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Last updated: 26 June, 2023
Expert travel writer: Amar Grover

Constructed by King Chanda in the 8th or 9th century, this baori, or ‘step well’, is a superb example of medieval engineering designed to ‘harvest’ water.

With around 3,500 steps, and thirteen ‘floors’ with decoratively carved balconies, the well’s geometry is both beautiful and functional – users could access water easily as levels fell with the approach of summer and even seek relief from the sun and heat.

Once fairly common across Rajasthan and Gujarat (though rarely as elaborate), many ancient step wells have fallen into disrepair – if not obscurity – and few remain in use today.

Though unused, Abhaneri (also known as Chand Baori) remains in particularly good condition and is one of the best examples of a step well in the whole of India; a bewitching combination of awe-inspiring architecture and medieval ingenuity.

Logistics

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

95km east of Jaipur and 150km west of Agra, Abhaneri lies about 10km north of National Highway 21, the main road linking those two cities.

Most visitors pause here en route to Jaipur or Agra and many will have their own transport (typically a tour bus or chaffeured car). Public buses stop here too and there’s always onward local transport – a shared ‘jeep taxi’ or auto-rickshaw or village bus – for the last stage though it will be rather more earthy than comfortable.

When to do it

The site is open all year round, seven days a week.

It’s best visited between September and April when temperatures are manageable.

Who to go with: organised tours

4

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Guided Fatehpur Sikri & Abhaneri Tour From Agra To Jaipur By Car

Agra

Guided Fatehpur Sikri & Abhaneri Tour From Agra To Jaipur By Car
Make the journey from Agra to Jaipur by air-conditioned minivan, visiting two of Northern India's jewels along the way. Just west of Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a small World Heritage-listed city founded by a 16th-century Mughal emperor. It has also been declared UNESCO World's Heritage Site. Continuing to Abhaneri, marvel at one of the most beautiful step well in India, known for its geometrical architecture and design. This is a unique spot for photography lovers, and something you won't see if you travel by air or train.

Price: $71

Min age: 0

Rating 4.70 / 5 [17 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Guided Tour to Haunted Bhangarh & Abhaneri Step Well From Jaipur

Jaipur

Guided Tour to Haunted Bhangarh & Abhaneri Step Well From Jaipur
On this 10-hour historical adventure from Jaipur, visit the village of Bhangarh, known for its old ruins and home to Bhangarh Fort, which is believed to be haunted (some say the most haunted place in India). You'll also visit the village of Abhaneri to see the Chand Baori stepwell, a fascinating landmark known for its geometric design. Some Highlights are: 1. Hotel Pick Up and Drop Off 2. Fully Guided Tour 3. Monument Entry Fee & Lunch (Optional)

Price: $73

Min age: 0

Rating 4.75 / 5 [16 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Jaipur Amer Fort, Jal Mahal & Stepwell Private Half-Day Tour

Jaipur

Jaipur Amer Fort, Jal Mahal & Stepwell Private Half-Day Tour
Enjoy a private heritage tour that captures the most important sites of Jaipur. Beat the tourists to get an aerial view of Jaipur from Jaigarh. Catch the most important highlights of Jaipur's history and royalty on a trip to Amer Fort and Jal Mahal.

Price: $39

Min age: 0

Rating 4.73 / 5 [15 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Private Day Trip to Abhaneri Chand Baori Stepwell from Jaipur

Jaipur

Private Day Trip to Abhaneri Chand Baori Stepwell from Jaipur
Begin your day with a private pick-up at 9:00 AM from your hotel in Jaipur. Your driver will be waiting for you in an air-conditioned vehicle to take you on a full-day tour of Abhaneri, with same-day return. Explore the charming town of Abhaneri, believed to have been founded by King Raja Chand. Marvel at the ancient step wells known as the Chand Baori, which were used to store water during droughts. Admire the intricate architecture and learn about their historical significance. Next, visit Harshat Mata temple dedicated to Goddess Surya's wife and renowned for its stunning sculptures and carvings. Then head over to the famous Monkey Temple where you can interact with playful monkeys while learning about Hindu mythology. After a fulfilling day of sightseeing and cultural immersion, your driver will safely bring you back to your hotel in Jaipur.

Price: $60

Min age: 0

Rating 4.8 / 5 [10 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Destination guides

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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

India’s Golden Triangle

India’s cultural essence combined with its most iconic sights and greatest bucket list experiences, all distilled into one compact, diverse and vibrant region.

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Rajasthan’s state capital is a compelling blend of huge hillside forts, extravagant palaces, bustling bazaars, memorable heritage hotels and almost comically thronged streets.