Amer is a sub-city of Jaipur, Rajasthan, that dates to the medieval period. Today, most travelers who visit Amer come to see the famous Amber Fort. But many are unaware that just next to the massive castle lies a yellow-colored stepwell, built in the 16th century.

Stepwells are not new to the state of Rajasthan, as half of its land is on dry desert soil. Many locals suggest Panna Meena ka Kund was built so the people of Amer could collect water, which was later used at many temples nearby. Women also came here to fill their water pots for household work. Apart from this, Panna Meena ka Kund was a resting place for many travelers—business people and saints alike—as the temperature inside the stepwell is significantly cooler.

Panna Meena ka Kund is a square-shaped stepwell, with adjoining stairs on all four sides and a room on the northern wall. It’s believed this room was used for religious ceremonies before weddings or on popular festival dates.

Panna Meena ka Kund is not one of the biggest stepwells in Rajasthan, but it’s worth visiting. For the last two decades, this stepwell has been maintained by the local municipal authority, and thus you will find many travelers coming here to take some nice pictures.