Adalaj Stepwell - Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Adalaj stepwell is five stories deep, built-in sandstone in the Solanki architectural style. A stepwell is built on an intricately carved large number of pillars with an octagonal plan at the top. Each floor is so spacious that the people can hold gatherings. The light and air can enter the octagonal well as it has an opening in the ceilings above the landing. It is dug so deep that one can access groundwater at that level, accounting for seasonal fluctuations in water level due to rainfall over the years. As the direct sunlight does not touch landings except at noon, the atmosphere inside the well is six degrees cooler than the outside. A unique feature of this stepwell is that from the first story level, three staircases lead to the bottom water level of the well.
A stepwell is called a Vav in the Gujarati language. The vav is a remarkable example of Indo-Islamic architecture and design. Mythological scenes carve the walls along with everyday scenes of women churning buttermilk, dancers accompanied by musicians, women adorning themselves, and a king sitting on a stool. The upper floors are carved by elephants which are 3 inches in size, each of different designs. The notable feature of the great monument is Navagraha at the end of the well. It is believed that Navagraha protects the historical site from evil spirits. It has three entrance stairs. A classical blend of Islamic floral, geometric designs, Hindu, and Jain icons and symbols make the stepwell remarkable.
The stepwell is open on all the days, and to enjoy the exciting play of light on the interiors of the stepwell. It is advisable to plan one's visit so that the spectator is underground in the stepwell when the sun is up. The weather during October and March is quite pleasant in Ahmedabad and conducive for visiting the stepwell.
Plan and Section of Adalaj Stepwell (Image Source)
