I heard about this historic place and started searching for it on the map. I was eager to see it in person.
I reached Badlapur railway station and tried asking auto drivers to take me directly to the location, but unfortunately, they didn’t know much. Following the map, I asked to be dropped near Devloli village.
Devloli is a beautiful small village with about 15-20 houses. The village is neat and clean. With help of few locals, finally found the well. The route is simple. The well is located in an open field behind a small Hanuman Temple.
Locals mentioned that there used to be a route to Surat from here and that Badlapur was a changing place to reach other destinations. The name Badlapur supposedly comes from this. Though I’m not sure about the story, an interesting fact is that the well has sufficient water throughout the year.
The well resembles a key or a Shivlinga. This ancient place might have been built during Shivaji Maharaj’s era.
The well has a narrow band of steps leading down to the water level, a beautiful door reminiscent of a fort entrance, and a panel of carved figures above the archway. The carving of Lord Ganesh is recognizable. The figure on the right of Ganesh seems like a priest, and the one on the left with a sword looks like a warrior. I’d love to hear your insights on these figures.
On both sides of the steps, there are two carved animals whose heads have disintegrated, but the tails suggest they may have been monkeys. A small head is carved on the arch; either it’s a cow or a lion, its shape is unrecognizable due to disintegration. There are two small compartments to hold the lamps. The well is built with an intricate interlock system, where stones are locked to hold the structure strongly.
There is a Zilha Parishad School near the location which I found while heading back from the well. Remember this school as a landmark to find the step well. The well is exactly behind the school.
Despite its historic significance, the site is not a tourist destination. The surroundings are well developed now. They have even placed flooring around the well.
Here is the Google Maps link: Badlapur Step Well
Visiting historic places like Badlapur Shivkalin Vihir reminds us of our rich cultural heritage and the need to preserve it for future generations.
Please carry enough water and food. There are no shops around.
Feel free to share your thoughts or experiences if you have visited any similar historic places.
#AncientPlace #DiscoveringHistory #StepWell #Badlapur #kalyanDombivli #keyshapedwell
And the Google Maps link is immensely helpful.
