Bibi ka maqbara — Attraction in Maharashtra

Built in 1668 the Tomb of Rabia Durani or Bibi Ka Maqbara was erected by Azam Shah, the son of Aurangzeb to commemorate his mother Dilras Begum who was titled Rabia Durani post her death. Being the spitting image of the Taj Mahal, the mausoleum is also called the Taj of the Deccan or the Dakkhani Taj. The north of the country is dotted with the specimens of the Mughal architectural magnificence, Bibi Ka Maqbara stands as a lone soul in the southern part. It was Aurangzeb’s long-standing governorship of Aurangabad that the shrine came to exist in the city and is today one of the most famous historical monuments in Maharashtra.

Bibi Ka Maqbara History

The story of Dilras Banu is nothing short of a fairytale. Born in the Safavid royal family of Iran, princess Dilras was the daughter of Shahnawaz Khan who was the then viceroy of the state of Gujarat. She married Aurangzeb in 1637 thus becoming his first consort and wife. Together they had five children and after delivering her fifth child, Dilras died. Both Aurangzeb and his eldest son, Azam Shah couldn’t bear the loss of the most important woman in their lives. It is said that the father-son duo were grief stricken for months and it took great efforts for them to come out of the state of shock. It was then in 1668 that Azam Shah ordered for a mausoleum to be built for his beloved mother on the lines of Taj Mahal, which was the resting place of Banu’s mother-in-law and Aurangzeb’s mother, Mumtaz Mahal. Both the women died because of complications developed through childbirth.

Bibi Ka Maqbara Construction

The tomb was to be more splendid than the Taj itself but due to strict adherence to the tight budget allocated for the construction, the mausoleum could only result in an arduous emulation. The Mughal architects led great importance on having a stream passing by the structures they erected with a garden based on a Charbagh pattern. Bibi Ka Maqbara is no different. There was a time when River Kham could be seen flowing behind the tomb. The Maqbara also has a Charbagh-styled garden and it sits pretty right in the centre with structures in the four directions. To the north is a 12-door Baradari, south is where the main entrance is, to the west is a mosque and facing the east is Aina khana or the mirror chamber.

The white dome of the Maqbara has panels adorned with intricate designs of flowers. The maqbara is graced by four minarets on corners with stairs leading to the tomb on three sides. The pathways are decorated with trees on both the sides. There is a water pool along with octagonal-shaped cisterns and the centre of the pathway consists of 61 fountains and 488 ft long and 96 feet broad reservoirs.

Bibi Ka Maqbara Facts Rabia-ud-Durani, the title conferred to Dilras Banu Begum was attributed to an Iranian noble lady, Rabia Basra known for her benevolence. The marble for the construction of the mausoleum was sourced from the marble mines in Jaipur. Its cost of construction is estimated to be around Rs 6-7 lakh.It is believed that the marbles for the construction of the structure were carried in ox-pulled carts.

Bibi Ka Maqbara Timings

Bibi Ka Maqbara timings are 8 am to 8 pm.

Bibi Ka Maqbara Address

You can visit Bibi Ka Maqbara at Begumpura, Aurangabad, Maharashtra 431004. It is located approximately 3 km from the city centre.

Bibi Ka Maqbara Opening Days

Bibi Ka Maqbara is open on all days of the week between 8 in the morning till 8 in the evening which are the visiting hours...

