Adalaj Stepwell, also called Adalaj Vav or Rudabai Stepwell, is a five-storey monument in Adalaj village, in Gujarat’s Gandhinagar district. Built in 1499, it combines Hindu and Islamic architectural influences and makes a history-focused day trip from Ahmedabad.
- Location: Adalaj village, Gandhinagar district, Gujarat
- From Ahmedabad: Gujarat Tourism gives the distance as 25 km
- Built: 1499, during the rule of Queen Rubabai
- Entry and hours: Confirm current arrangements before travelling
What makes Adalaj Stepwell distinctive
Adalaj Stepwell is a five-storey structure built in 1499 by Queen Rubabai, wife of Vaghela chief Bir Singh. Its scale and architectural blend set it apart among historical places in Ahmedabad’s wider region, though the monument itself stands in Adalaj village, in Gandhinagar district.
Gujarat Tourism describes the stepwell as a blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture. The Ahmedabad District government records that it served as a resting place for travellers and traders, giving the structure a practical role as well as a ceremonial and architectural one.
The site also includes a small Naughrah, or nine-planets, monument. Local belief holds that it protects against evil spirits. As you explore, this detail offers a glimpse of the traditions associated with the stepwell alongside its better-known architectural history.
Carved galleries and architectural details
The five-storey design is the clearest starting point for understanding Adalaj Stepwell: its levels form the structure’s central feature. The monument’s Hindu and Islamic influences sit together in its architectural character, while the Naughrah adds a distinct religious element to the site.
Take time to look at the stepwell as a complete structure rather than focusing on one detail alone. Its original function as a resting place for travellers and traders helps explain why a substantial, multi-storey space was built here. The Ahmedabad District government records the history and purpose; Gujarat Tourism describes the architectural blend.
Hours, entry and visitor access
Opening times, fees and visitor access arrangements should be confirmed before you set out. The Ahmedabad District government’s visitor page does not state opening days, hours, entry fees, parking details, accessibility provisions, visitor restrictions or conservation closures.
Reported entry details vary: admission is listed as free or ₹50 per person, and daily hours are given as 6:00 AM–6:00 PM. These details are not confirmed on the Ahmedabad District government page, so check the official site before you go.
For broader day planning, Gujarat Tourism includes Adalaj Stepwell in a half-day itinerary paired with Gujarat Science City. That pairing provides a framework for combining the stepwell with another destination, though the time needed at each place depends on your plans.
How do you get from Ahmedabad to Adalaj Stepwell?
Adalaj Stepwell is outside Ahmedabad, in Adalaj village, and Gujarat Tourism gives its distance from the city as 25 km.
The Ahmedabad District government describes Ahmedabad as connected by road to major cities and towns, with state transport and private operators running regular bus services to destinations across Gujarat. The Ahmedabad Metro guide to stations and routes can help with local connections around the city.
For a day trip, plan the journey around road access and confirm the onward connection to Adalaj before departure. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Airport is the nearest air gateway identified on the district government’s Adalaj Vav visitor page. Ahmedabad’s main railway station is in the Kalupur area.
Rudra Royale Hotel is about 14.6 km from Adalaj Stepwell. You can also look at Rudra Royale Hotel while planning your Ahmedabad visit.
Gujarat Tourism includes Adalaj Stepwell in a half-day itinerary paired with Gujarat Science City.
If your itinerary includes the old city, the one-day Ahmedabad Old City itinerary covers a different part of the city.
For local rail connections, plan around the metro network and confirm routes before travelling.
FAQs
What is Adalaj Stepwell also called?
It is also known as Adalaj Vav and Rudabai Stepwell.
When was Adalaj Stepwell built?
The five-storey stepwell was built in 1499 by Queen Rubabai, wife of Vaghela chief Bir Singh.
Is Adalaj Stepwell part of Ahmedabad?
The stepwell is in Adalaj village, in Gandhinagar district, Gujarat. Gujarat Tourism gives its distance from Ahmedabad as 25 km.
Can you combine Adalaj Stepwell with another attraction?
Yes. Gujarat Tourism includes it in a half-day itinerary paired with Gujarat Science City.