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Claim Your Website Now| Adalaj Vav: Archeology in Gujarat |
| About Adalaj Vav: |
| Adalaj Vav is a five-storied step-well located in a small sleepy village named Adalaj, about 15 km from Gandhinagar city. Adalaj Vav was built in 1499.There are about 120 vavs or step-wells spread across the Indian state of Gujarat. The oldest vav is the Rani vav or Queen’s vav, which is located in Patan and dates back to the 11th century AD. However, the vav situated in the small village of Adlaj is the most popular one. The Adlaj vav is in fact a na vav, literally meaning an upside down architecture of a step-well. Built entirely of sandstone, one can enter into this step-well from three sides, which consist of octagonal landings with huge carved colonnades and intricately carved niches. The architecture of this well also shows the influence of the earlier Solanki rulers of Gujarat. Carvings of leafy creepers-typical adornment of Islamic architecture-co-exist with Hindu symbolism. Among the other carvings on the panels are a king sitting on a stool with two bearers, a scene depicting women churning buttermilk, musicians accompanying dancing women apart from abstract representations of various Hindu Gods and Goddesses. One can also see a few Buddhist and Jain influences on some of the pillars and walls.This stupendous structure with its elaborate and heavily ornamented temple-like finish and surrounding structures is a synthesis of various elements-earth, rock and water. On one story is a little Hindu shrine secretly hidden in an obscure corner. The step-well served both ritualistic as well as utilitarian needs. People from the nearby villages used to take water from the well and considered it holy. In the semi arid climate of Gujarat, the cool water from the vav provided a welcome break, particularly in the harsh summer months. Water from the vav was also used for irrigation.Openings in the ceilings above the landing enable light and air to enter the well. However, direct sunlight never reaches the flight of steps or landings except for a brief period at noon as the inner ceilings are arranged to receive the sunlight through these openings. According to a research, there was a total difference of six degrees between the outside and inside of the well, thus making it a veritable air-conditioner.Innumerable strong and exquisitely carved pillars support each story of the vav and each available stone surface is profusely covered with carvings. Each landing has wide space suggesting that people, especially travelers, rested there while on journey. The main attraction of this step-well is the pool of water at the lowest level. Besides this, there is a niche here that houses an ami khumb or a pot that contains the water of life and a kalpa vriksha or a tree of life made out of a single stone slab. These sites attract the villagers on religious and auspicious occasions like marriages, sacred thread ceremonies (a ritual performed by Hindus) etc.In the vicinity of the well are graves of the six masons who were instrumental in erecting it. It is believed when Mohammed Begda asked them if another vav was possible, they replied in the affirmative. This proved to be their undoing and they were instantly put to death. Perhaps that is why the Adlaj step-well stands unrivalled till today. |
| Location info of Adalaj Vav: |
| Address:Adalaj Vav,Ahmedabad,Gujrat,India |
| District: Ahmedabad |
| Nearest City: Gandhinagar |
| Language: Gujarati, Hindi. |
| Best time to visit: Nvember to April |
| Climate/Weather in Adalaj Vav: |
| Summer temperature ranges between the 23°C to 43°C.,Witner temperature ranges from 15°C to 35°C |
| History of Adalaj Vav: |
| Adalaj’s Adalaj Vav is a step well which was constructed by Queen Rudabai. The Vav or the step-well in Adalaj gets its name from the lady patron, Ruda, who was the wife of the Vaghela chief, Virsinh. Adalaj Vav has an inscription written in Sanskrit, which depicts the entire history to its visitors with accurate dates.The legend behind the origin of this step-well is as interesting as its architecture and is shrouded in beauty, romance and tragedy. In AD 1499, the area around Adlaj was known as Dandai Desh and was ruled by Rana Veer Singh of the Vaghela dynasty. Around this time, Mohammed Begda, a Muslim ruler of a neighboring state attacked Dandai Desh and killed Rana Veer Singh. The beauty of the slain king’s widow, Rani Roopba, enamored Mohammed Begda who sent her a proposal of marriage. The heartbroken but determined queen agreed to the proposal on the condition that he complete a five-storied step-well (vav) for her. The Muslim ruler, enticed by the charm of the queen, readily agreed. |
| Interesting things to do in Adalaj Vav: |
| Interesting things to Visit in Adalaj Vav: |
