Jaisalmer Bada Bagh

Bada Bagh in Jaisalmer About 6 kilometres to the north of Jaisalmer lies Bada Bagh, also called Barabagh (literally Big Garden). This garden complex houses chhatris or royal cenotaphs of the Maharajas of Jaisalmer state, including that of Jai Singh II. The location of the garden is such that it offers wonderful sunset vistas to tourists. Bada Bagh means ‘Huge Garden’. Maharawal Jait Singh’s period saw its construction, which was in the beginning of 16th century. His son Lunakaran completed the construction after the death of his father. The garden served as a memorial where the nobles and their families were cremated. The garden offers a stunning view. The place is isolated. If you visit the place during sunrise and sun set, you are guaranteed of beautiful moments, which you cannot avoid clicking. Located 6 kilometers away from Jaisalmer city, Bada Bagh is a beautiful place that houses several cenotaphs of the royal families from the 16th century to 20th century. It also maintains several other attractions like a garden, a tank, a dam and the Govardhan Stambh (pillar).

History of Bada Bagh
Bada Bagh might surprise you with its greenery in the arid desert landscape of Jaisalmer. This was in fact the very idea when it was built back in the 16th century – to build a beautiful green oasis in the desert region. Originally, there were only a dam and a water reservoir, but successive rulers started to build memorials and chhatris in the memory of erstwhile rulers of this region. Today, this garden complex, just 5 km from Jaisalmer is a prominent tourist attraction of Jaisalmer. The cenotaphs have beautifully carved chhatris, with exquisite chiseled pillars and inscriptions made on yellow sandstone. The landscape garden besides Bada Bagh is soothing to the eyes, and provides a green touch to the entire region. There are many mango trees around too.

Architectural Marvels:
The main attractions of Bada Bagh are the stunning chhatris, which are intricately carved and adorned with exquisite Rajasthani architectural details. Each chhatri is built atop a raised platform and features ornate domes, pillars, and arches, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship and artistic prowess of the artisans of the time. The cenotaphs are arranged in rows, creating a striking visual impact against the backdrop of the desert landscape.

Reservoir (Tank):
Adjacent to the cenotaphs is a large reservoir, known as the Tank of Bada Bagh, which was constructed to collect rainwater for agricultural purposes. The reservoir adds to the scenic beauty of the site and provides a tranquil setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings.

Sunset Views:
Bada Bagh is renowned for offering spectacular views of the sunset against the backdrop of the sand dunes and desert landscape. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the chhatris and the reservoir, visitors can witness a breathtaking spectacle of colors and light, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Cultural Significance:
Bada Bagh holds significant cultural and historical importance in the region, serving as a memorial site for the rulers of Jaisalmer and a testament to their enduring legacy. The site is also a popular pilgrimage destination for locals, who visit to pay their respects to the departed souls and seek blessings for prosperity and well-being.

Visitor Experience:
Visitors to Bada Bagh can explore the complex at their leisure, marveling at the intricate architecture of the chhatris, strolling along the pathways that wind through the garden, and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. The serene ambiance and historical significance of Bada Bagh make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the cultural heritage of Jaisalmer.