The Wazirpur Baoli Stepwell is yet another hidden gem in heart of south Delhi. It is located near an equally unknown cluster of Lodhi era tombs and is accompanied by a wall mosque too.
There is also a beautiful well-maintained garden surrounding the baoli.
The gardens and the monument are by and large neat and clean.
A Stepwell is a deep and open well in which the water is reached by descending a large number of steps.
They are typically built as multi-storied with a turning water wheel to raise the water to the ground level.
This tomb was built by Ibrahim Lodhi and is one of the architectural gems of the Delhi sultanate. The description by ASI is there right next to the entrance gate.
The construction of the Wazirpur stepwell is mainly utilitarian, and also includes embellishments of architectural significance like the array of tombs nearby.
Stepwells are one of the many types of storage tanks that are found all over India primarily to cope with seasonal fluctuations in water availability.
A Stepwell is different from other wells in that many people can access the water simultaneously by climbing the steps.
The walls of the stepwell are lined up with blocks of stone and without mortar at some places.
The stepwell originally served a leisure purpose as well as providing water.
I saw that the Wazirpur stepwell consisted of two parts - a vertical shaft from which water is drawn and a surrounding subterranean passageway that was inclined.
There were galleries and chambers surrounding the well and as I stepped down it became cool and quiet even during the hot summer of Delhi last month.
This is the view from the other side of the main shaft of the well.
My Impressions
I found the Wazirpur stepwell to be a peaceful and less frequented place. It is located in the middle of a gated society. This stepwell is a nice place to spend some time alone or with friends. I recommend visiting in the evenings for a little peach from Delhi’s urban woes.
Accessibility Features
The main entrance is accessible via a ramp and a person in a wheelchair can enjoy the panoramic views of the stepwell from the ground level.
Here’s a snapshot:
Ramp access.
A wheelchair-accessible Entrance.
A wheelchair-accessible Restroom/Toilet.
A wheelchair-accessible Parking.