Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh is one of the most prominent ancient gardens in Ghat Ki Guni, Jaipur. I have already written a detailed post on Ghat Ki Guni. It is one of the most striking alleys you can find in the pink city. The entire road is lined with beautiful chhatris or pavilions on either side. Almost every building on this road has a temple. It also has Charbagh style Mughal gardens, the most prominent of which is Sisodia Rani Garden. Recently, a heritage photo-walk was organized here to highlight this lesser-explored tourist attraction of Jaipur. It was a part of a photo-walk series being organized by the Department of Archaeology to spread awareness about offbeat attractions in Jaipur. I too joined this photo-walk as I had not visited Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh, lately. This ancient garden was a popular wedding venue in Jaipur for years until authorities decided otherwise.
Check out Ghat Ki Guni- In Class Of Its Own
70 photographers from Jaipur joined this photo-walk. It is interesting to see so many photographers together despite the fact that they all have a different background. Professional and amateur. Male and female. Young and old. There is only one passion that binds everyone together – photography. There are no rules to join these photo walks in Jaipur; it really doesn’t matter whether you click with a DSLR, point & shoot camera, or smartphone. All that one needs is love for photography.
History
Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II in 1710 AD for one of his queens, called Sisodia Rani and hence it is called so. She was the princess of the Sisodia Rajput clan that ruled Mewar ( Udaipur) region of Rajasthan. Rani means queen in Hindi. Since she was from Sisodia clan people fondly called her Sisodia Rani.
This place played a silent role in the history of Jaipur. Sisodia Rani wanted a separate dwelling unit from the rest of the queens residing at Janana Dyodi in Amer Fort. The king agreed & he built this place for her. There was another condition attached to her marriage. The son born to her would become heir to the throne bypassing any other claimant. As per prevalent practice eldest son was eligible for the accession. It is clear that she considered herself superior to all other queens of Jai Singh II and demanded a treatment most befitting. She gave birth to Sawai Mado Singh I but with the turn of events, it was Ishwari Singh who became the ruler of Jaipur which led to long years of battle for accession between brothers. Madho Singh, I collaborated with Marathas and attacked Jaipur. Fate had other plans! Ishwari Singh committed suicide and Madho Singh-I finally became the king of Jaipur. This garden predates the founding of Jaipur by 17 years. Just for reference, it was Ishwari Singh who built Isar Laat near Jantar Mantar.
Architecture & Layout
Sisodia Rani Garden is a visual treat for heritage and architecture lovers as it is built in Rajput style adorned with murals & flanked with Chhatris in various styles. The garden, on the other hand, is built in Charbagh style. Where else can you find a Mughal garden with Rajput architecture?
The layout of the garden is in Charbagh style spread over three tiers. To the uninitiated Charbagh concept was introduced in India by Mughals. Originating in the Middle East, probably Persia, it consists of equal size four gardens with water channels & fountains running in between.
Charbagh concept is derived from the Quran which mentions four gardens of paradise. The most prominent Charbagh style gardens in India are in Srinagar, Delhi, and Agra (Taj Mahal). Although the concept is foreign to Indian culture & religion long rule of Mughals in India did influence local architecture and culture. Kachhawa Rajput clan which ruled Jaipur had a close association with Mughals as they fought many wars as their army general. This led to a strong Mughal influence in local architecture at both Amer and Jaipur.
The garden has undergone renovation over the last few years and some elements look out of place. This idol is one such piece because it is certainly not a local style.
I often wonder if renovating a heritage site is a good idea? Well, there is no option if we want to keep our legacy for future generations but at the same time, we need to keep in mind that it should blend well with the overall concept and theme.
I need to mention here that whoever designed this garden 300 years ago ensured that the staircase is not visible from any of the levels. It has been designed in a way that it remains concealed.
Another interesting element to watch out is murals. The walls of the palace section are hand-painted in local style. These paintings cover the entire building and this definitely makes it one of its kind in Jaipur.
Krishna is a popular theme that can be seen here. Apart from this, certain wall sections have a strong local influence & design. Both Jaipur and Mewar rulers were ardent fans of Lord Krishna. I have no clue whether these walls were originally covered in a similar pattern as these have been done under a restoration project.
