Read More on Adalaj Stepwell
History
Stepwells, sometimes known as stepping ponds, were commonly constructed in semi-arid areas of the country, particularly along trade routes. Several pilgrims and traders going through the route used these architectural monuments to store monsoon rainfall and as a resting area. Adalaj Step Well, an important element of Ahmedabad's history, was built in 1498 by legendary queen Rudabai, the wife of the Vaghela dynasty's Rana Veer Singh. He was the ruler of the Dandai Desh, a minor country.
According to mythology, the kingdom was in desperate need of water, so King Rana Veer Singh decided to construct a large stepwell to remedy the problem. Though the monarch began the construction work, he perished in a fight with the Sultan of Gujarat, Mahmud Begada, and was unable to complete it.
Queen Rudabai was Mahmud Begada's true love, and he desired to marry her. The queen, on the other hand, consented to the plan if Mahmud finished building the stepwell. After the vav was finished, queen Rudabai ordered a few saints to bathe in the water, converting it into a holy well. She then died after falling into the vav.
Architecture
The magnificent monument, which is a five-story stepwell, is also significant because of the deities etched on its walls. Villagers are said to come to the stepwell to offer their prayers to the gods. At the entrance to the vav, there is a temple. The incredible historic landmark, which is built in the shape of an octagon, lets light in through an opening in the roof. This intriguing construction was constructed in such a way that the temperature within the stepwell is nearly 6 degrees cooler than the temperature outside.
The stepwell is accessed via three entrance stairs. A beautiful pitcher supposed to contain the water of life, the Ami Khumbor, and the tree of life, the Kalpavriksha, fashioned from a single stone, is a spectacular example of Indo-Islamic architectural style and architecture.
The navgraha at the bottom of the well is a significant component of the construction, which is thought to safeguard the ancient site from evil spirits. Visitors will be enthralled by the beautiful windows on the first floor.
Activities
- Only by walking down to the bottom of the stepwell can you find the Octagonal Vav. Even if you are unable to enter, you can see the magnificent building from the outside. You can also have a better view from the top. Coins are occasionally left here by people who just drop one in the hopes that their wish will come true. You too can test your luck.
- The sandstone contains several detailed scenes that are well portrayed. Islamic designs, as well as Hindu and Jain statues, can be found. This ties in nicely with the origin narrative for this stepwell. For history buffs and architecture students, this destination is full of surprises.
- The tree of life, Kalp Vriksha, is one of the most beautiful works of art here, carved from a single block of sandstone. You must look for it and click its pictures.
Tips for visiting
- It is recommended that you arrive as soon as the Adalaj Stepwell opens if you want to snap photographs.
- During the day, tour groups, schoolchildren, locals, and visitors all congregate here. Even with the crowds, however, you can still capture some excellent photographs. This stepwell is a joy to photograph in every way.
- Many areas of this stepwell are off-limits to exploration. On the path, they have spikes that are concealed.
- You may obtain a fantastic perspective from the top level above the stepwell, in addition to wandering inside the stepwell! It is not to be missed.
Best time to visit
From October to March, the greatest time to visit Adalaj Stepwell is when the well is not full of water and visitors can explore most of the stepwell's floors. The greatest season to visit Ahmedabad is the winter when the weather is calm and pleasant, and you can appreciate the city's wonders.
Nearby Atractions
- Sabarmati Ashram
- Kankaria Lake
- The Calico Museum of Textiles
- BAPS Akshardham Temple |
- Jama Masjid
Nearby market/ shopping places
- Adalaj Vegetable Market: This market is famous for its fresh groceries and vegetables.
- Fresh and green veggies: As per the name of this market, it is obvious that this market sells fresh vegetables as well as fruits.
- Hind Supermarket: This market provides you with most of the things you need in your daily life.
- Mini Market: This marketplace is good for having breakfast and buying vegetables.
Nearby Hotels
- Siara Styles Amba Suites
- Hotel leisure
- Hotel Prime
- Hotel Lotus
Interesting Facts About Adalaj Stepwell
- The roof of the stepwell features an entrance that enables light and air into the octagonal structure's interior. However, safe for a brief period at noon, direct sunlight does not reach the steps or landings due to the design.
- As a result, the temperature inside the well is approximately six degrees colder than outside. Another noteworthy aspect of the Adalaj stepwell is that it is the only one in Gujarat with three entrance stairs.
- These stairs come together at the top of the first story, which features an octagonal aperture.