Bibi Ka Maqbara, often called the “Taj of the Deccan”, is one of the most iconic monuments in Aurangabad and a must-visit for history lovers and travelers exploring Maharashtra. Built in the late 17th century by Prince Azam Shah in memory of his mother, Dilras Banu Begum, this mausoleum reflects Mughal architecture and bears resemblance to the Taj Mahal, though on a smaller and more modest scale. The structure is set amidst a large charbagh (Persian-style garden) with long water channels, fountains, and pathways lined with trees. The serene layout and symmetrical design make it a very photogenic place, especially during the early mornings or late evenings when the sunlight creates a beautiful glow on the dome and minarets. The central tomb rests on a high platform surrounded by four tall minarets, and though the upper portion uses plaster to resemble marble, the craftsmanship is elegant and detailed. Visitors can also view the actual grave chamber through an octagonal opening, which adds to the authenticity of the experience. Compared to the grandeur of the Taj Mahal, Bibi Ka Maqbara feels simpler, but that simplicity is what makes it special. It has a quiet charm, fewer crowds, and a more peaceful environment where one can sit, walk around, and admire the Mughal style without the overwhelming rush of larger monuments. There is also a small archaeological museum located behind the mausoleum that showcases artifacts and provides context about Aurangabad’s rich cultural past. The monument is well maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The gardens are clean, and pathways are in good condition, making it accessible for families, students, and even senior citizens. Local guides are available at the entrance if you wish to know more about the history and architectural details. Timings & Entry: The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, though many visitors suggest arriving before 6:30 PM as closing may happen earlier. The entry fee is very affordable at ₹25 for Indian citizens, while foreign tourists pay ₹300. Children up to 15 years can usually enter free. Location & Accessibility: Bibi Ka Maqbara is situated in Begumpura, about 5 km from Aurangabad railway station and roughly 11 km from the airport. It is easily accessible by auto, cab, or local bus. There is parking available near the entrance. Best Time to Visit: October to March is the ideal season, as the weather is pleasant for walking around the gardens. Summers can get hot, so mornings and evenings are preferable during that time. For photography, sunset hours provide the best lighting, with the monument glowing against the sky. Nearby Attractions: If you are in Aurangabad, you can combine this visit with the Aurangabad Caves, Panchakki, Ellora Caves, and even Ajanta if you have more time. This makes for a fulfilling heritage circuit in the region. Overall, Bibi Ka Maqbara is a wonderful blend of history, architecture, and tranquility. While it may not match the Taj Mahal’s scale, it has its own unique identity and is worth visiting for its peaceful atmosphere, historical significance, and scenic beauty. Highly recommended for anyone traveling...

"The Taj of the Deccan"

Location: Chatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Maharashtra Built by: Prince Azam Shah in 1668 In memory of: Dilras Banu Begum (Aurangzeb’s wife)

Overall Rating: 4/5

What Makes It Special:

Architectural Grandeur: Bibi Ka Maqbara closely resembles the Taj Mahal and is often referred to as its "twin" or "poor man's Taj." While not as intricate or vast as the Taj Mahal, it still impresses with its symmetry, Mughal domes, and delicate carvings.

Historical Significance: • Built during the reign of Aurangzeb, it reflects the continuation of Mughal architectural traditions, even during a period of austerity. It’s also one of the few grand Mughal structures in the Deccan.

• Built-in 1668-69 by price Azam shah in memory of his mother, Dilras Banu Begum, with architecture designed by Ata- ullah and Hanspat rai- Ata-ullah being the son of the Taj Mahal's

• Modeled after the Taj Mahal's ,it features marbale dome, minarets, Mughal-style charbagh gardens

Overall Verdict

Bibi Ka Maqbara is a beautiful and affordable heritage gem, showcasing late-Mughal charm with its balanced design and marble work. Ideal for history lovers and photographers, especially at twilight when the monument is softly illuminated.

But be aware—maintenance gaps, occasional broken fountains, limited accessibility, and dim lighting in some areas may detract from the experience. Still, for most visitors, the positives outweigh the negatives

Serene Atmosphere: Surrounded by well-kept gardens and fountains, it offers a peaceful ambiance that’s ideal for both sightseeing and quiet reflection.

Highlights:

White marble dome with floral motifs

Ornamental minarets at each corner

Enclosed by Charbagh-style gardens

Beautiful views at sunrise and sunset

Things to Consider:

Comparisons with the Taj Mahal: It’s natural to compare it with the Taj, but it’s smaller, with less refined marble work. However, it holds its own charm and historical value.

Maintenance: While the monument is in decent condition, some visitors feel the surrounding infrastructure and cleanliness could be improved

Tips for Visitors:

• Visit early morning or late afternoon for best lighting.

• Try a guided tour or audio guide to better understand the historical context.

• Combine your visit with other Aurangabad attractions like Aurangabad Caves, Daulatabad Fort, or Ellora Caves.

Final Thoughts:

Bibi Ka Maqbara is a hidden gem that tells a quieter story of love, legacy, and Mughal architecture. Though it stands in the shadow of the Taj Mahal, it deserves appreciation on its own merit. For history lovers and architecture enthusiasts, it's a must-visit in Maharashtra.

Final Recommendation

If you're in Aurangabad, make time for Bibi Ka Maqbara, especially during sunrise or sunset. Book your tickets online, bring your own refreshments, and prepare for a peaceful yet poignant experience—a testament to love, even in...