Chand Baori Stepwell (Abhaneri)

Historic building, 90 km from Jaipur

should-see attraction

Opening hours: dawn-dusk

Address: Abhaneri, Rajasthan

Ticket price: Indian/foreigner ₹25/300

Visit duration: People typically spend up to 30 minutes here

Website: www.chandbaori.org

About Chand Baori Stepwell (Abhaneri)

Chand Baori is a stepwell located in the town of Abhaneri, 90 km east of Jaipur. It is one of the deepest and largest stepwells in India. This stepwell portrays the uniqueness of ancient Indian architecture that is lost in the modern world. Chand Baori is a millennium-year-old architecture still flaunting its majesty in contemporary times.

An overview image of the Chand Baori can only project the well and the stairs but what it fails to capture is the intricate and detailed architecture of the complex. The architecture of the stepwell can be appreciated only by visiting the place in person.

History of Chand Baori Stepwell (Abhaneri)

Chand Baori dates back to the 8th century. It is named after a regional ruler of the Nikumbh dynasty, Raja Chanda. The extreme arid weather of Rajasthan influences the design of Chand Baori's structure allowing it to conserve water as much as possible.

A powerful dynasty called Nikumbh ruled the region for almost 400 years. The king was a devotee of Goddess Harshat Mata who symbolises joy and happiness. He dedicated the complex to the Goddess for the prosperity of his kingdom.

The temple of Harshat Mata has been a pilgrimage site and the well quenched the thirst of many pilgrims travelling from a far distance during numerous significant religious and ceremonial activities.

During the 18th century, the upper stories, the column arcade, art galleries and a retaining wall around the well were added during the Mughal rule.

Architecture of Chand Baori Stepwell (Abhaneri)

Abhaneri Stepwell is a four-sided well which is 100 feet deep. It has 13 storeys and 3,500 steps to descend to the bottom. The air at the bottom of the complex is cooler than at the surface.

Chand Baori was built with red sandstones. You can enter the complex through a simple doorway. The humble and bland look of the exterior of the gateway contrasts with the interior which is designed with numerous pillars adjoined by archways. These pillars are engraved with floral and arabesque patterns. The sunray penetrating inside the gallery gives a mystic and antique vibe to the visitors.

The door extends itself into a wall that encloses the entire complex. Each corner has octagonal rooms that lead to the narrow roof and highlight the edges. A column arcade supports the narrow terrace of the complex. These pillars mark the split between the gallery and the pathway.

The entrance side of the complex has galleries on two floors which were used by the royals as the resting room and as you descend the stairs the galleries disappear into a simple brick wall. The entrance draws the first step to descend into the well with a staircase located on both sides. The tunnels ushers to the stairs on the other three sides which are filled with numerous 6-7 steps staircases.

The stepwell houses some idols of Lord Ganesh and Mahisasurmardini along with some stunningly carved jharokhas. Figurines of gods and goddesses and arabesque designs are intricately carved on the pillars and walls of the complex.

At the back of Abhaneri Stepwell is the Harshat Mata temple. The path is decorated with stone carvings that are settled on either side and ushering you to the staircase that is attached to the temple. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple is adjoined to a dome-shaped open mandapa that is supported by pillars. The walls and pillars of the temple illustrate the mythological figures and arabesque pattern that portrays the skills, talent and craftworks of the artisans and sculptors that developed the entire complex.

Entry fee and timings

Abhaneri Stepwell is open every day from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. The entry fee costs ₹25 for Indians and ₹300 for foreign.

Facts and tips about Chand Baori Stepwell (Abhaneri)

• The village Abhaneri is stated to have originated from the blessings of Harshat Mata. However, no epigraphy confirms the claims that King Chand built the stepwell in the 10th century. The temple was likely a later addition to the complex.


• The famous Hollywood movie, ‘The Dark Knight Rises’ of 2012 got its inspiration for one of its production sets from the structure of Chand Baori, however, the shoot did not take place at the complex.


• Make sure to leave your footwear on the stairs before entering the Harshat Mata temple.

Other attractions near Chand Baori Stepwell (Abhaneri)

• Jaipur - 90 km
• Fatehpur Sikri - 124 km
• Agra - 161 km

FAQs about Chand Baori Stepwell (Abhaneri)

1. Is there any restriction on the tour of the stepwell?

The upper palace of the stepwell is now restricted to tourists.

2. What is the Abhaneri festival?

Abhaneri Stepwell hosts the annual Abhaneri festival to pay respect to Goddess Harshat Mata. It is a three-day festival which occurs before the Sharad Navratri.

3. Can we walk down the steps well?

No, tourists are not allowed to descend the stairs of the stepwell.