One of the hidden gems of Delhi, Ugrasen ki Baoli (Agrasen ki Baoli) is located in the Hailey Road near Connaught Place, a short walk from Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. Baoli is the words for step well which was used in Gujrat and Rajasthan in olden days. Baolis are the earliest form of stepwells and reservoir dating back as far as Indus Valley Civilization. Baoli’s played an important part in the sustenance of locality and also held significant importance. Ugrasen ki Baoli was once known as a citadel of peace. The baoli is shaded by a massive neem tree from the side where it has no roof.

The Urgrasen ki Baoli is one of its kinds in Delhi. The structures like this – there are a few in Delhi itself and one of the largest is located in Rajasthan near Jaipur – were characterized by steps leading deep down where the actual well was located. The location of the well in the deeper recesses below the ground level ensured that the water was cool for the purpose of drinking. Ugrasen ki baoli is a wonderful example of the stepped wells constructed during the past but continues to remain neglected and uncared for.

The visible part of this baoli consists of three levels and there are a total of 103 steps leading down to the actual well. Is level is lined up with arched niches. The way to the well in Ugrasen ki Baoli is locked but one can climb down to it. It’s one of the most tranquil sites in stark comparison to the cacophony of the traffic and crowd in the vicinity. The structure and steps are made up of stone which is still intact. As soon as you step inside the structure, you will feel a sudden drop in temperature.

Thanks to its lesser popularity among the masses, Agrasen ki Baoli is never crowded. It’s a great place to sit in silence and savor the calm permeating inside. Tourists seldom come here and travelers are also rare which lets you get the most out of this hidden jewel in Delhi. It’s not a place where you can spend hours but it is good for spending few quality hours. It’s a place where you can go alone or with a few friends. Agrasen ki Baoli does offer good opportunity for photography and reflection. It is a recommended site to visit if you are looking for tranquility amidst the din of Connaught Place.

Agrasen ki Baoli - Arches inside the stepwell structure
Silhoutte - Agrasen ki Baoli near Connaught Place, Delhi