Description
Abhaneri is a village in the Dausa district of the Indian state of Rajasthan. Abhaneri is popular for the Chand Baori step well and Harshat Mata Temple. The village was originally named Abha Nagri, ("City of Brightness"), but over time the name evolved to its present form. Abhaneri is now in ruins, but attracts tourists from across the globe.
Chand Baori is one of the oldest and most attractive landmarks in Rajasthan. It was built by King Chanda of the Nikumbh dynasty between 800 CE and 900 CE and was dedicated to Hashat Mata, Goddess of Joy and Happiness upon completion. The state of Rajasthan is extremely arid, and the design and final structure of Chand Baori was intended to conserve as much water as possible. At the bottom of the well, the air remains 5-6 degrees cooler than at the surface, and Chand Baori was used as a community gathering place for locals during periods of intense heat. One side of the well has a pavilion and resting room for the royals. Chand Baori one was built during the 8th and 9th centuries and has 3,500 narrow steps arranged in perfect symmetry, which descend 20m to the bottom of the well. About 64 feet deep, it is India's largest and deepest stepwells with 13 floors and was built in the 9th century for water harvesting.
Centuries ago, the stepwells were built in the arid zones of Rajasthan to provide water all year through. The baori has a precise geometrical pattern, hard to find in this age.The steps form a magical maze and the consequent play of light and shadow on the structure gives it a captivating look. Descending the stairs on the left, you can see the cavernous baori narrowing towards the bottom, criss-crossed with double flights of steps on three sides to reach the water surface down below.
Bhangarh- The Bhangarh Fort is a 17th Century fort built in the Alwar district of Rajasthan. It was built by one of the Navratans of Akbar's court, Man Singh I for his grandson Madho Singh I. It was named by Madho Singh after his grandfather Man Singh or Bhan Singh. As soon as you enter through the main gate of the ruined fort city, also known as Bhoot Bangla, it gives a chill down your spine. Within the fort, there are temples, palaces, and Havelis. Apart from that, there are also four more gates for the entry to the fort: the Lahori Gate, the Ajmeri Gate, the Phulbari Gate and the Delhi Gate. There are many Hindu temples at the entrance of the gates. The royal palace is located at the extreme end of the limits of the fort.
This abandoned fort is said to be the most haunted place in India, so much so that entry is prohibited after sunset.
Location-Bhangarh and Abhaneri
Duration- Full day
Fee- $60 per person (minimum 2 person required)
Include- Air conditioned car and Lunch
Exclude- Entrances, Beverages, Any personal expenses, tips etc.