Rani Ki Vav is the oldest and the grandest stepwell in the state of Gujarat. It is situated at Patan and is believed to have been built during 1022 to 1063 AD. The construction was completed by the widowed queen Udayamati. She was the wife of King Bhimdev I, son of Mularaja, the founder of the Solanki dynasty of Anahilwada Pattan. It is a richly sculptured monument and a major tourist spot in Patan. The size of the Rani Ki Vav is so huge that the tourists appear to be ants climbing an anthill.Due to silting, a major portion of the well has deteriorated. There were some renovation exercises in 1980, which have restored some of the ancient glory of the place. One of its pillars is so beautifully carved, that it reminds one of the ancient charm of the monument. It appears the well is made up of bricks. There is small gateway just below the last step of the Rani Ki Vav well.
