About Kapur Baoli
Kapur Baoli is a 12th-century stepwell located in Ramtek, Nagpur district, Maharashtra. Built by the Yadava dynasty between the 10th and 12th centuries AD in the Hemadpanti architectural style, it served as a water reservoir and religious site dedicated to six goddesses. The rectangular structure is approximately 60 feet deep and features a ruined Kali Mata Temple at one end. It is situated in a forested valley north of the Ramtek hills and is noted for its ancient stone masonry constructed without cementing material.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore an ancient rectangular stepwell built in the Hemadpanti style with stone steps leading down to a perennial water basin. The site includes a ruined temple dedicated to Goddess Jagdamba and pillared passageways featuring incomplete sculptured panels. The surrounding area is a forested valley that serves as a natural habitat for rare birds and reptiles. As an isolated heritage spot without modern facilities, visitors should expect a quiet environment with historic stone architecture and potential wildlife presence.
Key highlights
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12th-century stepwell constructed in Hemadpanti architectural style
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Perennial water basin believed to have medicinal camphor-like properties
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Ruined Kali Mata Temple with ancient stone sculptures at the site
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Dedicated to six goddesses including Chamunda, Bhairavi, and Kali
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Located in a forested valley serving as habitat for rare birds and reptiles
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Ancient stone structure built entirely without cementing material
History of Kapur Baoli
Constructed by the Yadava dynasty rulers between the 10th and 12th centuries AD, Kapur Baoli functioned as a vital water reservoir during dry seasons. The name derives from 'Karpur' (camphor) and 'Baoli' (water tank), referencing beliefs about the water's medicinal qualities. Mythologically, the site is associated with the demon Karpurasur and was frequented by Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj. The architectural style reflects medieval Deccan traditions with Harappan cultural influences visible in the shrine's design.
Culture & Context
The stepwell is dedicated to six goddesses: Bhairavi, Chamunda, Ingalaj, Ranchandi, Kali, and Kapurta. It houses a Shiva lingam in its garbhagriha alongside incomplete sculptured panels. The site holds mythological importance as the dwelling place of the demon Karpurasur according to local legends. The adjacent ruined temple of Goddess Jagdamba is believed to be accompanied by her seven maids known as 'Saat Aasra'.