The Chand Baori in Abhaneri village was built centuries ago to provide water throughout the year to the arid regions of Rajasthan. It was built in the 9th century AD by King Chanda of the Nikumbh dynasty. One of the largest stepwells in the world, Chand Baori was built to conserve water and provide relief from the scorching heat.
It was a community gathering place for the locals as well as the royals. Chand Baori is an architectural wonder with 3,500 perfectly symmetrical, narrow steps. It is this exquisite geometry that draws local and international visitors every year. The play of light and shadow on the steps makes the structure so attractive. The stepwell gets narrower as you move down.
Double staircases on three sides take you down to the water surface. On the fourth side is a three-storey pavilion with intricately carved jharokhas (windows), galleries and balconies for the royal family to sit. Adjacent to Chand Baori is the Harshat Mata Temple. This 9th-10th century temple is dedicated to Harshat Mata, who is believed to be the goddess of happiness and joy for the entire village.
