Stepwells of Delhi

The baolis, or stepwells, of Delhi were built by its early rulers as secular structures that drew water from the ground in the dry season and harvested rain water during the monsoon for use by the community at large. Text and photographs

Steps leading to Agrasen ki baoli reveal its magnitude and grandeur.

At a baoli in Mehrauli, the entrance is marked by an archway.

In the ruins of Mehrauli, an archway that leads to Rajon ki baoli.

The view from the inside of a baoli.

A colonnaded arcade on the top tier of Rajon ki baoli in Mehrauli.

Arches on the steps leading to the well in Agrasen ki baoli.

A 'dalan', or colonnaded verandah, in Rajon ki baoli.

Mehrab in Mehrauli. Baolis served as centres of prayer, meditation and interaction.

Rajon ki baoli, a view from the top.

Calligraphy medallions in the Rajon ki baoli complex.

Deep inside a baoli. The depth and design of these baolis, all of which are in disrepair, were eminently suited to prevent evaporation in the searing summer heat of the northern plains.

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At Gandhak ki baoli in Mehrauli.