Mithi Vav, Stepwell in Palanpur, India.
Mithi Vav is a stepwell in Palanpur featuring five distinct levels accessible from the western side. The walls and steps throughout the structure display intricate stone carvings that demonstrate the skilled craftsmanship of those who built it.
The stepwell was built in the eighth century under Parmara rule and includes sculptures adorned with inscriptions from 1263. It represents a key surviving structure from that era in the region.
The walls display detailed stone carvings of Hindu deities like Ganesha and Shiva, along with images of dancing figures and devotional scenes. These decorations reveal how the community viewed this water source as a spiritually important place.
The stepwell is located in eastern Palanpur and remains accessible to visitors interested in exploring ancient water systems and their design. The multiple levels require steady footing, and the interior can be shaded and cool.
This structure is the last remaining architectural relic from the Parmara period across the entire Palanpur region of Gujarat. Its survival makes it an exceptionally valuable witness to that historical era.
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