Baulia Pool
The Baulia Pool is a historical water reservoir or tank located in Sasaram, most famously associated with the Sur Empire and its founder, Sher Shah Suri (16th century). The name "Baulia" is locally thought to be derived from the word for a well or a water source, and historical accounts suggest it w as traditionally used by the emperor's consorts or the royal ladies for bathing and ritual ablutions. Its proximity to the magnificent Tomb of Sher Shah Suri, which stands in the middle of a large artificial lake, suggests that the Baulia Pool was part of the larger royal waterworks and garden complex, indicating the sophisticated urban planning and architectural emphasis on water bodies during the Sur dynasty's rule. While the artificial lake surrounding the tomb is the primary focus, the Baulia Pool represents a more intimate, practical, and historically significant part of the royal precinct. Its design and structure would have been created not just for utility but also to provide a cooling, secluded, and aesthetically pleasing environment in the hot climate of Bihar. Today, it remains a historical landmark, providing context to the life and environment of the Sur royalty and offering a picturesque, tranquil spot for visitors exploring the Sher Shah Suri Tomb complex. The water bodies are crucial elements of the Indo-Afghan architectural style prevalent in Sasaram.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 Hour (For viewing and enjoying the quiet surroundings)Place Type:
Historical Water Body, Architectural Heritage, RoyEntry Fees:
Pool Access is Free: As an open-air historical water body adjacent to the main monument, there is usually no separate entry fee to visit the Baulia Pool itself.
Tomb Complex Fee: However, to reach the pool, you must typically enter the large...Pool Access is Free: As an open-air historical water body adjacent to the main monument, there is usually no separate entry fee to visit the Baulia Pool itself.
Tomb Complex Fee: However, to reach the pool, you must typically enter the larger complex that houses the Tomb of Sher Shah Suri. The Tomb complex often has a nominal entry fee (for Indian nationals, typically around Rs.25 to Rs.50; for foreign nationals, it is higher, around Rs.300 to Rs.500), charged by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) or the State Tourism Department. This fee covers the entire tomb complex, including the pool.
Camera/Video Fee: A small, additional fee might be charged for carrying a professional video camera, but standard mobile phone and still photography are usually included in the main entry ticket.
Total Cost: The total cost of visiting the pool is thus only the nominal entry ticket for the Sher Shah Suri Tomb complex, making it a highly accessible historical site. Always check the current ASI rate at the ticket counter upon arrival.Timing:
Regular Timings: The pool is accessible during the operating hours of the Sher Shah Suri Tomb complex, generally from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (daylight hours). It is usually closed after sunset for security reasons.
Ideal Visit Time: Early Morni...Regular Timings: The pool is accessible during the operating hours of the Sher Shah Suri Tomb complex, generally from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (daylight hours). It is usually closed after sunset for security reasons.
Ideal Visit Time: Early Morning (6:00 AM - 9:00 AM) is the absolute best time. The water is often calm, the air is cool, and there are very few visitors, allowing for unparalleled tranquility and the best reflection photographs.
Avoid Midday: The period from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM should be avoided, as the exposed location can become intensely hot, and the harsh overhead sunlight spoils the quality of the water reflections.
Winter Evenings: During the pleasant winter months (November to February), a late afternoon visit (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) to catch the sunset light over the water is highly recommended, offering a picturesque and comfortable viewing experience.
Seasonal Variation: Post-monsoon (September to October) sees the highest water level, which, while reducing the visibility of the steps, makes the overall water body look most majestic.Special Events:
Sher Shah Suri Death Anniversary: Since the pool is part of the tomb complex, it sees increased visitor flow on the death anniversary of Sher Shah Suri (May 22), though the main event is focused on the tomb.
Chhath Puja Observation: As a his...Sher Shah Suri Death Anniversary: Since the pool is part of the tomb complex, it sees increased visitor flow on the death anniversary of Sher Shah Suri (May 22), though the main event is focused on the tomb.
Chhath Puja Observation: As a historical water body in Bihar, the Baulia Pool often becomes a site for local communities to perform the sacred rituals of Chhath Puja (November), a major festival dedicated to the Sun God, offering a vibrant cultural spectacle.
Local Fair: Occasionally, especially during the cooler months (November to February), a small, localized fair or market sets up near the entrance of the tomb complex, indirectly increasing the footfall and creating a festive atmosphere around the pool area. Seasonal Water Sports (Informal) During the peak summer or post-monsoon period, local youth might engage in informal swimming or water activities, which, while not a formal event, is a regular seasonal activity providing a glimpse into local recreation.Best Photo Spots:
The Reflection Mirror: Position yourself along the edge of the pool to capture the flawless, mirrored reflection of the surrounding architecture, especially the distant elements of the Sher Shah Suri Tomb complex in the still water.
The Stone St...The Reflection Mirror: Position yourself along the edge of the pool to capture the flawless, mirrored reflection of the surrounding architecture, especially the distant elements of the Sher Shah Suri Tomb complex in the still water.
