Adi Kadi Vav is one of Junagadh’s most unusual stepwells, carved directly into solid rock inside the Uparkot Fort complex. Instead of pillars and carved galleries like other Gujarati vavs, this one is essentially a long, narrow rock corridor: about 160+ steps descend between sheer stone walls to a deep circular well shaft nearly 120+ feet below the surface. The bare rock, echoing stairway and slice of sky high above give it a very dramatic, almost cave-like feel—great for atmospheric photos. Local legends speak of two girls, Adi and Kadi, linked to the discovery of water here, and visitors still tie bangles and cloths on nearby trees in their memory.
About this place
History & highlights
The exact date of construction is uncertain; some sources place Adi Kadi Vav in the 10th–11th century Chudasama period, while others suggest the 15th century or even older legendary origins. Unlike built stepwells, it was rock-cut from top down, making it a rare example of this type in Gujarat. Over time it became an important water source for people inside Uparkot, and its stark form has survived largely intact, now protected as a state monument and popular stop on fort tours.
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