Hazrat Nizamuddin Ki Baoli Delhi
Some call it divine, some believe that the water of Baoli has healing power, but one thing that everybody agrees upon is that the ancient step well needs preservation. Believed to be built by Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, the stepwell is situated near the Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya’s Dargah. Situated in the cosy neighbourhood of Nizamuddin, the Baoli is one of the few functioning Baoli in Delhi. Baoli was once a glory of any kingdom, with every stepwell exhibiting a unique design, but over the time, these Baoli have been marooned by the rapid development and these stepwells lost their glory. Delhi has numerous such stepwell, hidden in the tales of glorious history, ignored by the authorities, fighting for its survival. Yet, many still stand tall, giving visitors a glimpse into the medieval times. Hazrat Nizamuddin Baoli is one such perfect example. The Baoli is still a major tourist hotspot, with devotees seeking the blessings of the divine water. There is a natural spring in the well which provides a constant supply of water to the Baoli. Around the Baoli, there are various small tombs of other saints that existed during the era of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya.
History of the Attraction
The Baoli is more than 800 years old, built in the 14th century Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq era. Constructed by Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, the stepwell was constructed around the same time when Tughlaq was building his own fort. The king was furious with workers opting to work for the Sufi saint which made the king ban the workers from going over there during the day. The workers, however, still determined to construct the stepwell decided to work during nights, using oil lamps. The King, still furious, banned the supply of oil to the neighbourhood. Now, this is very the folklore gets interesting. While some believe that the construction was carried out under the moonlight, some say that the water of the divine Baoli was used as oil for the lamp. The Baoli, since then, has been an important pilgrim stop for all the devotees of the Sufi saint. The Baoli which was being used by the locals as a swimming pool witnessed some damage on one side of the well. The Baoli was renovated in the area, which ensured a complete cleaning of the Baoli. Today the Baoli is maintained by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture.
Getting there
The nearest metro station is IP Estate metro station on Blue Line of Delhi Metro. From there you can take an auto to reach Hazrat Nizamuddin ki Baoli.
Things to Do in & around
The Hazrat Nizamuddin ki Baoli is situated near the Hazrat Nizamuddin ki Dargah. You can also visit the nearby small tombs that have been preserved and renovated.
Opening and Closing Timing
The Baoli is open throughout the day. The Baoli is open on all days of the week
Entry Fees
There is no entry fee for visiting the Hazrat Nizamuddin ki Baoli.
Best Time to Visit
Winters in Delhi is the best time to explore the city with climate being favourable for a sightseeing tour.