Stepwells of India

Architectural Marvels of Water Management

Stepwells are among the most remarkable examples of India’s architectural brilliance, transforming simple utilitarian water structures into extraordinary architectural masterpieces. Predominantly found in the western regions of India, such as Gujarat, Rajasthan, parts of North Karnataka and Delhi, stepwells reflect the ingenuity of traditional water conservation practices adapted to arid and semi-arid landscapes.

Known by different names across regions—‘Vav’ or ‘Vavdi’ in Gujarat, Baori or Bawdi in Rajasthan, and ‘Pushkarini’ in Karnataka—stepwells served not only as water sources but also as community spaces, religious centres and symbols of patronage.

To commemorate this rich architectural heritage, the Department of Posts is bringing out 16 Commemorative Postage Stamps showcasing iconic stepwells from different parts of the country.

Iconic Stepwells Featured on the Stamps

1. Chand Baori, Abhaneri (Rajasthan)

Chand Baori, located in Abhaneri village, is one of the largest and deepest stepwells in India. Built between AD 800 and 900, it consists of 3,500 narrow steps across 13 storeys, surrounded by pavilions and remnants of a temple complex.

2. Raniji Ki Baori, Bundi (Rajasthan)

Also known as the Queen’s Stepwell, Raniji Ki Baori was built in 1699 by Rani Nathavati Ji, queen of Rao Raja Anirudh Singh. The 46-metre-deep multistoreyed structure features exquisite carvings, places of worship on each level, elephant statues and a grand arched entrance.

3. Nagar Sagar Kund, Bundi (Rajasthan)

The Nagar Sagar twin stepwells, originally named Jamna Sagar and Ganga Sagar, were built between 1871 and 1875 by Maharani Chandrabhanu Kumari. Crafted in pristine masonry, the twin structures stand near Bundi’s Chogan Gate.

4. Neemrana Stepwell, Alwar (Rajasthan)

Constructed in the 18th century, the Neemrana Stepwell is as deep as a nine-storey building. Built by local rulers for famine relief, it reflects the importance of water conservation in Rajasthan’s arid landscape.

5. Toor Ji Ka Jhalra, Jodhpur (Rajasthan)

Built in the 1740s by the Queen Consort of Maharaja Abhay Singh, Toor Ji Ka Jhalra showcases hand-carved sandstone artistry. Recent restoration has revealed intricate carvings of elephants, lions, cow-shaped water spouts and water deities.

6. Panna Mian Ki Baori, Jaipur (Rajasthan)

Located near Amber Fort, this 16th-century stepwell is known for its criss-cross stair symmetry and raised central platform. It served as a community gathering space.

7. Pushkarini Stepwell, Hampi (Karnataka)

Built during the 15th century Vijayanagara period, this geometrically perfect stepwell has five diminishing stages. Known locally as a Pushkarini, it was discovered during excavations in 1980 near the Mahanavami Dibba.

8. Muskin Bhanvi Stepwell, Lakkundi (Karnataka)

Situated near the Manikesvara Temple, Muskin Bhanvi is a 12th-century deep stepwell. In this region, stepwells are known as Bhanvi, reflecting regional terminology and design.

9. Rani Ki Vav, Patan (Gujarat)

Built around 1050 AD by the queen of Bhimdev I of the Solanki dynasty, Rani Ki Vav is a 27-metre-deep stepwell adorned with intricate sculptures of Hindu deities. Constructed in Maru-Gurjara style, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

10. Dada Harir Stepwell, Ahmedabad (Gujarat)

Constructed in 1485 by Dada Harir, a dependent of Sultan Mahmud Begada, this five-storeyed stepwell is built in the Solanki architectural style and features elaborate carvings and stairways leading to the water.

11. Adalaj Stepwell, Adalaj (Gujarat)

One of Gujarat’s most intricately carved stepwells, Adalaj Stepwell was built in the 15th century by Sultan Mahmud Begada. It stands as a unique blend of functionality and artistry.

12. Surya Kund, Modhera (Gujarat)

Located near the Sun Temple of Modhera, Surya Kund is a large rectangular stepped water tank built in 1026–27 AD during the reign of King Bhimdev. The structure is noted for its precise geometry and ornate Kirti-Torana entrance.

13. Shahi Baori, Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh)

Built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daulah, Shahi Baori was constructed around the reservoir created for Bara Imambara. Its floors were specially designed by an expert from England, showcasing Indo-European engineering influence.

14. Ghaus Ali Shah Baori, Farrukh Nagar (Haryana)

This 18th-century octagonal stepwell was built by Ghaus Ali Shah, a local ruler under Mughal patronage. Made of stone, brick and lime plaster, it features a central water tank surrounded by arched verandahs.

15. Agrasen Ki Baori, Delhi

A protected monument under the ASI, Agrasen Ki Baori is a 60-metre-long stepwell with 103 steps across three levels. Believed to have been originally built by King Agrasen and rebuilt in the 14th century, it features red stone construction and carved niches.

16. Rajon Ki Baori, Delhi

Located in the Mehrauli Archaeological Park, Rajon Ki Baori was built in 1506 by Daulat Khan under Sikandar Lodhi. Named after the royal masons (Raj Mistries), it has colonnaded arcades and four diminishing levels.

Commemorative Issue

The Department of Posts is proud to issue a set of 16 Commemorative Postage Stamps celebrating the Stepwells of India, honoring these timeless monuments that embody India’s mastery of water management, architectural excellence and cultural heritage.