Nagakunda Stepwell (Sudi, Gadag District, Karnataka)

With the full endorsement of the Karnataka government and the generous support of Mrs. Rajashree Pinnamaneni, in memory of her late father Dr. Subba Rao Devineni, Deccan Heritage Foundation India will soon begin the architectural restoration and water revitalization of the Nagakunda stepwell in Sudi, Gadag district, Karnataka.

Sudi, a historic stronghold of the Kalyani Chalukya dynasty, boasts remarkable 10th and 11th-century temples, and the stepwell represents a unique example of subterranean architecture combined with ancient water management systems. This initiative, under the government’s “Adopt a Monument” scheme, will restore this important site to its former grandeur.

Phase one will focus on restoring the ancient stepwell itself, including water rejuvenation and conservation of the structure, along with landscaping the surrounding gardens. Phase two will include maintaining the stepwell, restoring the Jodakalasa temple, built during the later Chalukyan period, and creating a pathway to connect these monuments.

The government’s endorsement of this project aims not only to preserve the heritage of Sudi but also to place it on the map as a significant cultural destination, only two hours from Hampi and one hour from Badami. Through this project, we hope to engage the local community and promote sustainable tourism in the region.

IMPACT OF THIS PROJECT
• Uplift Sudi’s famous monuments and project it as a key destination on India’s cultural map
• Enhance tourism in this lesser-known part of Karnataka
• Restore and preserve a natural water body with deep cultural and social significance in the region
• Restore the natural hydrological balance of the stepwell and supply drinking water to the people living nearby
• Conserve and preserve the site’s heritage value for both present and future generations