These Jharokas have witnessed better days when it was a royal abode. It is just a tourist attraction now! Somethings have not changed despite the passing of three centuries. Life is still tough for the common man.
The palace section is closed for the visitors. This enclosure made with a wooden frame and glass seems to have been a later addition when it was being let out as a wedding venue.
Personally, I don’t think it’s a good idea because it ruins its original character. Closing off the palace section robs the experience. In my opinion, the palace section should be open to visitors. It will certainly increase its appeal and it will be worth the money.
Have you read a related post on Galtaji Monkey Temple?
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Check out other Photo-Walks in Jaipur
Sisodia Rani Garden is not a huge garden unlike the ones in Srinagar, Kashmir. Heritage buildings are always a big attraction among travelers and tourists. You are unlikely to find a similar garden anywhere else except Jaipur. The only notable one worth mentioning here is Sahelion Ki Bari in Udaipur but its layout is quite different. Have you been there or heard about it? In my opinion, Sisodia Rani Garden is an offbeat destination in Jaipur that every explorer must visit.
How to reach?
You can club your visit with Galtaji or Monkey Temple in Jaipur. This garden is in the Ghat Ki Guni area. Ghat Ki Guni is 15-20 minutes drive from Johari Bazaar.
Best time to visit
In winters, it can be visited throughout the day however during summers it is best visited during the early morning. Sisodia Rani Garden Timing is from 8 AM to 8 PM. There are plans to make it accessible under the night tourism scheme as well. Entry Fee for Indians is Rs 50 and Rs 200 for foreign tourists.
JaipurThruMyLens 
Beautiful shots. I think going on a guided walk is a great idea. Get some history, meet other people. Enjoyed the pictures of you taking pictures of other photographers!
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Thanks. It’s not really a guided walk but it’s nice to do things for a change. Have you ever been on a photo-walk?
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Truly Beautiful place. Thanks for your informative post on Rani Ka Bagh. Loved all Pics.
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Thanks, Rupam. I’m glad you liked it 🙂
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Jaipur has always been known for its rich heritage and culture, and the beauty can be now be seen through your lens. Amazing pictures Arv! 👍 🙂
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Thanks, Himanshi for appreciating. I guess our blog names have something in common 🙂
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Ohh yes, I just noticed that. Only difference being you have the big Jaipur city to capture through your lens, and I just have my small beautiful world to capture through my eyes. 😋
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Our world is as big or as small as we make it, Himanshi. You have the whole world to capture. 😃 BTW, in which city do you reside?
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Jamshedpur, a city known for its greenery and cleanness contrary of the huge Tata steel plants and other industries. I love my city for this contrast. ❤😊
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Wow! That’s great 👍😊
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I love the decorative elements of the architecture and pictographs. Must have been a peaceful setting!
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Thanks, Susie! Indeed, it is architectural elements which make it stand apart from other places. Happy to know you liked this offbeat attraction in Jaipur. 🙂
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As always, awesome pics, Arv! Thanks for sharing them with all of us!
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I’m happy you liked these pictures, Lisa. Thanks for sharing your views. 😃
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You always take such beautiful photos Arv!
I also really loved the photos of people taking photos. It’s so nice how many people get to enjoy the prettiness!
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Thanks, Josypheen 😃 Happy to know you liked these pictures.
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Wow! That’s pretty cool and nice photos!! 😀
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Thank you. I’m happy you liked it 😃
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Beautiful clicks. the chhatris on both sides of the road have really made it picturesque. The murals still look colourful and vibrant. I think, most of the ancient forts and similar types of architecture contain such hidden staircases/tunnels which remain hidden from the normal eyesight. It’s quite interesting.