The Stone Step Geometry: Capture the descending pattern of the stone steps leading into the water, focusing on the geometric lines and the ancient, weathered texture of the masonry. This works best when the pool water level is low.
Water and Sky Contrast: A photo that emphasizes the tranquil blue/green of the pool water against a clear sky, using a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness and the cooling effect of the water body in the dry landscape.
Shaded Seclusion: Find an angle that captures the pool nestled under a tree or partially shaded area, conveying the sense of privacy and coolness that the royal women would have experienced in the 16th century.
Golden Hour Tranquility: Photography during sunrise or sunset, when the pool's surface catches the warm light, creating long shadows and an intense, emotional atmosphere.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Meditate by the Water: The quiet, historical environment of the Baulia Pool is perfect for quiet meditation and peaceful reflection, especially in the early mornings, away from the crowds of the main tomb area.
Architectural Study: Spend time analyzing the pool's construction—the stone steps, the masonry work, and the integration of the pool into the overall landscape design—to appreciate the engineering and architectural skill of the 16th-century builders.
Waterfront Photography: Dedicate time to capturing the best photographs of the water body, focusing on reflections, the texture of the old steps, and framing the pool's tranquil setting against the historical structures or the sky.
Picnic Spot: While not formally designated, the surrounding grassy area is ...
Information
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Why Famous:
Connection to Sher Shah Suri: Its primary fame comes from its close association with the Sur dynasty and Sher Shah Suri, one of the most brilliant and effective rulers of medieval India, whose tomb complex is right next to it. It offers a tangible link to the daily lives of...Connection to Sher Shah Suri: Its primary fame comes from its close association with the Sur dynasty and Sher Shah Suri, one of the most brilliant and effective rulers of medieval India, whose tomb complex is right next to it. It offers a tangible link to the daily lives of the royal family.
Example of Royal Amenities: The pool is a rare surviving example of royal water amenities from the 16th century, demonstrating the level of comfort, luxury, and sophisticated architectural planning that was part of the imperial lifestyle of the Sur rulers.
Tranquil and Picturesque Setting: The pool provides a beautiful, tranquil, and picturesque setting, offering a stark contrast to the massive, imposing structure of the main tomb. This visual balance and aesthetic appeal make it a popular spot for visitors seeking quiet reflection and photography within the historical complex.
Cultural Significance: Historically known as the bathing pool for the royal consorts, it carries a unique cultural and gendered significance, representing the secluded world of the royal women and their lifestyle during the Sur period. Its historical function adds depth to the understanding of the site beyond military and political history. -
Architecture:
Indo-Afghan Waterworks: The Baulia Pool is an excellent example of Indo-Afghan water-centric architecture, where water bodies were integrated into the structural complex for both aesthetic and utilitarian purposes. The pool would have been fed by local water sources or perh...Indo-Afghan Waterworks: The Baulia Pool is an excellent example of Indo-Afghan water-centric architecture, where water bodies were integrated into the structural complex for both aesthetic and utilitarian purposes. The pool would have been fed by local water sources or perhaps an elaborate system of canals.
Stepwell/Ghat Design: The pool structure typically features a stone or brick lining with a series of descending steps (Ghats) leading into the water, designed for easy access for bathing while ensuring stability. This step-like design is common in the historical water tanks and wells of Northern India.
Dimension and Shape: The pool is a significant water body but smaller than the main artificial lake of the tomb. It is generally rectangular or square in shape, with dimensions that might range from 50 to 100 meters on a side, though these can vary. The depth would have been designed for safe bathing, likely a few meters deep.
Seclusion and Shading: Historically, the pool would have been surrounded by walls, kiosks (Chatris), or lush vegetation to provide the royal women with privacy and shade, a key consideration for its function as a royal bathing spot. Today, some remnants of the surrounding structures or landscaping might still be visible, reflecting its original, private nature.
Stone Masonry: The pool walls and steps are constructed using local sandstone or sturdy masonry, designed to withstand the annual water-level fluctuations and the test of centuries, similar to the durable construction of the nearby Sher Shah Suri Tomb. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest major airport is Gaya International Airport (GAY, 120 KMs), or Varanasi Airport (VNS, 140 KMs). From there, hire a pre-paid taxi for the 2. 5 to 3-hour drive to Sasaram. Once in Sasaram, the pool is part of the famous tomb complex, easily reachable. -
Near Tourist Places:
Tomb of Sher Shah Suri (Same Complex), Tomb of Hasan Khan Suri (1 KM), Babu Jagjivan Ram Smarak (3 KMs), Bara Masjid (2 KMs), Ashokan Minor Rock Edict (9 KMs), Manjhar Kund Waterfall (16 KMs), Dhuan Kund Waterfall (19 KMs), Budhan Sunset Point (10 KMs), Rohtasgarh Fort (40 KMs), Shergarh Fort (50 KMs).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Be extremely careful on the stone steps, especially if they are wet or covered in algae, as they can be very slippery; wear non-slip footwear. There are usually no railings, so supervise children closely.
Carry Water: Even...
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