Pushkarini Stepwell, Hampi – Mini Sheet

The Pushkarini Stepwell, located in the ancient city of Hampi in Karnataka, stands as a striking example of the architectural excellence of the Vijayanagara Empire. Built during the 14th–15th century, this stepwell was an integral part of the royal and temple complexes of Hampi, serving both religious and utilitarian purposes.

Discovered during an excavation in 1980, the Pushkarini Stepwell revealed the meticulous urban planning and aesthetic sensibility of the Vijayanagara rulers. The stepwell features a perfectly symmetrical and geometrical design, characterized by its five diminishing stages that descend gracefully into the water tank. Its octagonal structure, carved from finely dressed granite blocks, demonstrates exceptional precision and proportion.

Unlike many ornate stepwells of North India, the Pushkarini Stepwell is remarkable for its simplicity and balance, devoid of elaborate carvings yet exuding elegance through its structural harmony. It was designed not only to store water but also to serve as a sacred tank for ritual purification and temple ceremonies, underscoring the deep spiritual connection between water and worship in Indian culture.