Opening time: 9 AM to 5:30 PM, all days of week
Situated right in the heart of Delhi on Hailey Road at Connaught Place, surrounded by tall skyscrapers, close to Jantar Mantar and at a walking distance from Rajiv Chowk and Barakhamba Road Metro Stations, Agrasen Ki Baoli is an ancient stepwell dating back thousand years. It is also called Ugarsen ki Baoli. This historic landmark and a masterpiece of architecture can be easily missed moving around on Kasturba Gandhi Marg but is must visit place for avid tourists.
Agrasen ki Baoli in Movies
The baoli became popular after it was featured in popular Hindi feature films “PK” of Aamir Khan, “Mom” of Sridevi and “Sultan” of Salman Khan. However, it is a fact this stepwell has been known to and declared a protected monument by ASI since 1958.
Who Built Agrasen Ki Baoli?
There are no historical records to prove who built this stepwell. However, it is believed to have been built by legendary king Agrasen. King Agrasen is also believed to be the founder of Aggarwal community in India. He is believed to have lived during the times of Mahabharat.
The present state in which it was found suggests that the baoli was taken care of and rebuilt by Tughlaqs in the 14th century.
Architecture of Baoli
The baoli has 108 steps. These steps are divided into three levels. Each level has a series of arched niches on both sides. It is 60 meter long and 15 meter broad.
The baoli is one of the 100-odd baolis which were built to conserve water in Delhi. At present, 10 or so remain in use.
The baoli resembles similar and perhaps more magnificent stepwell structures built in Rajasthan and Gujarat. However, the earliest baoli was discovered at the Dholavira archaeological site which dates back to Indus Valley Civilization.
Significance
The structure underlies the importance given to water conservation by the rulers of Delhi during different periods of time in history. This was built as a resting place for the commuters, traders or tourists who visited Delhi. There are rest room chambers inside the baoli. Storage of water ensured that there is no shortage of drinking water.
The fact that this remains a well-protected and preserved structure is a testimony to its historical value.
Nearest Metro Stations to Agrasen ki Baoli
Barakhamba Road station and Rajiv Chowk station are two important Metro Stations close to this historic monument.
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