Step Wells
A traditional way to conserve water in India
Another most unique example for  harvesting rainwater and providing water for drinking purpose in arid parts of  our country was the step well.

  

Step wells are also  called water temples of India. The idea to construct step wells  was initiated due to the need to ensure  water supply during the period of drought. Some of the step wells were dug very  close to tanks to get drinking water    throughout   the year. Step wells  are also called Vav, Vavadi, Bawdi, Bawri,  Baoli, and Bavadi   and can be found  in Gujarat and Rajasthan. 

Adalaj-Vav is a  very popular step-well i.e. about 20 kms from Ahemdabad. It is made in the form  of a temple that ends into a well. The well is about six storeys below ground  level.