English: ‘RANI-KI-VAV’ (Queen’s Step Well) was built by a queen in memory of her husband; as opposed to several monuments that have been built by emperors for their beloved wifes! It was built not only as a memorial, but also a place of utility in memory of the 11th-century king Bhimdev Solanki by his beloved wife Queen Udayamati.

Stepwells are a distinctive form of subterranean water resource and storage systems on the Indian subcontinent and have been constructed since the 3rd millennium BC. They evolved over time from what was basically a pit in sandy soil towards elaborate multi-storey works of art and architecture. The first thing that amazes the visitor in Rani ki Vav is the size. It is mammoth, the largest stepwell of its kind and also sumptuously beautiful below ground. From the ground level as we approach the stepwell, it descends suddenly. Designed as an inverted temple with four pavilions on various levels, it highlights the sanctity of water. Rani-ki-Vav impresses not only with its grand architectural structure and technological achievements in water sourcing and structural stability, but also in particular with its sculptural decoration of true artistic mastery.

Most of the sculptures are in devotion to Vishnu, in the forms of Dus-Avatars Kalki, Rama, Krishna, Narasimha, Vamana, Varaha and others representing their return to the world. Nagakanya, Yogini, Apsara showcasing 16 different styles of make-up to look more attractive.