Agrasen Ki Baoli is a prominent and important archaeological site in Delhi. It is a historical step well built during the 14th century. It is well maintained and protected by the ASI. It is indeed a wonderful and significant historic site.
According to popular belief, the step well was built by the great and famous King Agrasen. Thus it got its name as Agrasen Ki Baoli. The word ‘Baoli’ means well. This 60 m long and 15 m wide step well, built with rocks and stone is few of its kind in Delhi. Historians believe that the structure was rebuilt during the Tughlaq era. Many are of the opinion that it was first built during the time of Mahabharata. There is still confusion regarding the actual period of the baoli being constructed.
This ancient water reservoir has 108 steps. It consists of three levels which is visible. The lower part of the well is still found immersed in the water. One may find a drop in the temperature in the lower levels of the step well. The South Western side of the baoli consists of a mosque which stands in support of four pillars and a heavy stone on the roof. Many Indian films have been shot in this place. The Agrasen Ki Baoli is one of the popular tourist destination in Delhi.
Agrasen ki Baoli: History
There is no clear historical record about when the magnificent Agrasen ki Baoli was built and by whom. However, many historians suggest that it was constructed during the period of the Mahabharata by none other than the legendary king of Agroha, named Maharaja Agrasen. The stepwell or baoli draws its name from him. Later, in the 14th century, it was rebuilt by the people of the Agrawal community who are known to be the descendants of Maharaja Agrasen. Architectural features of the stepwell also indicate that it was reconstructed during the Tughlaq dynasty (1321 -1414) or Lodhi dynasty’s (1451 to 1526) reign over Delhi.
Ugrasen ki Baoli was built to serve not only as a water reservoir but also as a community place. It is believed that women of those times used to assemble at this well and the cool ambiance of the baoli provided them with the perfect spot to relax and spend some moments away from the scorching heat outside. The arched cubicles of the baoli were also used for various religious functions and ceremonies.
Agrasen ki Baoli Architecture
Ugrasen ki Baoli, which is 60 meters in length and 15 meters in width, features a unique and ornate architectural style. The whole structure is built out of rubble masonry, using an assortment of rocks and stones. The rectangular shape of the stepwell makes it stand out from the other baolis in Delhi that were built as round water reservoirs. It spreads over three visible levels, each of which is adorned with beautiful and symmetrical arched niches that line on both sides. Agrasen ki Baoli is among those few stepwells in Delhi that boast of a single-flight staircase. There are more than 100 steps that take you down to the water level and as you go down, you can experience a drop in temperature as well.
A circular well exists at the northern end of this stepwell. It measures 8 meters in diameter and remains dry for the most part of the year. When it is filled with water in the monsoon season, the water level rises to a height of around 4 or 5 feet. The well remains shielded with an iron grill that prevents anyone from intentionally or accidentally falling into the water. It is also linked by shafts to the rectangular passage. As the water level of the baoli rises, the passage also gets filled with water.
A small mosque exists at the south-west corner of the Agrasen ki Baoli complex. A triple-arched entrance leads you to the mosque. These arches are supported by four sandstone pillars, one of which had collapsed long ago. These pillars are ornamented structures that add to the aesthetic beauty of the whole structure.
Best Time to Visit
Winters in Delhi is the best time to explore the city with climate being favourable for a sightseeing tour.
How To Reach Agrasen ki Baoli
The nearest metro station is Rajiv Chowk. DTC operates several sightseeing buses which stop by at most of the popular tourist attractions in Delhi. You can also reach the Baoli by hiring a taxi.
