Vyas Chhatri is an assemblage of golden sandstones, which stands as an edifice of Rajasthani architecture. It was built in order to honour Sage Vyasa, who compiled the 300,000 verses of the epic Mahabharata. His cenotaph is situated on the north of the structure. It is popularly known as the city’s sunset point as it gives a birds-eye view of Jaisalmer. Located inside a structure called Bada Bagh in Jaisalmer, it is one of the most identifiable landmarks of the desert city.
It is situated on the northwestern edge of the town within a Brahmin Cemetery; the burial grounds of kings managed by the Royal family of Jaisalmer. The carvings and the elevated dome-shaped pavilions are a sight to behold. This elegant architecture of golden-hued sandstone over which the meticulously done intricate carvings is an awe-inspiring vision. Vyas Chhatri is a scenic spot for visitors who’d love to catch a sunset in a desert among the golden sandstone structures.
History of Vyas Chhatri
If you think cremation grounds are the most boring of places, you should go to Vyas Chhatri in Jaisalmer, and see the grandeur of its memorials.
The cenotaphs here are the most fabulous structures in Jaisalmer, and one of its major tourist attractions. Dedicated to Sage Vyas, who wrote the epic poem Mahabharata, Vyas Chhatri has beautiful memorials, and is a cremation ground for Brahmins.
The yellow sandstone cenotaphs are built on raised platforms, with intricately designed chhatris on top of finely chiseled pillars.
They are a striking example of Rajasthani architecture. Built on a hill, you could see the Golden Fort of Jaisalmer in the distance, and fascinating sunset views.
About Vyas Chhatri
One of the grandest of all memorials, the Vyas Chhatri presents exquisitely crafted cenotaphs presenting it as a wonderful tourist attraction.
This commemorative plaque is built in the memory of Sage Vyas who had written the epic Mahabharata and is a formal cremation ground for the Brahmins located in Jaisalmer.
The cenotaph dedicated to the Sage is situated north of the entire structure. These cenotaphs were made as a symbol of respect to the clans of the royal family after their death.
The cenotaphs are built of yellow sandstone with intricately designed chhatris placed on top of these pillars.
The grandeur and opulence of the chhatris and the pillars testify the evergreen Rajasthani architecture. The best architectural minds will be forced to think about how these structures were built?
The fine detailing, statistics and the material used must have been top-notch. The Chhatri is also popularly known as the sun-set point giving a one-shot view of the beautiful city of Jaisalmer. Vyas Chhatri is one of the most popular tourist attractions and landmarks in the city and is placed in another structure called Bada Bagh.
Talking about the structure, the intricate carvings of dome-shaped pavilions are mesmerizing in their appearance. A visit here will give you an enduring peace and calmness especially during sunsets.
Vyas Chhatri is a photographer’s delight and the perfect place to pose for your best shots especially in the evening.
If you are visiting Jaisalmer, then you should surely visit the Vyas Chhatri which is a place enveloped in calm and tranquillity.
Beauty of Cenotaphs-
The Vyas Chhatri is a strong reminder of the bravest souls who walked on this soil and is a proud reminder of India’s culture and rich craftsmanship.
The yellow sandstone Cenotaphs or chhatris are dome-shaped and will sway you the first time you see it.
The memorial structure was built for the fond remembrance of Rajput rulers and their families from the local garden sandstone. The place’s traditional Bhatti Rajput rulers built these cenotaphs to honour the contributions of their ancestors.
The delicate carvings on these cenotaphs are the best example of the true potential of Rajasthan architecture.
The umbrella-shaped dome is an excellent example of giving a rightful memorial to the Rajput war heroes, and esteemed members of the rich and wealthy Hindu Brahmin families.
How to Reach Vyas Chhatri
From Jaisalmer Bus stand-
The distance between the Vyas Chhatri and Jaisalmer’s main bus stand is a mere 1.7 km which takes roughly 8 minutes to reach. You can take local transport either by taking an auto-rickshaw, cycled rickshaw or cab so that you can reach your destination on time.
Best Time to Visit Vyas Chhatri
Keeping everything in mind, visiting Rajasthan and specifically Vyas Chhatri in Jaisalmer can be enjoyed the most during the winter months. These winter months fall between October and mid-February but you can still visit here till April.
We strongly forbid you from visiting here in summers because the agonizing heat might make it very difficult for you to enjoy your trip. Sandstorms are a common occurrence here in the summer, which makes it the least favorable time to visit here.
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