I don’t know whether M.C. Escher ever set eyes on a stepwell, but they always remind me of his work. India has quite a few of them and they come in all shapes and sizes. This one is Panna Meena ka Kund, located just outside Jaipur near the Amber Fort. The Fort receives large numbers of visitors, but very few people visit the stepwell – despite the fact that it is just a short walk away (and access is free of charge).
Panna Meena ka Kund is neither the largest nor the oldest of the Indian stepwells – it dates back to the 16th century. However, for me it has a magical air about it. I suppose it is the colours and shadows in particular that I find enthralling here. The fact that the well has featured in films, such as “Best Exotic Marigold Hotel”, shows that I am not the only one who is fascinated by it.
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