Adalaj Stepwell, also known as Adalaj ni vav is a very famous heritage-listed tourist destination of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. On Tripadvisor, it is noted among the top destinations to visit in Ahemdabad. However, if you want to explore more of the rich history of the region, definitely visit these 8 other magnificent stepwells (also known as ‘vav’).
We have photographed more than 100 destinations in India. The 9 stepwells shown below are the favourites around Ahmedabad in Gujarat, India, and definitely worth the visit.
The photos below showcase –
– the beautiful ornamental carvings,
– high-level construction skills and
– a rich culture of gatherings/ celebrations around water.
Most of these stepwells are not very well-known in the tourist world (hidden gems). Some of them are abandoned for a long time and not looked after. However, it still gives the idea of the grandeur and former glory. Our recommendation is to have a car with a driver to make the travel easy. Follow the itinerary as per the map at the end of the blog.
A. Adalaj Stepwell
Built in 1499 by Queen Rudabai
Indo-Islamic architecture style
B. Vadaj Stepwell
Built in 18th Century
3 storey vav
C. Bai Harir ni Vav (Dada Harir Vav)
Built in 1499 by Bai Harir
D. Ambe Mata ni Vav (Mata Bhavani ni Vav)
Built in 1499 by Bai Harir
This stepwell is now converted to a temple for Goddess Amba. The original structure is unknown.
E. Gandharva Stepwell
Built in 16th Century
The Vav is unique because of the main structure as the arches.
F. Ashapura ni Vav
Built in 15th Century
A part of the stepwell is modified to house a temple of Ashapura Mata. The rest of the structure is intact retaining its heritage.
G. Sidhvani Mata Mandir / Vav (Sindhvai Mata ni Vav)
Built in around 1633
The actual stepwell is in poor condition and in need of conservation. The temple next to the Vav is for Sindhvai Mata, hence the name.
H. Jethabhai’s Stepwell
Built in 1860s by Jethabhai
It has four pavilions and exquisite carvings
I. Amrutvarshini Vav
Built in 1723 by Raghunathdas
3 storey high and a unique L shape plan
*The information about Stepwells is approximate based on different resources available at this point in time.
The map below shows the route to follow to visit all the Stepwells mentioned above.
See Also:
More Stepwell images.
Further Reading: / References:
A short film on various stepwells in and around Ahmedabad.
Wikipedia – History of Stepwells in Gujarat
Atulya Varso – an NGO committed to revive and promote valuable heritage in Gujarat.
Have you visited any of these Stepwells? What would you like to see more from Government and Tourism Department in order to keep the rich heritage alive? Comment below to help other fellow travelers.