 21 September 2018
• IMDb rating: 7.2/10
• Cast: Anushka Sharma, Parambrata Chatterjee, Rajat Kapoor
• Director: Prosit Roy

Pari is an Indian thriller about a man whose life is upended when he encounters a mysterious woman with dark secrets. This atmospheric film creates an eerie and unsettling ambiance that keeps viewers engrossed. Anchored by the exceptional performances of Anushka Sharma, Parambrata Chatterjee, and Rajat Kapoor, Pari presents a gripping narrative that gradually reveals its secrets, leading to a thought-provoking and unexpected twist ending. With its blend of horror and fantasy elements, Pari offers a unique and compelling viewing experience.

5. Tumbbad (2018)

• Release date: 12 October 2018
• IMDb rating: 7.7/10
• Cast: Sohum Shah, Radhika Apte, Anita Date, Makrand Deshpande
• Director: Rahi Anil Barve

Tumbbad stands out as a visually stunning period horror film that mesmerizes audiences with its captivating storytelling and breathtaking visuals. Centered around a man’s obsession with a mythical treasure, the movie takes viewers on a dark and haunting journey. Sohum Shah, Radhika Apte, Anita Date, and Makrand Deshpande deliver remarkable performances, adding depth to their characters. Tumbbad’s unique narrative structure, coupled with its rich cinematography and striking imagery, creates an immersive experience that seamlessly weaves together horror, mythology, and human desires.

4. Darna Mana Hai (2003)

• Release date: 31 January 2003
• IMDb rating: 6.7/10
• Cast: Aftab Shivdasani, Urmila Matondkar, Ajay Devgn, Sunil Shetty
• Director: Prawaal Raman

Darna Mana Hai is an anthology horror film that weaves together interconnected supernatural tales narrated by a group of friends on a stormy night. The film blends scares with humor, offering audiences a diverse range of chilling and suspenseful stories. Notable performances by Aftab Shivdasani, Urmila Matondkar, Ajay Devgn, and Sunil Shetty enhance the eerie atmosphere and engage viewers in the film’s suspenseful and thrilling moments. With its clever storytelling and a perfect balance of fright and wit, Darna Mana Hai delivers an enjoyable and entertaining horror experience.

3. 13B: Fear Has a New Address (2009)

• Release date: 13 January 2009
• IMDb rating: 6.3/10
• Cast: R. Madhavan, Neetu Chandra, Sachin Khedekar, Murali Sharma
• Director: Vikram K. Kumar

13B: Fear Has a New Address delves into the psychological horror genre, unraveling the mysterious and eerie happenings faced by a family after they move into a new apartment. The film combines suspense, mystery, and social commentary to explore the psychological toll of supernatural occurrences. R. Madhavan, Neetu Chandra, Sachin Khedekar, and Murali Sharma deliver compelling performances, amplifying the film’s gripping narrative and leaving viewers questioning their own perceptions of reality.

2. Bhoot (2003)

• Release date: 14 February 2003
• IMDb rating: 7.5/10
• Cast: Ajay Devgn, Urmila Matondkar, Nana Patekar, Rekha
• Director: Ram Gopal Varma

Bhoot is a gripping supernatural horror film that follows a couple as they encounter paranormal activities in their new apartment. Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, the film expertly builds tension and suspense, delivering intense scares that leave audiences trembling. Ajay Devgn, Urmila Matondkar, Nana Patekar, and Rekha deliver powerful performances that add depth to their characters and amplify the film’s eerie atmosphere. With its skillful direction, atmospheric setting, and spine-chilling sequences, Bhoot remains a standout in the horror genre, captivating viewers with its relentless and terrifying narrative.

1. Raat (1992)

• Release date: 15 January 1992
• IMDb rating: 7.0/10
• Cast: Revathi, Rohini Hattangadi, Om Puri, Akash Khurana
• Director: Ram Gopal Varma

Raat is a psychological horror film that delves into a family’s terrifying ordeal as they confront supernatural occurrences during a fateful night. Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, the film expertly builds tension and suspense, delivering spine-chilling moments that linger in the minds of viewers. Revathi, Rohini Hattangadi, Om Puri, and Akash Khurana deliver captivating performances, immersing audiences in the characters’ fear and desperation. With its skillful storytelling, atmospheric direction, and thought-provoking narrative, Raat remains a standout in the horror genre, leaving a lasting impression with its unsettling and haunting themes.

Best Bollywood Horror Movies of All Time: FAQs

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