Dada Harir Stepwell (Bai Harir Vav)

The basics

Although Dada Harir lies decidedly off the beaten path, it’s worth visiting to descend the spiral staircase and explore five levels of carved (though weathered) pillars, walls, archways and Halima’s mausoleum, which all feature distinctive Indo-Islamic architecture. The stepwell features on some Ahmedabad Old City heritage and architecture tours, but most travelers visit independently. It’s easy—and customary—to visit the stepwell, mosque, and tomb together. Admission is always free.

Things to know before you go

• The mosque lies on the upper level.

• Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll need to climb the stepwell’s 500-year-old spiral staircase to fully explore the site.

• Dada Harir is typically less crowded than the more famous Adalaj Stepwell.

How to get there

Dada Harir Stepwell is in the Asarwa neighborhood, a mostly residential area north of the city center and east of the Sabarmati River. It's a short drive from the city center and the Old Town, making taxis or auto-rickshaws a good option—the latter should cost no more than 50–100 rupees from most parts of Ahmedabad. Ride shares are available, while buses serve Naroda Road and Hanuman Singh Road nearby.

When to get there

Generally the best time to visit Gujarat is November to February when Ahmedabad experiences pleasant weather with cooler temperatures. The stepwell is often empty and usually completely dry during summer—you might see it partly full if visiting during monsoon season, roughly from July to September.

What are Indian stepwells?

Also known as baoris, baolis, or vavs, stepwells are large, ornate structures, typically a series of steps—sometimes a dizzying amount!—descending into rivers or deep wells, providing access to water throughout the seasons in monsoon-dependent India. They often feature terraces, niches, and pavilions. Although many are abandoned, some are still used for water catchment and bathing. In Ahmedabad, the 15th-century Adalaj Stepwell is the most famous, but others, such as Dada Harir and Amritavarshini Vav Stepwell, are worth visiting.