The Ancient Stepwells of Gujarat

Gujarat is not on most first time travelers' itineraries, which is a shame because it is home to some of the most incredible architecture I have seen in India. I am talking about the stepwells. These are ancient structures that were built to store water, but they are so much more than that. They are architectural marvels, with intricate carvings, multiple levels, and a cool, serene atmosphere. The Rani ki Vav in Patan is the most famous. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it is stunning. You walk down through seven levels of stone pillars and carvings depicting Hindu deities and mythological scenes. It feels like stepping into another world. The stepwell was buried under silt for centuries and was only excavated in the 1980s, so it is in remarkably good condition. Another stepwell I visited was Adalaj Stepwell, just outside Ahmedabad. It is smaller but equally beautiful, and it is free to enter. The carvings on the walls include scenes from daily life, as well as religious motifs. I spent hours just wandering around, marveling at the craftsmanship. If you are interested in architecture, history, or just want to see something off the beaten path, Gujarat's stepwells are a must visit.