Rani Ki Vav, commonly known as the Queen’s Stepwell, is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site that highlights ancient India’s architectural talent. The stepwell is termed as a Vav in Gujarati and Marwari languages. Queen’s Stepwell, with its elaborate carvings, enormous scale, and historical significance, is a monument to the country’s rich tradition and artistic prowess.
How to reach Rani Ki Vav?
Address: Rani Ki Vav, Mohan Nagar Society, Mohan Nagar Society, Patan, Gujarat 384265
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: 35 INR for Indian Adults. 550 INR for foreigners. Children under the age of 15 are admitted for free.
The Queen’s stepwell is in Gujarat’s Patan district. You can get to the location by using the following options.
By flight: The nearest airport to Patan is Ahmedabad airport (AMD), which is 123 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a bus or a cab.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Mehsana, which is 55 kilometers away from the stepwell. You can reach Patan via bus or cab from Mehsana. It takes around an hour to get to Patan.
By Road: Patan is a popular one-day excursion location from Ahmedabad, which is 127 kilometers distant. There are several buses and rented vehicles that go between Ahmedabad and Patan.
Historical Significance
Rani Ki Vav was commissioned in the 11th century CE by Queen Udayamati in honour of her husband King Bhimdev I. He belonged to Solanki Dynasty which is also refered as Chalukya dynasty. It was constructed on the banks of the Saraswati River in Patan. This stepwell performed multiple purposes, the most essential of which was to store water, but it also had cultural and spiritual significance.
This seven-story stepwell was built in the renowned Maru-Gurjara architectural style during the Solanki period. Later, it also included elements of the Nagara, Maratha, and Marwari architectural styles. The stepwell took years of dedicated craftsmanship to finish, with seasoned artisans and sculptors working carefully to create the magnificent structure.
The entire structure was inundated by floodwaters. And subsequently, in the 1980s, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) discovered it during excavation in very fine shape. Rani Ki Vav was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, assuring its preservation for future generations. This hidden jewel has been brought back into the spotlight because of restoration and conservation initiatives, attracting people from all over the world.
Featured on Indian100₹ currency note
Many historical sites are featured on the back side of Indian currency notes. Konark Sun Temple on 10₹ note, Ellora caves on 20₹, Hampi Chariot on 50₹, Sanchi Stupa on 200₹, Red fort on 500₹. Rani Ki Vav is featured on the back side of 100₹ note.
Rani Ki Vav: Seven-Story Architectural Marvel
This Seven-Storey (inverted) stepwell, which descends 100 feet below the surface, is a work of art in architecture. The stepwell’s massive scale is astounding, with over 800 beautifully carved figures and more than 3,500 primary sculptures along its walls.
Each level of the stepwell is a gorgeous feast for the eyes. The elaborate carvings portray Hindu mythological scenarios, such as gods, goddesses, celestial beings, and religious storylines. The sculptures’ detailing is flawless, capturing the intricacies of expressions, attire, and jewelry with astounding perfection.
The representation of the Dashavataras, Lord Vishnu’s 10 incarnations, on the lower floors is the most notable element. These sculptures not only display artistic brilliance, but they also offer as a valuable historical resource for studying the evolution of Indian sculpture.
Specialty and Cultural Significance
Rani Ki Vav is not only an architectural marvel, but also a symbol of ancient India’s cultural and spiritual beliefs. It served a crucial role in the region’s water management and conservation as a stepwell, offering relief to travelers and locals during the hot summers.
Stepwells were usually rest stops for tradesmen travelling from the Middle East. More traders would travel for business, which would gradually strengthen the region’s economy. Many such step wells may be seen in Gujarat as well as in Rajasthan.
How was our experience at Rani Ki Vav?
We went to Rani Ki Vav in December of 2021. The Tourism Department of India organised a FAM trip to Gujarat for us. We were taken to several historical sites in the area, including Hatkeshwar Temple, Patan Patola Museum, and Modhera Sun Temple.
We spent around 30 minutes admiring the stepwell and were taken aback by its beauty. It’s amazing that a 1000-year-old construction is still standing strong today. It is a historical, cultural, and religious treasure trove, tempting travelers to discover its secret depths. Add this location to your itinerary whenever you visit Gujarat.
Also Read: UNESCO World Heritage Sites we visited.
