Ramkund Stepwell

Ramkund is an 18th-century stepwell in Bhuj and part of Gujarat's long tradition of vavs, stepped wells that held water in dry country and doubled as cool places for people to meet.

The well is square, 56 feet along each side, and flights of steps lead down several levels toward the water. Its walls carry carvings of deities and figures from mythology. The air grows noticeably cooler on the way down, which helps explain why such wells served as gathering spots as well as a source of water.