| Sarkhej: Sarkhej is situated about 8 kms. southwest of the city centre and a suburb of Ahmedabad. Sarkhej was once a country retreat of the Muslim rulers. It is known for its Rauza, the fine architectural complex of mosques, palaces, pavilions and tombs, all grouped around a stepped tank. The style shows distinct Hindu influence. By the entrance is the tomb of Sultan Mahmud Begadaa, with geometric jalis casting patterns of light on the floor. Shaikh Ahmed Khattu lived at Sarkhej and built this mosque with a great open space in front of the prayer hall, surrounded by the domes. The Dutch established an indigo factory nearby. Vishala: Vishala is situated about 5 kms. from Ahmedabad. It is purposefully built showpiece of a collection of huts along clay paths which capture the spirit of a traditional Gujarati village. It began as an excellent vegetarian restaurant in 1978 but has grown since to include a museum, live performances of music, dance and puppet shows as well as craftsman at work and an excellent shop. Pots, handloom linens, hand crafted shoes, clothes, brassware or embroidery from Vishala. Here you can sit cross-legged at low tables, eat on green leaves and drink from clay tumblers. The portions are generous and there is a large variety of traditional dishes, breads, chutneys, ending with an Indian sweet and nutty ice-cream.Utensils Museum: The Utensils Museum has an exceptional collection of rare brass and copper utensils, water pots, old betel nut boxes and containers used for temple rituals.Adalaj: Adalaj is situated about 17 kms. north of Ahmedabad. The baoli or step-well at Adalaj Vav is one of the finest step well in India. Queen Rudabai built this well in 1499 to provide the traveller with a cool and pleasant refuge from the summer heat. A long flight of steps descends to the water. It has three entrances leading to a huge platform that rests on 16 pillars, with corners marked by shrines. Ornately carved pillars and cross beams create open spaces and four storey that are quite striking. The octagonal well is five storey deep. The baoli is decorated with exquisite stone carvings, subjects range from eroticism to buttermilk.Dada Hari Vav: Dada Hari Vav was built in 1499 by a woman of Sultan Begara’s harem. This wav has steps to lower platforms, terminating at a small, octagonal well. The depths are cool, even on a hottest day. Neglected and often borne dry, it is a fascinating place. The best time to visit and photograph the well is between 10 to 11 AM (earlier in the summers Adalaj Vav, Ahmedabad and later in the winters), at other times the sun does not penetrate to the various levels.Gujarat Science City: The Gujarat Science City is an educational theme park situated on the road to Gandhinagar. The features of this science city are an IMAX theatre, the interactive Hall of Science, a 30 seater Thrill Ride Simulator, a spot lit Musical fountain and an Energy Education Park.Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary: Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is situated about 60 kms. south west of Ahmedabad. Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is the famous bird sanctuary in Gujarat. The Nalsarovar lake is a seasonal lake spread over an area of 115 square km. This extensive lake is surrounded by the iron flat plains and is known for its water birds. About thousand species of birds like flamingoes and other water birds migrate in the Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary during winter. Various variety of birds like kingfishers, egrets, darters, storks, cormorants, jacanas, moorhens, coots, grebes and ducks can be seen in this sanctuary. The best time to visit this sanctuary is in the months of December and January.Jama Masjid: Jama MasjidOne of masterpieces of India’s architectural wonders the Jama Masjid is one of the most beautiful mosques in the western India . Built during the period of Sultan Ahmed Shah in 1423 the mosque combines both the Hindu Muslim style of architecture in a harmonious way. This fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture of the Ahmed Shahi style was built over a period of 13 years. Built in yellow sandstone standing on 260 pillars supporting 15 domes at varying elevations it gives a majestic look to the onlookers as well as the surrounding around.Sidi Bashir’s Mosque: Siddi Bashir Mosque (Shaking Minarets) ahmedabad, Siddi Bashir Jhulta MinarOne of the most popular places to visit in Ahmedabad is the mosque of Sidi Bashir. What makes the monument one of the architecture wonders is the presence of shaking minarets in its structure. What is amazing about these minarets is that if one is shaken the others vibrate in symphony too. Thus it is also called Jhulta Minar . It was first seen and experienced in the 19th century by Monier M Williams, a European Sanskrit scholar. After that it became a place, which generated wonders among many to the extent that the British had to dismantle one of its minaret to understand its secret. But after