Built over a thousand years ago, this narrow stepwell is one of the largest in the world and an architectural masterpiece
Situated in the village of Abhaneri in the Indian state of Rajasthan, Chand Baori stepwell is around a two-hour drive from the bustling city of Jaipur.
Opened in 1800, the steps were built on the orders of King Chanda in the Hindu-Rajput architectural style and are also known as ‘bawdi’ or ‘baori’.
One of the largest stepwells in the world, it was constructed to provide water all year round.
Location: Abhaneri, Dausa, about 95 km (two hours) from Jaipur.
Getting there: There are no direct bus lines to the attraction. For Rs 20, you can go to Sikandra and from there take a taxi to Abhaneri for approx Rs 250.
You can also pay for a taxi for the whole ride from Jaipur or en route to Jaipur from Agra. Prices will vary depending on what type of car you choose.
Entry fee: Rs 100
Opening hours: 8am – 6pm
Option to pay for a guide
Unique to India, the wells have steps built into the sides that lead down to water.
Chand Baori has 3,500 narrow steps arranged in perfect symmetry, which descend 20m to the bottom of the well.
It is India’s largest and deepest stepwells with 13 floors and was built in the 9th century for water harvesting.
The fourth side of the structure includes a pavilion consisting of three stories and includes carved jharokhas and sculptures.
TIP: A visit to Chand Baori can be easily included in the Golden Triangle route (Delhi, Agra and Jaipur).
TIP: There is no strict dress code to visit the stepwell, but it’s always advised to dress moderately and appropriately.
TIP: There are guides at the entrance of Chand Baori, but you do not need to have a guided tour to enter the premises.
TIP: Why not take a visit to the village nearby in the Dausa district on the Jaipur-Agra Highway and see the Harshat Mata Hindu temple. Built between the 7th-8th centuries, it was destroyed and damaged by Mahmud Ghazni.
The temple was dedicated to the goddess of happiness and joy, Harshat Mata, who spread light and brightness. This is why the village was called the Abhanagri (city of brightness), which became Abhaneri over the centuries. Entry to the temple is free.
In 4 The Long Haul 