Bada Bagh Jaisalmer (Information)
Location | Bada Bagh, Ramgarh Road, Jaisalmer |
Timings | 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM |
Entry Fee | 50 per person for Indians and Rs.100 per person for foreigners |
Time Required | Approximately 1-2 hours |
Fee for taking camera in | Still Camera: INR 20 - 100, Video Camera: INR 50 - 150 |
Best Time to Visit | From November to March |
Bada Bagh, also known as Barabagh, is a historic site located in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India. It is a popular tourist attraction that showcases impressive architectural structures and picturesque surroundings. Here's more about Bada Bagh:
Bada Bagh translates to "Big Garden" in Hindi, and it is an extensive garden complex comprising chhatris (cenotaphs) or memorial domes dedicated to the rulers of the Maharaja state of Jaisalmer. The site was initially built to commemorate the royal families of Jaisalmer, and it holds a significant historical and cultural value.
The main cenotaph in Bada Bagh is dedicated to Maharaja Jai Singh II, who ruled Jaisalmer in the 16th century. The chhatris are constructed in the typical Rajput style, featuring intricate carvings, detailed designs, and ornate decorations. These impressive structures are made of yellow sandstone, which is synonymous with the architecture of Jaisalmer.
Besides the cenotaphs, Bada Bagh is surrounded by a sprawling garden area. The garden adds a serene and tranquil ambiance to the site, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic. The lush greenery contrasts beautifully with the golden sand dunes of the desert, creating a picturesque setting.
Visiting Bada Bagh offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history and architectural beauty of Jaisalmer. The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, with the Rajasthani desert stretching far and wide. The serene atmosphere and the grandeur of the cenotaphs make Bada Bagh a perfect place for photography enthusiasts.
Bada Bagh is located around 6 kilometers north of Jaisalmer city, making it easily accessible for tourists. It is advisable to visit Bada Bagh in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the scorching heat of the desert during the daytime.
Exploring Bada Bagh allows visitors to appreciate the architectural splendor of Jaisalmer and delve into its royal history. The site offers a blend of architectural brilliance, natural beauty, and historical significance, leaving visitors with cherished memories of their time in Jaisalmer.
History of Bada Bagh Jaisalmer
Built in the 16th century, Bada Bagh houses remarkable cenotaphs in memory of great royal members of the times. The first chhatri was built in remembrance of Maharaja Jai Singh II, and many others followed as the site became a famous royal burial ground.
Lunkaran, Jai Singh II's son, built the region's first cenotaph. Jai Singh II was renowned for his contribution to the greening of the city during his reign. In his honour, his son built a cenotaph near the dam and created a large park around the monument.
A beautifully carved ceiling is present in every cenotaph here, along with elegant equestrian statues of the rulers on the cenotaphs.
Architecture of Bada Bagh Jaisalmer
The chhatris at Bada Bagh are built in the Rajasthani style of architecture and feature intricate carvings and designs. The cenotaphs are composed of yellow sandstone and are adorned with beautiful paintings, sculptures, and inscriptions. In terms of architecture, there is a fusion of Hindu and Islamic styles, reflecting the cultural diversity of Rajasthan.
Best Time to Visit Bada Bagh Jaisalmer
Winter is the best time to visit Bada Bagh Jaisalmer, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and cool. The summer months, from March to June, are very hot and uncomfortable, making exploring the site difficult.
How to Reach Bada Bagh Jaisalmer
Whether you're visiting on a day trip or plan to spend some relaxing time at Jaisalmer for a day or two, Bada Bagh should be on your list. Here are a few ways to get to Bada Bagh from Jaisalmer.
By Air: The closest airport to Bada Bagh is Jaisalmer Airport, located 6 kilometres away. There are direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Jaisalmer. Once you've reached the airport, you can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to Bada Bagh.
By Train: Jaisalmer Railway Station is the nearest major rail station, located 6 kilometres away. You can choose top cab rentals in Jaisalmer or auto-rickshaw to Bada Bagh.
By Road: Bada Bagh is just 6 kilometres away from Jaisalmer city centre, so the best way to get there is by road. There are several bus services connecting Jaisalmer and Bada Bagh. You can also hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw for the journey.
Jaisalmer Tourism
When planning for Jaisalmer, you must decide on the time when you would want to visit it. Jaisalmer Travel Guide & Tips!
People Also Ask Jaisalmer
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Why is Bada Bagh famous?
Equidistant from Jaisalmer and Lodhruva, Bada Bagh, literally meaning big garden, features a series of royal cenotaphs or chhatris of Jaisalmer Maharajas, including that of Jai Singh II (Maharaja Sawai Jai Sing). The first cenotaph in the region was built for Jai Singh II by his son, Lunkaran, in the 16th century.
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What is the history of Bada Bagh Jaisalmer?
Bada Bagh means big garden. It is a garden of cenotaphs or chhatris of the royal family of Jaisalmer. A descendant of Maharawal Jaisal Singh, Jait Singh II, commissioned a dam to create a water tank in the 16th century AD. This made the desert green in this area.
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What is the timing of Bada Bagh Jaisalmer?
Entry Fees and Timings of Bada Bagh Jaisalmer The site is usually open to visitors from 8 AM to 6 PM every day.
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Who built Bada Bagh Jaisalmer?
After Jait Singh II's death, his son Lunkaran (1530-1551) built a beautiful garden by the lake and a memorial chhatri cenotaph on a hill overlooking the lake.