the Qutab Minar tragedy during which many were crushed in a stampede while climbing on its narrow steps, climbing up the Minaret to feel the ‘shaking’ has been barred by the authorities to avoid any such tragedies.Kankaria Lake: Kankaria Lake is ahmedabad, Kankaria Lake IndiaAfter a hectic day of work Kankaria lake is the perfect place to unwind oneself in Ahmedabad. It provides a cool and beautiful ambience to the people.Situated in the southeast part of the city it is an artificial lake made during the time of Sultan Qutubub-Din in 1951.It is polygonal in shape with approximately 34 sides. It has an island garden, called Nagina wadi and a palace which was frequented by Emperor Jehangir and Empress Nur Jahan in their days. The lake also attracts good birdlife.City Museum: The City Museum, Ahmedabad is in the Sanskar Kendra building which is one of the finest museums in Ahmedabad. Located in the heart of the city, the building was built by the well known French architect Le Corbusier. The City Museum attracts tourists from all over. Indianholiday.com offers online information on City Museum, Ahmedabad and other tourist attractions of Gujarat and other parts of India.Dada Hari Vav: The Dada Hari Vav, Ahmedabad is a uniquely designed octagonal shaped step well in Ahmedabad. The interiors and the underground of the Dada Hari Vav, Ahmedabad has been intricately designed. Each year tourists from all over are allured to visit this unique step well which is one of the major tourist attractions of Gujarat. One of the beautiful monuments in Ahmedabad every aspect of the Dada Hari Vav is beautifully decorated. From sculptured floral patterns to the shapely figurines everything is intricately done in order to beautify the Dada Hari Vav, Ahmedabad.Mata Bhavani’s Well: Mata Bhavani’s Well, Ahmedabad is one of the important tourist attractions of Ahmedabad. The Mata Bhavani’s Well, Ahmedabad is one of the longest wells that ends projecting towards and east and west. On the eastern side there is an entrance. The staircase to the Mata Bhavani’s Well, Ahmedabad descends to the east end and there is a circular shaft. In the earlier times, water in the shaft was brought up by the cows and used for irrigation.Hathee Singh Temple: The Hathee Singh Temple is an architectural marvel in white marble. Hathee Singh Jain temple is a double storied construction that has a dome on the front side. The other two sides of the temple consist of lavishly carved out galleries. The Hathee Singh Temple Ahmedabad is one of the most beautiful Jain temples in Ahmedabad Gujarat and follows the typical Jain temple architecture commonly to be seen in the temples of Dilwara and Ranakpur in the neighboring state of Rajasthan.Swami Narayan Temple: Situated at Kalupur in Ahmedabad, the Swami Narayan Temple, Ahmedabad is one of the most important temples in Gujarat and world over. Considered to be one of the famous holy places in Ahmedabad, the Swami Narayan Temple, Ahmedabad is a major attraction for pilgrims, devotees and tourists from all over. Indianholiday.com offers online information on Swami Narayan Temple, Ahmedabad and other tourist attractions of Gujarat and other parts of India. |
| Mobile range info: |
| How to reach Adalaj Vav? |
| Nearest Railway Station:Ahmedabad at(19km), railway station |
| Nearest Airport:Ahmedabad at(19km),airport |
| Road Transport:Baroda (Vadodara) 113 km, Mt. Abu 228 km, Udaipur 252 km, Jaipur 657 km, Bombay 545 km, Delhi 1076 km, Gandhinagar 25 km, Modhera 110 km, Nal Sarovar 71 km and Lothal 80 km. |
| Nearest Visiting places from Adalaj Vav: |
| Akshardham: Akshardham is a unique cultural complex built in Gandhinagar in memory of Lord Swaminarayan. Inspired by H. D. Pramukh Swami Maharaj, Akshardham is a miracle worked by the service and devotion of thousands of volunteers. It is an intricately carved, majestic monument of 6000 tons of pink sand stone. The entire monument was built without the use of steel. Besides a 7 feet gold leafed idol of Lord Swaminarayan and his holy relics, there are three exhibitions on Indian Culture with light and sound shows, a multimedia show and an animatronic show. Games, rides and food refreshments are other attractions of Akshardham.Lakshmi Vilas Palace: Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara is one of the famous monuments in Vadodara that is high on tourist value. People visiting Vadodara make it a point to visit Laxmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara. A wonderful exemplification of the Indo-Sarcenic architectural style, the palace is a majestic structure that warrants a special visit if you wish to marvel at the detailed and exquisite work from the close quarters. Indianholiday.com is your indispensable e-travelogue that provides you with all you needed to know on Vadodara’s Laxmi Vilas Palace.Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum: Vadodara Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum houses the remarkably huge number of works of art of the royal family. Maharaja Sir Sayajirao Gaekwad III during his several visits out of India collected works of art and stored them here. The most fascinating collection of this museum however comprises of host of paintings by European and Indian artists. In this collection paintings of Raja Ravi Varma who was specially deployed by the then Maharaja of Baroda catches the limelight. His collections essentially comprises of the portraits of the Royal family and paintings based on Hindu mythology. Hindu mythology was the forte of Raja Ravi Varma.Gandhi Ashram: After his return from South Africa, Gandhiji decided to settle in Ahmedabad. It was for four reasons that he selected this place as the venue for his ashram- In his own words “being a Gujarati, I’ll serve my country best through the use of Gujarati language. As Ahmedabad was the centre of handloom in early days, the work of spinning wheel (charkha) could be done in a better way, I believed. Being the capital of Gujarat its wealthy persons will also make larger contribution, I hoped.”Sarita Udyan: Sarita Udyan is also a favorite picnic spot among the residents of Gandhinagar. People flock in large numbers with their friends and families and enjoy doing picnic in the Sarita Udyan in Gandhinagar. The location on the undulating land beside the river Sabarmati gives Sarita Udyan of Gandhinagar an added prominence. The Sarita Udyan at Gandhinagar in Gujarat in India is also full of recreational and entertainment facilities. This feature of the Sarita Udyan attracts people of all ages and all round the year.Hanumanji Temple: Hanumanji Temple in Gandhinagar is visited by thousands of devotee everyday. The idol of Lord Hanuman in the Hanumanji Temple of Gandhinagar is seen bearing a mountain on his shoulder. The idol is saffron in color. As per the Indian mythologies and tradition it is said that regular visitors to the temple gains special favor of Lord Hanuman. The temple is visited by thousands of visitors every Tuesday and Saturday. As per the Vedas, Hanuman protects human beings from the wrath of the planet Saturn. People as per the astrology if has the position of Saturn ill placed in their horoscope should specially visit the Hanumanji Temple.Ishwariya Temple: The location of the temple on the outskirts and on the hilly terrain makes it a favorable spot for an outing even for the locales. The Ishwariya Temple at Rajkot in Gujarat in India is visited by many people with a dual purpose, one that attracts the people to the Ishwariya Temple, Rajkot is the spiritual aspect of the temple and second is the location which makes it a favorite outing spot. People of Rajkot often visit the spot during the winter season to have a picnic with friends and families. The hilly terrain and the small pond located near by adds to the beauty and charm of the place. A small fair is also organized here annually.Lothal: Dockyard in Lothal is the oldest in the world, and is admired for its extended nature, scientific positioning and constructional skill. It is a wonder that people during the times of Harappan Civilization knew so much about technology.Cemeteries that have been discovered ages back to the period of Dravidians, proto Dravidians, Proto Australoids and Mediterranean etc.Potteries that previously belonged to the Harappan people have been kept inside the museums and so, is a point of great Tourist Attraction in Lothal. Sheltered Harbor that grew rice, cotton and wheat are of primary importance to geologists and historians. Red Wares are often on display and they tell us about the intricate pottery that Harappan people were skilled at creating. Indigenous ceramic goods are also on display.Takhteshwar Temple: Erected over a petite mound looking out on the city, this Takhteshwar Temple has been dedicated to Lord Shiva. One can have a splendid view of the adjoining Gulf of Cambay; it is an important pilgrim spot.Gandhi Smriti Museum: Gandhi Smriti Museum or Gandhi Memorial with its vast collection of pictures and memorabilia related to Gandhi throws light on Indian Independence struggle as well. It is an important Tourist Attraction at Bhavnagar. |
| Nearest Petrol Pump nearby Adalaj Vav: |
| Petrol Pump:Sector 11,gandhinagar,Gujarat,IndiaIBP Petrol Pump:Gandhinagar,Gujarat,India |
| Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation nearby Adalaj Vav: |
| Hotel Vice President:C G Road,Narrangpura,Ahmedabad,Gujarat,Inidia,Ph:079 26575005 The Metropole Hotel:Subhash Bridge,Ahmedabad,Gujarat,India,Ph:079 3013 0200 |
| Things to carry for Adalaj Vav: |
| Tips & Suggestions for Adalaj Vav: |
| Help Line/Phone Number of Adalaj Vav: |
| Police Station: |
| Nearest Hospital: sterling hospital:Ahmedabad,Gujarat,India Rajasthan hospital:Ahmedabad,Gujarat,India |
| Society/Community Phone Number |
| Links:www.ahmedabad.org.uk |
