Embark on a journey through captivating stepwells around the world, delving into their amazing and marvellous beauty. Today, let’s uncover the timeless tale of the Adalaj Step Well—an architectural wonder that embodies both beauty and melancholy, never failing to captivate its visitors
Location
Adalaj ni Vav translates to “a well in Adalaj”. Vav essentially means a well in Gujarati and Adalaj is the name of the town near Ahmedabad Gujarat.
One would wonder what is the big fuss about a source of water – aka a well. Why was it constructed so elaborately?
Adalaj vav Ahmedabad is a Jaya style of stepwell. And it is one of the many popular ones in Gujarat
History of Adalaj vav
Numerous people question who constructed this step well but the answer isn’t straightforward . The well’s construction was started by the king but completed by someone else. Let me delve into its tremendous history. The well at the earliest was known by the queen’s name Rudabai ni Vav.
The roots of the Adalaj step well reach back to the 15th century, precisely in 1498 AD during the reign of the Vaghela dynasty in Ashaval, known today as Ahmedabad. Adalaj, situated along a bustling trade route, witnessed the commencement of a stepwell construction by Rana Veer Singh, the ruler, aiming to benefit the villagers and traders. However, the construction faced interruption as Mahmud Begada from Junagadh attacked the kingdom midway Tragically, Rana died in the battle, and subsequently, the kingdom was seized by the new Sultan. King Mehmud Begada was captivated by the beauty of Rana’s widow and proposed marriage to her. She agreed under the condition that her late husband’s final wish of completing the stepwell be fulfilled. Begada accepted this condition and finalised the construction of the stepwell. Once completed, Rani Rudabai arranged for saints to perform a Puja, purifying the well’s water. After circumambulating the well, she chose to end her life by jumping in, leaving the Adalaj Vav for her cherished subjects. In honour of her sacrifice, Mahmud Begada bestowed upon the stepwell the name Rudabai ki Vav..
Architecture of vav
The Rudabai stepwell’s architecture beautifully blends elements of Solanki and Islamic styles. Intricate carvings depicting Hindu deities coexist with Islamic designs across its five levels, all crafted from sandstone.
Its octagonal layout features numerous intricately etched pillars. The construction employs an interlocking mechanism and incorporates several openings for natural air and light while strategically preventing harsh sunlight from directly hitting the steps leading to the well. Interestingly, these steps only receive sunlight at noon. Each level includes sheltered passageways, offering resting spots for tired travellers. Notably, the temperature inside the Adalaj Vav remains at least 5 degrees cooler than the outside environment.
Ground level of Adalaj vav
The ground level of the vav is not the last floor.The well is actually five stories deep and hence, the ground level is actually the roof part of the vav The roof actually allows you to see the scale of the entire Vav. You can walk along certain portions of it. When you walk to the
When you walk to the far end of the floor, you can see the two wells of Adalaj. The opening has been closed with metal grills but you can peep down and see the five levels of intricate craftsmanship.
Near the main entrance of Adalaj vav, on the roof, there are two interesting attractions. The first one is a small guard station and the 2nd is the tombs of the very people who actually created the Adalaj stepwell. Though you will see only 5 of them intact, there were actually 6. As the Adalaj stepwell story goes, Mahmud Begada loved the design of this stepwell and asked the 6 masons if they would be able to re-create this masterpiece. When they replied yes, he had them executed and buried here. The reason being – he never ever wanted this exclusive design to be replicated elsewhere
Entrances
This stepwell follows the Jaya style and features three entrances. Presently, the east and west entrances are open to the public, while the southern entrance remains closed.
The vav boasts intricate carvings that captivate visitors, particularly at higher levels. The design of the two wells fosters a serene atmosphere, appealing to introverted individuals like myself. It’s a place where one can appreciate the stepwell’s beauty and find solace in isolation.
How to reach?
The distance from Ahmedabad to Adalaj Vav is 18 km and it takes around 30 minutes by road to reach here. Adalaj falls on the way to Gandhinagar – the capital of Gujarat. You can even plan to visit it straight from Ahmedabad airport, which is 14 km from the step well at Adalaj. You can hire a cab, rent a car to take one of the regular public buses to Adalaj.
Ahmedabad airport is well connected with regular flights from all the major cities of India. It is equally well connected by road and rail.
Where to stay?
Being situated near Ahmedabad, there’s a wide array of hotels and resorts available in the area. You can easily find accommodation suitable for your budget and preferences.”
Right time to visit?
Adalaj stepwell timings are from 6 am to 6 pm every day. I would recommend visiting this place in the first half of the day. The sunlight tends to enhance the gorgeous carvings of the well.
In terms of season, September to February is the best time to visit Ahmedabad and Adalaj.
Some special tips
The mesmerising carvings make it a must to bring your best cameras along.
Consider hiring a guide for a clearer and more detailed explanation of the history, but do note that there are no official guides available.
Restrooms are conveniently located near the stepwell.
Final thoughts
The blend of Islamic and Solanic architecture left me utterly captivated when I first beheld it with my own eyes. The intricate elephant carvings, the stunning window designs, and the unique architectural style are truly remarkable. Additionally, the story of the queen adds an intriguing layer to this destination. It’s a haven for history enthusiasts like myself. The beauty of this phenomenal stepwell is genuinely captivating; I believe your first visit will thoroughly satisfy your craving for splendid architecture
