Chand Baori - Abhaneri, Alwar - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 76 km from Alwar, and 97 km from Jaipur, Chand Baori is an ancient stepwell situated in the village of Abhaneri in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is one of the must-include places in Alwar heritage packages.

Chand Baori, also referred to as Chand Bawdi, was constructed during the 8th or 9th Century CE by King Chand Raja of the Pratihara dynasty,and the stepwell was named in honor of the King. Archaeological surveys indicate that the high pavilions, upper arcade, and art galleries were added in the 18th Century, a period marked by the prominence of Mughal rule.

Recognized as the oldest functioning stepwell in Rajasthan and possibly in all of India, Chand Baori is also known as Bhulbhulaiya. Local legends suggest that it was constructed in a single night, and some residents believe it was built not by humans but by supernatural beings. A notable tale recounts a wedding procession that entered the dark cave within Chand Bawdi, after which none of the participants emerged, leaving the mystery of their disappearance unsolved. This cave extends approximately 17 kilometers and connects to Bhandarej village. Additionally, it is said that no individual has ever descended into the Baori using the same set of stairs and subsequently ascended by the same route, nor can one step on the same stair twice.

Chand Baori descends roughly 30 meters (100 feet) into the earth, making it one of the deepest and largest stepwells in India. It features 3,500 steps that cascade down 13 stories into a substantial tank at the base, constructed in an inverted pyramid style. The structure is four-sided, with the renowned 19.5-meter-deep geometric steps enveloping three sides, while the fourth side is adorned with a prominent corridor building featuring multi-storied pavilions. The upper sections of these pavilions are equipped with numerous jharokhas (windows) that provide views of the well, and the lower sections contain recesses that showcase stone sculptures and religious carvings.

The pavilion features an expansive hall with a distinct stage, which is thought to have been designed for the royal family to enjoy performances by court artists. Additionally, there is a chamber that seems to serve as the royal quarters. Visitors can access galleries that lead to projecting balconies, supported by pillars, which display exquisite sculptures of Goddess Mahishasurmardini and Lord Ganesha.

Nearby the stepwell stands a temple dedicated to Harshat Mata. This temple suffered destruction at the hands of Muhammad Ghazni during his invasion of India in the 10th Century and remains in ruins to this day. The remnants of damaged pillars and statues are scattered throughout the temple complex and its corridors. Currently, the central part of the temple is a domed structure, featuring intricately sculpted stone columns and pillars. The Archaeological Survey of India is responsible for its maintenance.

Since 2008, the Rajasthan Tourism Department has organized the two-day Abhaneri Festival, which takes place every October. This annual event has gained significant popularity in recent years, attracting tourists from around the globe to the nearby village of Dausa. Local residents participate in a variety of Rajasthani folk performances, including Ghoomar, Kalbeliya, Kachhi Ghodi, Langa, Raas leela, and Bhawai. The festival also features puppet shows and exhibitions showcasing art and crafts.

Timings: 8 AM - 6 PM

Entry: RS. 25 for Indians & Rs. 300 for Foreigners