Discover the stepwells of Rajasthan in India: uncover the stories behind it

Rajasthan is popularly referred to as the land of Kings, home to the deserts, stunning palaces, majestic forts, grand temples, rich culture and heritage and extraordinary stepwells, nowhere to be found elsewhere in the world. 

These stepwells are known as baoris or baolis in the local language which served as water reservoirs in the past and are intricately designed. These extraordinary structures are one of the finest examples of the grand architectural work of the rulers of Rajasthan and represent their rich culture, history, and the lifestyle of the people.

With the guidance of the best inbound tour operators in India, here is your chance to explore the best of Rajasthan and admire its architectural wonder.

But what are stepwells? How it works?

As mentioned earlier, stepwells are water reservoirs and are popularly known as the baoris or baolis in the local language. The main use of these baolis is to collect and store water, so that water is available throughout the year in this deserted land, where water was a scarcity in the past. Even during the hot summer months, these reservoirs have water in them, built with a series of steps downward towards the water level. This place was not only a water reservoir, but was also used for gathering rituals and shelter from the sunrays.

The first stepwells were built in the 3rd century and became popular during the medieval period, especially in Rajasthan where water was a problem during the summer months.

The grand architectural work of the stepwells

The stepwells in Rajasthan are architectural wonders, nowhere to be found in the world, the travelers from foreign countries are going to have a wonderful time exploring these unique structures. The functionality, the artistic designs, the intricate carvings, the systematically arranged staircases, and the multiple floors are some of the unique architectural design to admire. 

These stepwells are mostly built in the trade route, so that it is able to provide water and shelter to the traders and merchants. Let the best reliable tour operator India give you a wonderful tour of historical sites of Rajasthan.

List of the renowned Stepwells of Rajasthan

Chand Baori, Abhaneri

The Chand Baori is located in a village in Abhaneri and is one of the spectacular stepwells in Rajasthan with splendid architectural work. Whether it is the systematic arrangement of the steps or the intricately carved designs, it is a sight to behold. The Chand Baori was built by the rulers of Nikumbh dynasty by King Chanda in the 8th-9th century. The highlight of this stepwell is that it has 3,500 narrow steps, downwards towards the water, systematically designed and has 13 storeys.

The legend revolving around it……

According to the legend, it is said that the Chand Baori was built overnight by the ghosts, due to its intricate carvings, complex 13 storey building towards downward and the elaborate design. Near this stepwell is the Harshat Mata Temple which is an important religious site.

Toorji Ka Jhalra, Jodhpur

The Toorji Ka Jhalra is located in Jodhpur and is an extravagant stepwell in Rajasthan with impressive architectural work. The steps are systematically arranged with intricately carved designs; representing the great work of the artisans of that time. The scenes of the carved designs comprise of medieval lions, dancing elephants, celestial beings, etc. Take a tour of these places with the advice of best inbound tour operators in India.

Panna Meena Ka Kund, Amer

The Panna Meena Ka Kund is located in Amer, near Jaipur city and is one of the amazing stepwells in Rajasthan with fabulous architectural design. Whether it is the systematic arrangement of the steps or the intricately carved designs, it showcases the skills of the craftsman. The stepwells lead to a rectangular water tank, used for collecting water, and was used for social gathering and performing rituals.

Rani Ji Ki Baori, Bundi

The Rani Ji Ki Baori is located in Bundi and is one of the spectacular stepwells in Rajasthan which was 46 meters deep. It was built by Queen Nathavati in 1699. The highlight of this stepwell is that it is 46 meters deep, and the stairs are systematically designed downwards, towards the water. 

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