10 Stunning Baolis That Showcase India's Architectural Grandeur

Waquar Habib

Rani Ki Vav, Gujarat

The Rani Ki Vav, also known as the Queen's Stepwell, was constructed during the Chalukya dynasty on the banks of the Saraswati River in Patan. It is considered a Nanda-type stepwell.

Rani Ki Vav | Shutterstock

Agrasen Ki Baoli, Delhi

The builder of Agrasen Ki Baoli is unknown. The site is a protected monument designated by the Archaeological Survey of India. It has been featured in blockbuster movies like "PK" (2014) and "Sultan" (2016).

Agrasen Ki Baoli | Shutterstock

Adalaj Stepwell, Gujarat

Built in 1498, the Adalaj Stepwell is an intricate work of architecture five-storeys deep. The baoli is a sandstone Solanki-style, or Maru-Gurjara structure with motifs of flowers and Hindu and Jain gods.

Adalaj Stepwell | Shutterstock

Chand Baori, Rajasthan

The Chand Baori is a large and deep step well in India, with 3500 steps on three sides leading to a tank at the bottom. It has been featured in films such as "Bhool Bhulaiya" and "Paheli".

Chand Baori | Shutterstock

Rajaon Ki Baoli, Delhi

Rajaon Ki Baoli is a 16th-century stepwell in Mehrauli Archaeological Park. It includes a mosque and tomb, and is just 2 km from the Qutub Minar Complex.

Rajaon Ki Baoli | Shutterstock

Raniji Ki Baori, Rajasthan

Built in 1699 by Rani Nathvati Ji Solanki, Raniji Ki Baori is a 150-ft deep stepwell in Bundi. It has fine carvings on its pillars and a high-arched gate.

Raniji Ki Baori | Shutterstock

Pushkaranis, Karnataka

In the Vijayanagara Empire, Pushkaranis were sacred water tanks in Hampi connected to temples for ritual bathing before prayers, most surrounded by pillars.

Pushkaranis at Hampi | Shutterstock

Surya Kund, Gujarat

Surya Kund is in the Sun Temple complex, built in the 11th century to honour King Bhima. The stepwell is a four-story underground marvel with pyramid-shaped steps forming geometric patterns.

Surya Kund | Shutterstock

Muskin Bhanvi Baori, Karnataka

Situated in Lakkundi, a village on the way to Hampi and known for its Chalukya-style temples, historical inscriptions and stepwells, the Muskin Bhanvi Baori is a beautiful 12th-century stepwell connected to the Manikesavara Temple.

Muskin Bhanvi Baori | Shutterstock

Baoli Ghaus Ali Shah, Haryana

Baoli Ghaus Ali Shah is a step-well in Farrukhnagar built by local chief Ghaus Ali Shah during the reign of Mughal Emperor Farrukh Siyar. It's also known as Ghaus Khan ki Baoli.

Baoli Ghaus Ali Shah | Wikimedia Commons

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