The garden was originally commissioned by Maharawal Jait Singh II in the 16th century to create a green space in the desert.
Many of the chhatris feature carved stones depicting the ruler on horseback and the women who performed Sati during his cremation.
The complex includes a large reservoir created by a dam, intended to provide irrigation to the garden area.
Construction of new cenotaphs stopped after the last one was built for Maharawal Jawahir Singh in the mid-20th century.
The site is often used as a filming location for Bollywood productions due to its stark desert aesthetic.
Bada Bagh, or the Big Garden, is a historical site located 6 kilometers north of Jaisalmer city in Rajasthan. It houses a series of royal cenotaphs, known as chhatris, commissioned by the Maharajas of the Jaisalmer state starting in the 16th century. The complex served as a burial ground for generations of the royal family, starting with Maharawal Jait Singh II. Each cenotaph reflects the status and reign of the specific ruler, with many featuring intricate stone carvings of the deceased and their wives who committed Sati. The site also includes the remains of a garden, a tank, and a dam constructed by the royals to manage water in the arid Thar Desert landscape. The cenotaphs are constructed primarily from yellow sandstone, which is characteristic of regional architecture. As of 2026, the site remains open to visitors interested in Rajput funerary architecture. The architectural style evolved over centuries, moving from simple structures to more elaborate, tiered designs.
From the base of the larger, elevated chhatris looking toward the line of structures against the desert horizon.
Carry plenty of water, as the site is exposed to direct sun and offers almost no shade.
Walk to the rear of the complex to find the older, weathered cenotaphs which are often less crowded than those at the entrance.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the loose sand and uneven stone foundations between the structures.
Avoid visiting during the midday heat when temperatures in the Thar Desert frequently reach extremes.
Maintain a respectful silence as the site serves as a memorial ground.
