A Hidden gem off the beaten track in Gujarat.
I remember the day vividly. It was one of those afternoons in Gujarat where the sun shone brilliantly overhead, casting sharp shadows on the ground. As a seasoned trip leader with over three decades of exploring India’s treasures, I thought I had seen it all. Yet, here I was, standing at the edge of something that took my breath away: Rani ki Vav. A stepwell—though that word hardly does it justice—that lay hidden in plain sight, waiting for those willing to stray off the well-trodden path of India’s tourism map.
As I descended the steps of this grand subterranean structure, I felt as if I was peeling back layers of history with each step. And with every layer, a story—a forgotten chapter of India’s architectural brilliance—began to unfold before my eyes.
To those who have never heard of Rani ki Vav, let me tell you: this is no ordinary monument. Located in Patan, a city that itself remains relatively obscure in the foreign travel advisor’s lexicon, Rani ki Vav is a UNESCO World Heritage site that defies expectations. I was here to scout new experiences for travelers, to uncover the lesser-known corners of India, and this—this was a discovery that demanded to be shared.
Stepping into Rani ki Vav feels like walking into an underground palace, except the walls aren’t adorned with jewels but stories—thousands of them. From the ground, the stepwell seems like a simple opening into the earth, but as you walk down the well-preserved steps, the scale and intricacy of the structure reveal themselves. Seven levels, each adorned with sculptures so detailed, so alive, that they seem to tell stories of their own. Over 1,500 of them, all intricately carved into the sandstone walls.
For those of you who specialize in offering culturally rich experiences to your clients, Rani ki Vav is a dream come true. Unlike the crowded and well-known landmarks of India, this place offers a deeply immersive experience in solitude. As I stood at the top and gazed down into the stepwell’s depths, I couldn’t help but marvel at the engineering brilliance it took to build this. How could such a colossal structure remain so well-hidden from the world? It’s a place that makes you feel connected to the very roots of Indian history, and yet, it remains largely unfrequented by tourists.
The story of Rani ki Vav is just as fascinating as the stepwell itself. Built in the 11th century by Queen Udayamati in memory of her husband, King Bhimdev I of the Solanki dynasty, the stepwell is not just a marvel of engineering but also an enduring tribute to love and loss. As I walked deeper into its embrace, I could sense the quiet reverence with which each stone was placed. This wasn’t just a utilitarian structure; it was a monument, a mausoleum of sorts, honoring the memory of a king.
Imagine being able to offer your clients not just a visit to an ancient site, but an immersive historical experience. As I stood at the lowest level of the stepwell, surrounded by carvings depicting Hindu deities and mythological stories, I felt as if I had been transported to another time. The presence of Vishnu in his various avatars—the Matsya (fish), Kurma (tortoise), and Vamana (dwarf)—is prominent here, with each sculpture narrating a tale from the epics. The precision and artistry of the carvings speak to the skill of artisans long forgotten by history.
What truly struck me, though, was the fact that this architectural masterpiece was built by a woman. In a time when women’s contributions to society often went unrecognized, Queen Udayamati’s commission of this grand stepwell stands as a testament to her influence and vision. For those of us in the travel industry who are constantly looking for ways to highlight the rich tapestry of India’s history, this story—of a queen, of love, of art and architecture—adds layers of depth to any itinerary.
But Rani ki Vav is not just about its beauty. It’s a feat of engineering that still astounds modern architects and historians alike. Stepwells, or vavs as they are called in Gujarati, were designed to be both functional and decorative. In the arid regions of Gujarat, where water was a precious resource, these stepwells served as both water reservoirs and gathering spots. The deeper you go into Rani ki Vav, the cooler the air becomes—a natural air conditioning system designed over a thousand years ago.
As I stood at the bottom of the stepwell, gazing up at the layers of intricately carved stone, I was reminded of how advanced Indian architecture was in the medieval period. This wasn’t just a well—it was a symbol of the ingenious ways in which our ancestors lived in harmony with their environment. For foreign travelers seeking more than just surface-level tourism, this kind of insight is invaluable. Rani ki Vav isn’t just a site to be seen; it’s a lesson in how ancient cultures solved complex problems with elegance and style.
For many international travelers, India conjures up images of the Taj Mahal, the forts of Rajasthan, and the ghats of Varanasi. And while those are all must-see destinations, Rani ki Vav offers something different—an opportunity to explore India’s hidden gems, far from the bustling tourist routes.
Here’s why I believe this should be on every travel advisor’s radar:
Off the Beaten Path: Most international tourists stick to India’s ‘Golden Triangle’—Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. While those places are undeniably beautiful, they can often feel overrun with visitors. Rani ki Vav, on the other hand, offers a quieter, more contemplative experience. It’s perfect for clients who are looking for something unique and less crowded.
Rich History: The stepwell offers a deep dive into India’s history and architecture. For clients who are interested in the stories behind the monuments they visit, this is a treasure trove. The fact that it was commissioned by a queen adds an extra layer of intrigue, particularly for travelers who appreciate strong female figures in history.
Architectural Wonder: The sheer intricacy of the carvings at Rani ki Vav is enough to captivate even the most jaded traveler. Each sculpture tells a story, and the deeper you go, the more there is to uncover. For those who appreciate art and architecture, this is a place where they can truly immerse themselves in India’s heritage.
Cultural Connection: Unlike many other popular tourist spots, Rani ki Vav remains largely untouched by commercialization. This allows for a more authentic experience, where visitors can connect with the history and culture of the region without distractions. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, offering a respite from the fast pace of modern travel.
As I emerged from the depths of the stepwell, back into the sunlight, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. I’ve led countless tours across India, guiding travelers through the country’s most famous landmarks, but there was something special about Rani ki Vav. Perhaps it was the serenity, the sense of standing in a place that had been forgotten by the world for centuries, only to be rediscovered in recent times. Or perhaps it was the knowledge that I had uncovered something truly unique—an experience that would leave a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to visit.
For those of you sell India to your clients, I urge you to consider Rani ki Vav as part of your offerings. It’s not just another monument; it’s a window into India’s soul, a reminder of the country’s rich heritage, and a testament to the ingenuity of its people. And for your clients, it’s a chance to experience something rare, something extraordinary—an experience that will stay with them long after they’ve returned home.
In a world where travelers are constantly seeking out new and unique experiences, Rani ki Vav is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.
My team and I at Indi Horizons can help you incorporate Rani ki vav perfectly into your clients itinerary.