Read More on Agrasen ki Baoli
History
There is no clear historical record available about when, how, and by whom this magnificent Agrasen ki Baoli was built. Interestingly, many historians believe that it was constructed during the time of the Mahabharata by the legendary king of Agroha, Maharaja Agrasen. The stepwell or baoli got its name from the King only.
In the latter half of the 14th century, it was rebuilt by the people of the Agrawal community who are the descendants of the Great Maharaja Agrasen. Some architectural features of the Baoli(stepwell) also indicate that some changes were done during the Tughlaq dynasty (1321 -1414) or the Lodhi dynasty’s (1451 to 1526) rule over Delhi.
The purpose to build this Baoli (stepwell) was not only to serve as a water reservoir but also as a community place. It is believed that women of earlier times used to gather at this Baoli and the cool surroundings of the baoli provided them with the perfect place to relax and spend some time away from the scorching heat outside
Architecture
The Baoli (stepwell) is 60 meters in length and 15 meters in width, comprises a unique and ornate architectural style. This whole Baoli (stepwell) complex is built out of rubble masonry, using rocks and stones. The rectangular shape of this Baoli (stepwell) makes it unique and it stands out from the other baolis in the city, which was built round in shape as water reservoirs.
The Baoli complex has three visible levels, each of which is adorned with beautiful and symmetrical arched that are present on both sides. Agrasen ki Baoli boasts of a single-flight staircase, and it is among few stepwells in Delhi to do so. There are a total of 103 steps that take you down to the water level.
Activities
- The covered well at this place is something to see.
- The small mosque present at this heritage site also stood against time and deserves some of your time to be admired.
- The arched alcoves lining the stepwell are very beautiful, it doesn’t matter how many times you have seen them.
- If you love to take pictures, then this place is a perfect fit for you.
- You can sit at the stairs of the Baoli and enjoy the surroundings.
Tips for visiting
- Alcohol is strictly prohibited at this place.
- Always be careful while walking down on the steps, people have slipped in the past.
- Restrain yourself from visiting the place in the rainy season as the water level rises.
Best time to visit
The winter season will be the best time to visit this historical Baoli. You will not be facing any weather problems in winters that you were destined to face in summers and rainy seasons. You can simply sit on the steps and enjoy the place.
Nearby Atractions
- National Museum
- Connaught Place
- Birla Temple
- Parliament House
- Rashtrapati Bhavan
- Khooni Darwaza
Nearby market/ shopping places
The Janpath market is located very close to this place. Two principal streets that combine to represent the Janpath market are Gujarati and Tibetan Market. You will find ethnic dresses, decorative items, cotton garments, Rajasthani color paintings, blue pottery, leather footwear, and carpets alongside other items to shop from.
Nearby Hotels
- The Gold Regency
- Hotel Aman Continental
- Olivia Hotels
- Hotel International Inn
Interesting Facts About Agrasen ki Baoli
- At a time, Delhi had more than 100 stepwells, but today only 10 are there in good shape and Agrasen ki Baoli is one of them.
- Some of the Bollywood movies that were shot here are PK, Sultan, and Mom.
- A photoshoot of Formula One model cars was done here in 2012.