History, significance and Architecture of finest stepwell of India, Rani Ki Vav, Patan, Gujarat
Patan, the historical town of Gujarat was the capital between 8th to 14th centuries. Thus ruins of excellent structures of temples, tomb, wells and Tanks are found here in heritage city of Gujarat. The Rani ki Vav is such monument and world heritage site declared by UNESCO situated on bank of River Sarswati. Lots of Stepwells, deep structure with steps leading down to water level are found in this region of Gujarat. Construction of Vavs in Gujarat were started with simple structure and going onwords evolve as excellent art work. They sites were not just used as water collection and socializing but also holds spiritual significance.
Rani ki Vav of Patan is believed to be largest stepwell of Gujarat and stands as sign of Patan’s glory of that time. Rani Udayamati commissioned this step well in 1063 in memory of her husband King Bhimdev of Solanki dynasty as symbol of love and integral water storage system for kingdom. The stepwell has seven levels of stairs with sculpted panels on each tier with more than 800 sculpture which includes ten incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Mahisasur Mardini, Parvati and other celestials being like Apsara, Nagkanya etc. The excellent architecture of vav represent the glory of ornamental work and art of solanki dynasty. This stepwell was flooded by the nearby Saraswati river and silted over until 1960, when it was excavated by the Archaeological Survey of India and found carvings in original condition. 23 meter deep stepped storage was coated in mud but this silt became protective line for structure’s glory.
Entry fee for Indians Rs. 5 and for Foreigners 2 USD
