Agrasen Ki Baoli, Hailey Road, New Delhi.
In India, terraced wells or stepwells were constructed to store the water of the rainy season. And this is one of the main basic needs of the human being. Special measures were taken by all the rulers for the collection of water especially rain water. They built water bodies like lakes, dams, wells, step wells etc and they were well aware of the importance of Water so they developed engineering techniques for rain water harvesting and in many ancient forts these systems are still functional.
Stepwells were such water bodies in which water was accessed through comfortable descending steps. Stepwells were built to help the people, as these were common in Gujarat and Northern India. Some of the renowned stepwells like Adalaj Ni Vav, Rani Ni Vav, Maharaniji Ki Baoli in Bundi, Agrsen Ki Baoli, in Delhi etc richly ornamented, multi storeyed and architectural marvel which are major tourists attraction. Agrsen Ki Baoli is a famous tourists attraction located in Delhi.
This beautiful stepwell was rebuilt by the people of Agrawal community in the fourteenth century, it’s suggested by its architecture. It is believed that it was built in the past by King Agrasen, who is the presiding deity of Agrawal Community and was in the Mahabharata period. It was especially built for the women’s of the Traders community as a Summer retreat. It’s about 200 ft long, about 50 ft wide and 90 ft deep. To access the water level more than 100 steps are there. Visitors are not allowed close to the water level as it has three mid terraces and construction is in U shape. Random rubbled stone masonry which was plastered as traces are visible. Either side walls are having double arches rows of pointed and round arches and front is having grand arches and top floor is having vaulted arch. Its architecture is of Persian style. Front arches were having chhjjas on stone brackets.
It’s an ancient Monument and a Protected Monument of National Importance looked after by the Archaeological Survey of India. It’s quite popular among the locals and tourists. It’s also a popular shooting spot, many films some scenes were shot here. Here no entry fee is charged and remain open from 9 am to 6 pm. Easily accessible from Connought Place and ITO. It’s situated on Hailey Road, a narrow road leading to residential area from Kasturba Gandhi Marg, New Delhi.
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