Bada Bagh is the Sanskrit word for “Big Garden.” It is an isolated place located a few kilometers north of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. On one side, it opens into the vast Thar Desert. Bada Bagh presents a breathtaking scenery at dawn and dusk when it attracts photographers and those who love history. If you are interested in the history of the city or want to travel and enjoy the beautiful memorial garden or any other place, then our Jaisalmer Tour Packages are best for your interest, as we will provide you with personalised packages to bring peace and serenity and to better understand the history of the city.
Historical Background of Bada Bagh
Bada Bagh was established in the 16th century as a memorial created by Maharaja Jai Singh II to pay tribute to his father, Maharaja Maharawal Jait Singh, who ruled the state of Jaisalmer from 1470 until 1506. A dam was started by Maharaja Jait Singh. His son completed it and made the area an oasis that supported lush greenery in the arid desert. Successive rulers followed the norm of cenotaphs. Bada Bagh served as a sacred place in the royal family.
Formation and Origin
There are several chhatri at Bada Bagh, each chhatri is constructed to celebrate a dead ruler, and an inscription on the chhatri describes the life and reign of the ruler. Chhatris are of different sizes and designs, with the more important ones constructed for rulers who were of higher importance. The area also contains a large dam and a tank, which was very essential in maintaining agriculture in the region.
Significance of Bada Bagh
Bada Bagh holds high cultural and historical importance because it is the last resting ground of Jaisalmer’s royal family. It acts as a sign of regard that the rulers and their family members gave to their previous generations. The place further manifests the brilliant works that were done by Maharaja Jait Singh and Maharaja Jai Singh II for agriculture in the very harsh desert climatic conditions, thus making a great legacy for the population of Jaisalmer.
Architectural Marvel of Bada Bagh
Bada Bagh is also known for its unusual architecture and symmetry. Chhatris are in combination with Islamic and Rajput style with domes, finely cut pillars, and dainty latticework. The cenotaphs are in line formation on the hilltop side as the oldest are the most uppermost at the hilltop, while newer ones are down on the slope. The design of symmetry and detailing makes chhatris a masterpiece in the architectural world. If you are willing to witness historical architecture of the Bada Bagh and other places located in Jaisalmer , then we have several tour packages, including same day Jaisalmer tour packages, at cheap and affordable rates, by which you can enjoy the entire Jaisalmer.
Design and Layout
Bada Bagh is laid out in an extremely planned manner, wherein the cenotaphs are in a straight line. The larger cenotaphs are done in the more elaborate domes supported by intricately carved pillars, and the smaller ones are much simpler. The dam and tank constructed near the cenotaphs remind one of the foresight of the rulers of Jaisalmer in harnessing water resources that significantly impacted the area’s agriculture.
Unique Features and Symbolism
Chhatris at Bada Bagh are designed in great detail with inscriptions and carvings representing the stories of the lives of the Maharajas. Domes represent the glory and royal status of the rulers, while the whole design of Bada Bagh represents the importance of lineage and legacy in the Rajput culture. The architecture and the natural beauty of the place provide a spiritual and peaceful atmosphere for reflection.
Significant Features of Bada Bagh
- Cenotaphs (Chhatris): The cenotaphs are the most beautiful feature of Bada Bagh, with its superb architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sunrise and Sunset Views: There’s magic in the golden hue of sunrise and sunset, and glowing sandstone chhatris against the desert landscape make for an exquisite view.
- Scenic views: Bada Bagh offers scenic views of the Thar Desert, which can be captured in photographs and is perfect for silent reflection.
- Panoramic Views: Bada Bagh features spectacular panoramic views of the Thar Desert, perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.
Best Time to Visit
Bada Bagh is best visited between the milder months of October and March. Evenings are good times to visit the site for photography as the soft desert light falls gently upon the cenotaphs.
Attractions Around
There are also several other Places to Visit in Jaisalmer that are near Bada Bagh:
- Jaisalmer Fort: The Jaisalmer Fort is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This is amongst the greatest architectural wonders and has to be visited here in Jaisalmer.
- Sam Sand Dunes: Just a little distance away from Bada Bagh, enjoy a desert safari and watch cultural performances performed by Rajasthani natives at Sam Sand Dunes.
- Patwon Ki Haveli: The Carved Jaisalmer Haveli has given people an idea of how those merchants used to live that had so much money to spare.
- Gadisar Lake: An old man-made lake, perfect for a relaxed boat tour and capturing beautiful scenery of temples and ghats around it.