Chand Baori Stepwell in Abhaneri: History, Story, Architecture, Photos, Review
Do you know that Chand Baori at Abhaneri Village in Rajasthan is is older than Taj Mahal, Khajuraho Temples and Chola Temples but is younger than Ajanta and Ellora Caves? This pristine piece of architectur, known as one amongst the most photogenic stepwell of India, is 13-story deep step well which has symmetric triangular steps leading to the water at the bottom. Let’s know about its history, story, architecture and other facts:
- Water management solution: While its beauty is sure to leave you mesmerised, you shall, of course, understand that in the desert, it is a practical water management solution which also serves as a natural cooler in summer months.
2. It’s the oldest surviving step well: Chand Baori is the oldest surviving step well in Rajasthan and probably India.
3. Built by King Chanda: It was built by the King named Chanda or Chandra of the Nikhumbha dynasty.
4. Over 1200-year-old: The stepwell was built is around 8-9th CE making it 1200-1300 years old.
5: The city was named as Abha Nagri: It is named after the King who built it. The city was then called Abha Nagri.
6. Steep and triangular steps: On three sides of the 19.5 meters deep step well are geometric steps which are steep and triangular.
7. Pillared corridors: The fourth side has pillared corridors at multiple levels. Two balconies project towards the stepwell. They are adorned with the idols of Mahisasurmardini and Ganesha.
8. Vishnu’s image: The step-well also has an image of Sheshasayee Vishnu or the sleeping Vishnu.
9. 35000 steps: In all, there are 35,000 steps on 13 levels at the step-well. The Baori gets narrow as it goes down.
10. Green-coloured water: The water at the bottom is of bright green color which adds its own vibrancy to the ambiance.