Bai Harir Stepwell, 15th-century stepwell in Asarwa, Ahmedabad, India.
Bai Harir Stepwell is a five-story sandstone structure in the Asarwa neighborhood featuring carved stone columns, spiral staircases, and multiple platform levels. The construction descends to two water wells at its deepest point.
The structure was built in 1499 during Sultan Mahmud Begada's reign, funded by Dhai Harir, superintendent of the royal harem. Its construction represented a major water management project commissioned by the royal administration of that period.
Persian inscriptions on the north wall and Sanskrit text on the south wall indicate the structure served as a resting place with sacred water. The presence of text in both languages shows how different communities shared and valued this space together.
The structure maintains cool temperatures year-round as you descend the staircases, providing relief from heat. Wear sturdy shoes since the pathways can become slippery depending on weather conditions.
The structure displays geometric patterns and floral ornaments, yet surprisingly features elephant carvings across its multiple gallery levels. This blend of Islamic design principles with local animal imagery creates something unusual for this architectural type.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
