The stepwells of Bundi on foot
Water was always scarce in Rajasthan, and Bundi's rulers and nobles built more than 50 stepwells and tanks to store it. Some were functional, others grand works of patronage, with carved galleries and shrines. Many still hold water after the monsoon, and some are in daily use.
Raniji ki Baori was built in 1699 by Rani Nathavati, a queen of Bundi. It descends about 46 m through carved arches and pillars, with elephants and images of the gods. From there, we walk to Nagar Sagar Kund, a pair of stepped tanks, and other smaller baoris tucked into the lanes, many unknown to most visitors.
The walk is flat and easy, about 2 km through the old town. The light is best in the morning or late afternoon. In the monsoon and just after, water levels are high and the stepwells look as they were meant to. Some are fenced for safety; your guide knows which can be entered.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How many stepwells are there in Bundi
Bundi is often called the city of stepwells, with more than 50 baoris and kunds in and around the town. Raniji ki Baori is the most famous, but many smaller ones are worth finding with a guide. Our walk through the old town is flat and easy, about 2 km, from Raniji ki Baori to Nagar Sagar Kund.
Who built Raniji ki Baori
Rani Nathavati, a queen of Bundi, built it in 1699. It is about 46 m deep, with carved pillars, arches and elephant sculptures. It is one of the finest stepwells in Rajasthan. We start our stepwell walk here, ideally in the morning or late afternoon, then continue through the lanes to Nagar Sagar Kund and smaller baoris most visitors miss.
When is the best time to see Bundi's stepwells
After the monsoon, from late August to November, when water levels are high. Mornings and late afternoons give the best light. In dry months, the deeper levels are exposed and the structure easier to see. Some stepwells are fenced for safety, and your guide knows which can be entered.
Also in Bundi
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