About Battisi Baoli
Battisi Baoli is a large historic stepwell located on the outskirts of Chanderi town in Ashoknagar District, Madhya Pradesh. Built in the 15th century during the Malwa Sultanate period, it is noted for its massive rectangular tank and 32 ghats or steps that give it its name. The structure exemplifies medieval water architecture and is a protected monument within Chanderi's historic complex.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a large, open, rectangular stepwell built of stone with symmetrical flights of steps descending on multiple sides to a deep water reservoir. The site is set in a semi-rural landscape near Chanderi Fort with open surroundings and historic masonry walls. Visitors can walk around the upper perimeter, descend the steps, view the architecture and water level, and photograph the geometric patterns of the ghats.
Key highlights
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One of the largest stepwells in Madhya Pradesh with 32 ghats
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15th-century Malwa Sultanate architecture in stone masonry
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Large rectangular water tank with symmetrical stepped sides
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Located within Chanderi historic town near Chanderi Fort
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Example of medieval water management and engineering
History of Battisi Baoli
Battisi Baoli was constructed in the 15th century during the rule of the Malwa Sultans, traditionally attributed to the period of Sultan Mahmud Khilji or Ghiyas-ud-Din Khilji. It served as a major water source for Chanderi town and its fort, reflecting the advanced water harvesting and storage systems of medieval central India. The stepwell is part of Chanderi's group of protected monuments.
Culture & Context
The baoli represents the traditional water architecture of Bundelkhand and Malwa regions and illustrates historic community water management practices. It remains a notable example of Chanderi's heritage and is visited as part of the town's cultural and architectural circuit alongside its forts, palaces and handloom heritage.
Route
| By air |
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