Rani-ki-Vav, Patan

Rani-ki-Vav at Patan is situated at Lat. 230 51 N; Long. 720 7 E. This magnificent step well is said to been constructed by Queen Udayamati wife of King Bhimadeva I (A.D. 1022-1063). This is the highest watermark of Solanki architecture. It is 64 m long and 20 m wide. It was originally constructed of seven stories of which only five are now preserved. The shaft of this step well is 27 m deep. The step is oriented in east-west directions. The step well has long stepped corridor descending down to the underground tank, it is having four compartmental multi-storeyed pillared pavilions with circular draw well at rear end. The corridor walls, pillared pavilions and inner side of well are embellished with fine sculptures. Nearly 400 sculptures have survived out of the original estimated 800 sculptures, which comprise of Hindu gods and goddesses, apsaras and miscellaneous themes.