Agrasen ki Baoli
History and introduction
What is a Baoli, and what is the history behind it? It is a stepwell built in ancient times as a reservoir to store water and keep it cold during hot summers. Agrasen ki Baoli contains 108 steps and is surrounded by three walls of uneven stones and rubble.
Though built for the purpose of storage and convenience, Baolis were more than just a water reservoir. They were vibrant community spaces where people gathered to beat the heat and enjoy each other’s company. The cool breeze from the staircases, thanks to the cold water, made it an ideal spot for leisurely conversations and fun-filled hangouts. While the water may not be pristine today, it’s a testament to the lively history of these Baolis.
There are numerous Baolis throughout Delhi, but this particular Baoli was built by Raja Aggresen and is said to have been renewed by Aggrawals in the 14th century. Though there are many stories and theories about such reservoirs, the history of these Baolis is unclear. These spaces were just a few extensions to forts and other places and had little significance compared to monuments; therefore, the evidence as to who exactly funded the structure got lost in time. However, it still is a pure representation of the architectural geniuses there were back then, even when the art of structuring buildings did not have a name.
Experience
To be honest, Baoli isn’t much of an adventure spot; it is just an ancient reservoir that is fascinating to look at. You can spend some of the quiet time sitting there, but it’s a question of whether that is even possible with the huge crowd present every day. However, it is a good spot for pictures and a great ‘stop along the way’ when you are on your way to explore south Delhi.
Personally, I put this place on my escapade list to satiate my curiosity about a haunted story. There are various demonic and haunted stories that tell the tales of how terrifying this place is and the effects of seeing your reflection in the black water. There is an article on the internet that says back in 2005, a girl jumped into the Baoli on just one glimpse of her reflection in the water, and even after the immediate actions to save her, the authorities failed to find her body. It is a true horror not to find a body in such a limited space, but there is not much concern there, for the tales are mere tales unless they have proof. In my opinion, the bat’s existence in the far corners of the baoli gives it an eerie vibe. Otherwise, I did take a good look into the water, and guess what? I am writing this article right now, which means… spoiler alert, I did not jump. I assure you that you won’t feel the urge to jump either but rather you would want to walk away because the water smells bad.
However, it’s not the water you go there to see but how those uneven stones make up for such a strong base for a structure so deep. These kinds of structures are not built these days because the whole process of binding rubble together goes beyond this age’s architectural engineering, but imagine this Being done back in the 14th century.
The history of such places in Delhi is so intriguing and vast that I am willing to pay to hear all the stories there about them.
Your day out at Agrasen Ki Baoli
If you are planning a day out or a date, then let me help you with the itinerary:
Morning: Walk through the wonders of the beautiful Humayus Tomb. It is a great spot filled with history to explore while enjoying the serenity of morning.
Noon: Indulge in a unique culinary experience at Carnatic Cafe or Imperfecto, both of which offer a delightful blend of flavors. Afterward, visit the Baoli for a refreshing break and some memorable pictures.
Pre-evening: Enjoy the art of the Lodhi district, one of the first art districts in Delhi. It is the prime location for pictures, and admiring Graffiti.
Evening: End the day with a beautiful sunset and ice-cream or hot chocolate at either Sundar Nursery (right in front of Humayu’s tomb) or Safderjung Tomb.
Dinner: Have Dinner at home, you have already spent enough money.
Location (How to reach)
Address: J6GG+C2F, Hailey Road, KG Marg, near Diwanchand Imaging Centre, New Delhi, Delhi 110001
Nearest metro station: Janpath Metro Station, Barakhamba Metro Station, and Mandi House Metro Station are all 10 to 15 minutes of walk away from Agrasen ki Baoli.
The Baoli is in a residential location so you will have to take a turn or just ask any pedestrian and you will easily be directed to the location. The best way to reach there is to just follow the map.
Timings
The best season to visit Baoli is Monsoon or winter ( The months of August, September, October, November, December, January, and February)
| Monday | 9 am–5:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 9 am–5:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 9 am–5:30 pm |
| Thursday | 9 am–5:30 pm |
| Friday | 9 am–5:30 pm |
| Saturday | 9 am–5:30 pm |
| Sunday | 9 am–5:30 pm |
The Baoli remains open through the week and every day of the year unless directed otherwise by the government authorities.
Entry fees (tickets)
There are no entry fees for Agrasen ki Baoli. You can even shoot or click pictures here for free.
However, the total spent from travel to food can vary from 150- 200 for travel, depending upon the location and transport you are coming from (excluding cabs and personal vehicles from consideration). Food can take 700 to 3000 for two depending upon the choice of place for snacks and the portion of snacks.
Conclusion
In all. The place is a must-visit. If you are a true explorer, lack of adventure should not be your reason not to visit a certain place or do a certain activity. However, this place is a goldmine of stories and theories for a true history or architecture enthusiast. If you have visited Delhi and don’t have at least one picture from this place, the visit does not count.
See you in the next episode of Delhi Escapade
~Shivanya