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Thanks, Maniparna. It’s interesting to note that visual aesthetics were considered important and so was symmetry. These murals were redone and are not the originally painted ones. Thanks for reading and appreciating. 😃
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Oh…I thought there is only structural renovation. Anyway, at least, they do not look out of the place… 🙂
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Maniparna, when the renovation is undertaken here, it includes every aspect. I agree, it doesn’t look out of place. 🙂
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I been to Jaipur so many times but yet to explore this place. Hopefully next time ☺️
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I’m sure you will like it, Sapna 🙂
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☺️
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This certainly sounded like a photowalk with people from all walks of life. If you like photography, then this is the photowalk for you I like how you captured photos of people taking photos – everyone seems to be immersed in the moment taking photos, and most importantly looking at Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh closely. The Sisodia Rani Garden looks very picturesque. The leaves and grass look so green, and I trust that there is such lush greenery in part of Jaipur. The idea of renovating a heritage site is an interesting one. Like you said, renovating it can ruin original character. But on the other hand if it’s not maintained, it might not last the test of time to come. Another great write up from you, Arv
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Fabulous images and an intriguing culture. Thanks for showing us!
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I’m glad you liked it, Nancy. Have you been to India?
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Gorgeous! I was in Jaipur late last year but didn’t manage to go here. I only visited Amer Fort and the monkey temple! I’ll have to check this place out if I go back 🙂
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You did pick some of the best places to visit in Jaipur. This garden is on way to the Monkey Temple. Anyways, do visit if you ever visit again. I hope you loved your Jaipur trip.
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Great post and good insights. I’ve visited Jaipur a long time ago and I definitely need to go back and visit these spots for a better view. Sisodia Rani Garden is on my bucket list now. It gives me an excuse for a return visit 😉
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You definitely should. I’m glad to know you have been to Jaipur. 😃 Was that more than a decade ago?
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Such a beautiful area, and lovely gardens and grounds! The one time I was able to visit India, we were more in the countryside driving through small towns. And *wow* was that an adventure. Our bus driver gave us the ride of our life and narrowly missed 3 accidents. 🙂
I look forward to seeing more and more of your pictures in the future! ~ Johanna
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Sorry to hear about your Indian misadventure, Johanna. I understand the road conditions are in a stark contrast with the one in your country. I hope someday you will be able to visit India again to explore Jaipur. Which country are you from? Which all places did you visit in India during your last trip?
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I am from the United States, and live in Tennessee. I was able to fly into Bangalore, and then took a bus about 5-6 hours north to a small town of Bhadravathi. I was part of a medical team and we offered free medical care to the people there.
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That was a noble work. I’m sure these kind of work must be quite satisfying. Yes, we have a long way to go to improve road safety work.
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p.s. I still have the beautiful red Sari I purchased there, plus a large wooden-like necklace with pink wooden flowers (it was a gift from the people there). Everyone was so friendly and kind; it was a wonderful adventure to see new places. And I’ll admit, I’m still jealous of the beautiful clothing that was worn. I never seen such vibrant colors and patterns anywhere here in the US. ~ Johanna
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Johanna, the biggest realisation is that poor people are often more warm and humane. They don’t mind sharing whatever they have with others. This may be because they often depend on each other to survive. Sari is a beautiful dress provided you know how to wear it. Unlike the western female attire it is much more tolerant towards body flaws we all have. 😋 people from West often notice the variety of colours in India. And frankly they all love this aspect. 😃
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Oh my .. such a beautil place, and the artwork, craft of the buildings – beautiful .. a wonderful share
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Stunning post Arvind bhai… One of my favourite places in Jaipur to go for aimless walks…
Best post on this place for the time to come… Great work as always for Jaipur
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This was a lovely walk. The restoration hasn’t robbed the place of its charms.
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Agreed. The place has been restored well except for maybe a thing or two. Thanks for sharing your opinion.
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I love the images, great job!
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Happy to hear this, Trudy 😊
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Had never even heard of this garden! WOW! Such pretty murals. And I know what you mean by the renovating bit. Sometimes I feel the same, but then it is better to renovate them rather than they going to ruins.
Loved the Char bagh concept. Very nicely explained! 🙂 Hope to take part in one such heritage tour next time I am there:)
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Divyakshi, I share the same opinion. We MUST maintain our heritage and our legacy. All I wanted to say was that we don’t have to go overboard with it. Want to join in? That will be awesome. 🙂
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