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.
History of the Attraction
The monument is supposed to be constructed by the king of Haryana, Maharaja Agrasen during the Mahabharat Era. Although it is popularly known as the Agrasen Ki Baoli, the board on the entry of the Baoli says that the name of the Baoli is Ugrasen ki Baoli. There has been no actual proof which can confirm its origin. Many believe that the monument was constructed by the Agrawal Dynasty. The monument was renovated in the year of 2016 and the post-renovation, the Baoli has become one of the most visited monuments in India. Protected and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, the speculations that the Baoli is haunted has been denied by the authorities. Many believe that the cold temperature and presence of bats give the monument a gothic appeal but that is all, there is no evidence of the Baoli being haunted.
How to Reach
Bus: One of the best ways of commuting within Delhi is DTC buses. The network has a vast coverage and is widespread. DTC buses number 894, 743Ext, 442, 957 and 522 ply towards the Agrasen Ki Baoli.
Metro: Barakhamba Road metro station on the blue line is the nearest metro station to Agrasen Ki Baoli. It is a distance of 650m from the baoli and one can easily walk from the station towards Baoli.
Rajiv Chowk (yellow and blue lines) and Janpath metro station on the Violet line are other two stations, at a distance of 2km and 800m respectively, close to the Baoli. After getting down from the metro, one can take a bus, an auto or a cab to reach the place.
Auto/Cab/Taxi: Delhi has an amazingly well-connected network of auto rickshaws, taxis, and cabs. For the ones visiting the city for the first time, these vehicles are a great choice. You can order them via apps like Ola, Uber, and Jugnoo or take them while you are on the road.
