Chand Baori Step Well
The Chand Baori step well was built by King Chanda of the Nikumbha Dynasty in the 9th century A.D. It’s over 100 feet deep, and has 3500 steps arranged in perfect symmetry. It is one of the largest step wells in the world with over 13 stories deep.
A detour to Abhaneri, Rajasthan to see the Chand Baori step well is a great way to break the monotony of the journey between Agra and Jaipur. Visually spectacular, this ancient step well is maintained well by the locals – clean, quiet, free entrance, and devoid of hawkers and irksome guides. This has also featured in quite a few Hollywood & Bollywood movies as well (Dark Knight Rises, Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, Bhoomi etc).
Step wells are common in the North Indian states of Gujarat and Rajasthan. The Thar desert dominates these two states, and while both see seasonal monsoon downpours, the soil does not retain water. Summers are very intense and water is a highly precious commodity here. Step wells were a practical way to solve the problem of water storage. There are over 3000 step wells in these two states.
How to get here
Most easily accessible from Jaipur, Chand Baori step well is located in the small village of Abhaneri, a short drive east under 2 hours.