Bada Bagh, which literally means 'Big Garden', is located on the Ramgarh road. It was commissioned by Maharawal Jait Singh in the early 16th century and completed by his son Lunakaran after his death.
The site has three different things to watch, a garden, a tank and a dam. In the vicinity itself you will find Govardhan Stambh (pillar). This pillar was constructed to commemorate the construction of the Dam and the tank. In the local dialect the Dam and the tank are known as Jait Bandh and the Jait Sar respectively. It is believed that these are based on the name of the man who constructed them. The Jait Bandh is a dominating structure. It is about 1,200 feet in length and 350 feet in width. If you observe it closely you will notice that this has been built out of solid blocks of stone. The same material has been used for the construction of well as well as the tank.
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.
Places to visit in Bada Bagh
Wonderfully sculpted cenotaphs and chhatris of former rulers are the special attraction of Bada Bagh. Pay special attention to carved pillars, beautiful sculpted chhatris, inscriptions and architecture of Bada Bagh.
Also watch out for sunsets here, as they are most breathtaking and also visit the Jait Sar Tank, which is a water reservoir, and Jait Bandh, which is a dam.
Bada Bagh is enveloped in serene calm and tranquility. Evenings are best to visit this beautiful site. Take your cameras and camcorders along, as the place is extremely scenic and photogenic, and will give you many photo opportunities.