Baoli is nothing but a stepwells made in ancient times for travellers to reach water through descending set of steps to the water level. Many of them are multi storied and are most common in western India. The construction of stepwells is mainly utilitarian, though they may include decorative of ancient architectural significance.
Stepwells are examples of the many types of storage and irrigation tanks that were developed in India, mainly to cope with seasonal fluctuations in water availability.
The majority of these stepwells originally served a leisure purpose as well as providing water. This was because the base of the well provided relief from the daytime heat, and this was increased if the well was covered. Stepwells also served as a place for social gatherings and religious ceremonies.
Stepwells consist of a vertical shaft from which water is drawn and the surrounding passageways and steps which provide access to the well. The galleries and chambers surrounding these wells were often carved profusely with elaborate detail and became cool, quiet retreats during the hot summers.
Few of the famous Baolis I have visited so far:
