Dating back to the 16th century, Jaipur’s Panna Meena Ka Kund is a functional stepwell that is said to be almost 450 years old. Although different in significance from the numerous forts that dot the map of Rajasthan, this historic structure has caught the eye of tourists for its aesthetic appeal. Fascinate yourself with the geometrical accuracy of this eight floored structure with a camera in hand, hardly 14 km from the Pink City!
Built during the reign of Maharajah Jai Singh
A square-shaped structure with stairs lining the four walls and a room towards the northern end, Panna Meena Ka Kund has historically been a resting place for weary travellers and businessmen alike, for the temperature inside the baori is significantly lower. It is also popularly believed that this room hosted religious ceremonies before weddings and festivals.
As the local legend states, this stepwell was built during the reign of Maharajah Jai Singh and named after Panna Miah, a eunuch who served in his royal court, because he was instrumental in constructing this stepwell. Further, stories even suggest that this stepwell was built so that the people of Amer could collect water, which was later used at the temples located nearby.
Since half of its land is on dry desert soil, stepwells are not new to the state of Rajasthan. However, Panna Meena Ka Kund holds a special significance because of its striking yellow colour and modern-day relevance.
Know before you visit
Panna Meena Ka Kund is located at walking distance from Amer Fort so you can plan a day that includes a visit to both these monuments of historical importance. Further, there is no entry ticket to visit this stepwell and the best way to reach the destination is on foot, however, you can take a local’s help who can give you directions to take your car to the location.
Knock Knock
There is a local belief about Panna Meena Ka Kund that you cannot use the same flight of stairs that you used to climb down, to go back up! Go and check out in-person with your travel buddies, if this belief is a fact or not.
