Raniji ki Baori Stepwell, Bundi – Timings, Entry Fee, Architecture

Raniji ki Baori Bundi

Vital Information for Visitors

Address:

Raniji Baori Stepwell, Bundi Road, near Adisal Singh Colony, Gayatri Nagar, Bundi, Rajasthan

Open & Close:

10 AM – 4 PM
Open on all days 24X7

Entry Fees:

Indian – INR 50/-
Foreigner – INR 200/-

Duration:

Approx 1 hour

Significance:

Architectural ingenuity, sculptural brilliance and immense utility

Rajasthan, with its arid terrain, boasts an unparalleled heritage of water conservation systems, among which stepwells hold a special place. Among the many notable stepwells of the state, Raniji ki Baori in Bundi stands out as a testament to the architectural and cultural grandeur of the medieval period. It’s a perfect blend of functionality and artistry. Raniji ki Baori or the Queen’s Stepwell, located near the main market area, is easily accessible by road. The baori functioned as a gathering place for the community, especially women, who used it to fetch water and engage in social interactions. The serene ambiance and shaded pavilions made it a popular retreat during the scorching summers. The presence of deity sculptures and religious carvings elevated Raniji ki Baori to a place of worship. It was not just a utilitarian structure but also a spiritual refuge for the local populace.

History: Raniji ki Baori was constructed in 1699 AD during the reign of Rao Raja Anirudh Singh Hada, the ruler of Bundi. The stepwell was commissioned by his queen, Rani Nathavati Ji Solanki, to provide a reliable water source for the people of the region. Queen Nathavati is credited to build 21 ‘baoris’ in Bundi. Raniji ki Baori is the largest and architecturally most significant among them. The arid climate of Rajasthan often necessitated innovative solutions to water scarcity, and stepwells like Raniji ki Baori were a result of this ingenuity. Apart from serving as a water reservoir, the stepwell became a social and cultural hub for the local community. Over the centuries, it has also gained religious significance due to its intricately carved images of deities. The patronage of Queen Nathavati Ji exemplifies the influence of royal women in Rajasthan, who often undertook philanthropic and architectural projects.

Architecture: Raniji ki Baori is renowned for its stunning architectural design, which blends functionality with exquisite artistry. It is one of the finest examples of stepwell construction in Rajasthan and reflects the skilled craftsmanship of the artisans of Bundi. It is a multistoreyed structure with places of worship on each floor. The stepwell is 78 meters long, 12 meters wide and 46 meters deep, making it one of the largest in Bundi. It has over 200 steps that lead down to the water level. Its rectangular design incorporates multiple levels of steps leading down to the water. Each level is adorned with pillared pavilions, giving the structure a majestic appearance. The baori’s vertical depth is complemented by its horizontal expanse, ensuring maximum storage capacity while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing symmetry.

The entrance to Raniji ki Baori is grand, marked by a highly ornate arched gate. All the archways or ‘toran dwar’ (तोरण द्वार) are embellished with ogee (S-shaped) brackets. The gateway is flanked by elaborately carved pillars and adorned with detailed relief work depicting floral motifs, geometric patterns, and religious themes. One of the most remarkable features of Raniji ki Baori is its intricate carvings. The walls of the stepwell are adorned with sculptures of Hindu deities, celestial nymphs (apsaras), and religious figures. Each carving is a masterpiece, reflecting the religious and cultural ethos of the time. The stepwell also features detailed panels depicting scenes from epic tales like the Ramayan and Mahabharat. Particularly noteworthy are the sculptures of Lord Vishnu in his Dashavatar (ten incarnations), which are found along the walls.

The stepwell is supported by multiple levels of pillared pavilions. The niches in the walls, often used to place oil lamps, create a mesmerizing play of light and shadow, especially during sunrise and sunset. The use of sandstone in the construction ensures the durability of the structure, and its earthy tones blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.

Conservation: Raniji ki Baori suffered from neglect during periods of political instability and changing priorities. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has undertaken initiatives to maintain the stepwell and prevent further deterioration. Restoration work focuses on cleaning the water reservoir, repairing damaged carvings, and ensuring structural stability.

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Raniji ki Baori is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant. Summers in Bundi can be scorching, making it less conducive for exploration.

Raniji ki Baori is more than just a stepwell; it is a symbol of Rajasthan’s ingenuity in water conservation, a masterpiece of medieval architecture, and a reminder of the benevolence of its royal patrons. This marvel, with its intricate carvings and functional brilliance, continues to inspire awe among historians, architects, and travelers alike. A visit to Raniji ki Baori offers a glimpse into Bundi’s glorious past and serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving our heritage for future generations.