Panna Meena ka Kund, Jaipur

Panna Meena ka Kund, located near Amer Fort in Jaipur, Rajasthan, is a historic stepwell dating back to the 16th century during the reign of Maharaja Jai Singh I. Originally designed as a water conservation structure, it also served as a social gathering place for local communities. This stepwell, about 12 metres wide and 20 metres deep, is famous for its geometric symmetry and fine stone work. Its multi-story staircase descends in a zigzag pattern, reflecting Rajput and Mughal architectural influences. The combination of functional engineering and beautiful design makes it a key cultural and tourist landmark in Jaipur.

Panna Meena Kund is an example of the art of Rajput architecture and a slight influence of Mughal style. Built in the 16th century during the reign of Maharaja Jai Singh I under the supervision of local artisans, this stepwell showcases a practical yet decorative method of water management. The structure is carefully constructed from sandstone blocks, with terraced roofs arranged in perfect geometric symmetry, allowing for easy access to water even during dry seasons. The key elements include:

• Main stepped well with multiple descending levels
• Four prominent landings forming a square layout
• Stone balustrades along staircases
• Small niches and alcoves on each level
• Courtyard-like open spaces at the top for social gatherings
• Water storage tank at the bottom

• The stepwell’s zigzag staircase design prevents monotony and enhances visual rhythm, a hallmark of Rajput architecture.
• When you start going to the depth of Chand Baori, then you will start feeling the decrease in temperature by 5-6 degrees. It is said that during the monsoon, this stepwell gets filled with water till the top.
• The climate of this area is dry and there was a lot of water scarcity at that time, only then such a deep stepwell was constructed. The water stored in this well used to meet the needs of the local people for a year.
• Bavadi is a concept that originated entirely from the Indian subcontinent and was the most famous supply of water in ancient times. These are often man-made pools of water that can be reached by descending a sequence of stairs.
• People can acquire and sit on more than one level of the ladder, and exchange verbal exchanges. Though Panna Meena ka Kund has ceased to be a source of water now, it still serves as an area for locals and tourists to chit-chat and gather.
• During summer and monsoon, you can see the little boys of the neighborhood competing with each other by jumping from the bank of the pool above into the pool.

📅 Last update: 2026-01-26 || ✍ Author: Sandhya Chauhan

Meet Sandhya, exploring India with curiosity and wonder. She shares info and tips in simple language, inviting you to join the journey. She is graduated in tourism and writes about the places of India.