Bada Bagh is roughly translated to “Big Garden,” is a historic and deeply significant monument complex located around six kilometres north of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India. It is one of the most outstanding architectural landmarks in the Thar Desert, with its towering rows of royal cenotaphs or Chhatris dedicated to the monarchs of the Jaisalmer state. Jaisalmer’s prime tourist spot is worth discovering during the sightseeing tour by car or driver. If you are a history lover, then this is your place to be.

In this article, we’ll explain in detail about Bada Bagh in Jaisalmer.

History of Bada Bagh –

Bada Bagh dates to the 16^th century, when Maharawal Jait Singh, who reigned from 1497 to 1530, founded it. He commissioned the construction of a gigantic dam called the Jait Bandh and a catchment tank, the Jait Sar, to garner the rains and create this oasis in the surrounding arid landscape. The possibility of a garden, more specifically a mango grove, that this dam could support gave its original name to the location, Bada Bagh.

Before long, the erection of royal memorials started. Jait Singh’s son, Maharawal Lunkaran, completed the dam and garden and built the first chhatri or cenotaph in his father’s memory, which turned Bada Bagh into the royal necropolis for the rulers and their relations in Jaisalmer’s Bhati dynasty.

Over the years, each successive ruler built a new chhatri upon their death, resulting in the collection of over 100 magnificently carved sandstone cenotaphs that may still be seen today. The building lasted until the early 20^th century. The first cenotaph, planned for Maharawal Jawahir Singh, was left unfinished due to events after India’s independence.

This is a marvellous piece of Rajput architecture, with beautiful carvings, ornamental pillars and domed cenopies. The cenotaphs have been placed on a hill in chronological order, offering a dramatic visual testimony to the long ancestry and never-ending legacy of Jaisalmer’s kings amidst this landscape of sand dunes.

Things to do at Bada Bagh –

Take a stroll around the rows of beautifully carved yellow sandstone cenotaphs. The intricate detailing of the pillars and domes is quite striking, while marble inscription slabs at the base narrate about deceased emperors and queens.

Homogeneous architecture coupled with the arid desert surroundings presents an excellent photographic opportunity. Especially known for capturing the dramatic sunrise and sunset views, where the golden rays of the sun illuminate the sandstone buildings.

Observe the ruins of the brilliant water conservation effort, like the Jait Bandh Dam and the Jait Sar Tank, which played a crucial role in building the original “Big Garden.”

Bada Bagh is positioned on a little hill and offers panoramic and serene views of the surrounding Thar Desert region.

Places to visit near Bada Bagh –

Jaisalmer Fort is a living fort, also on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and represents the city centre, and is an architectural masterwork.

Patwon ki Haveli is a cluster of five elegantly designed, beautiful havelis, well-known for their wonderful stone carvings and architecture.

Gadisar Lake is an artificial, serene water reservoir lined with temples and ghats, perfect for a peaceful boat ride.

Salim Singh ki Haveli and Nathmalji ki Haveli are the historical residences, known for their unique architectural design.

Kuldhara village is a mysterious abandoned village with a well-known story associated with its untimely disappearance.

Timing: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, every day.

Entry Fee:

Indian tourists: ₹20 to ₹50 per person

Foreign tourists: ₹50 to ₹100 per person

Camera Charges: There may be different charges for still and video cameras.

Conclusion –

Bada Bagh is not just a cluster of empty tombs, but a rich historical canvas depicting the essence of Jaisalmer’s regal past, architectural heritage, and the king’s prowess in adjusting to the hostile desert environment. The melancholic atmosphere and incredible visual symmetry of the chhatris against the golden desert sky combine to form a destination that is unforgettable and spiritually stirring for travellers to Rajasthan.