India’s ‘well of death’ in Kashmir is terrifying

DEEP in the heart of India lies an incredible well that’s being used for a shocking purpose putting the lives of locals at risk.

Motorcyclists and car drivers defy gravity at the “wheel of death” in India.

DEEP in the heart of India lies a well that’s being used for a terrifying purpose.

As showcased by these astounding photographs, the “well of death” is home to some of the world’s most exciting motor stunts.

The well — which ranges from six to 11 meters in diameter — originates from American motordome racing in the early 1900s but has become a popular carnival sideshow in Kashmir, India.

Motorcyclists and car drivers defy gravity as they cruise around its near-vertical walls.

It has become a popular carnival sideshow.

Vehicles are not pinned to the wall, but held in place by centripetal force which allows objects to follow a curved path, similar to a loop-the-loop in a roller-coaster.

A stunt performer salutes onlookers while driving a car in the well of death.

The show uses temporary cylindrical structures and are built by locals who dig a hole in the ground and erect hardwood planks.

An exterior view of the well.

Vehicles are not pinned to the wall, but held in place by centripetal force.

Stunt motorcyclists Rahul and Mohammad Ali.

Stuntmen Mohd Aalam, Bahar Khan and Ajim Khan hang out of the window of cars.

Getting ready to go.

High five!