Agrasen ki Baoli

A baoli is a well reached by descending steps, built so water remains accessible as the level drops through the dry season, and Agrasen ki Baoli is the most dramatic surviving example in central Delhi: sixty metres long and fifteen wide, with a hundred and eight steps descending in three arcaded storeys between high rubble and stone walls, ending at a well shaft. Its origin is attributed to the legendary king Agrasen with rebuilding in the fourteenth century. It sits enclosed by office towers on Hailey Road, invisible until you reach the entrance, which is much of its effect. The lower levels are usually dry.

What you actually see

• The descending steps - a hundred and eight steps in three arcaded storeys.
• The arcaded walls - niches and chambers along the flanks.
• The well shaft - the circular shaft at the deepest end.
• The city above - office towers visible over the rim.

When to go

October to March; the stone holds heat badly in summer. Early morning is quiet, though the light for photographs is better mid-morning when the sun reaches down the steps.

Honest expectations

The lower steps are usually closed off and often hold stagnant water and pigeons. It is small and busy with photographers and film crews. There is no interpretation on site.

Nearby

Connaught Place lies west; Jantar Mantar is southwest.