Back
Bibi Ka Maqbara — The "Mini Taj Mahal" of Aurangabad
Tourist Special Point

Bibi Ka Maqbara — The "Mini Taj Mahal" of Aurangabad

1 min read · 10 Jul 2026

Bibi Ka Maqbara is a grand mausoleum built in the 1660s by Prince Azam Shah, son of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, in memory of his mother Dilras Banu Begum — its resemblance to the Taj Mahal has earned it the popular nickname "Mini Taj Mahal."

Design and Construction

The monument was clearly designed to echo the Taj Mahal's form — a central domed structure set within a formal charbagh garden with reflecting water channels — but built on a more modest budget, with marble cladding used only on the lower portion and the dome, while the rest is finished in plaster.

What to See

Beyond the main tomb, the surrounding gardens, fountains, and the gateway itself are worth taking time over — the symmetry and layout reward a slow walk rather than a quick photo stop at the entrance.

A Quieter Alternative to the Taj

While it doesn't match the scale or marble finish of its more famous namesake in Agra, Bibi Ka Maqbara offers a similar architectural experience with a fraction of the crowds, making for a relaxed visit, especially at dusk when the monument is lit.

Location Guide

From: Aurangabad, Maharashtra

Safety Guide

  • Carry a copy of your ID and keep emergency contacts handy while traveling.
  • Book your vehicle through a verified owner and confirm the fare and route before starting.
  • Carry water and comfortable footwear — many attractions involve a fair amount of walking.
  • Check the site's current visiting hours before you leave, as these can change seasonally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Because it was deliberately designed in the same architectural style as the Taj Mahal — a domed mausoleum in a formal garden — built by a Mughal prince for his mother, though on a smaller scale and budget.

No — only the lower section and the dome are finished in marble; the upper structure uses plaster finished to resemble marble, a cost-saving choice compared to the Taj Mahal.

Late afternoon into evening, when the light is softer and the monument is often illuminated after dark.

Most destinations in this region are best visited between October and March, when the weather is cool and comfortable for sightseeing. Summers (April-June) can be quite hot, and the monsoon (July-September) brings lush greenery but also slippery conditions at hill, fort, and cave sites — always check local conditions before you travel.

Aurangabad is accessible by road, with verified local vehicle owners on MeraYatri offering self-drive and with-driver cars, SUVs, and tempo travelers, as well as by regular public bus and train services to the nearest major town.

Yes — verified local owners list vehicles serving Aurangabad on MeraYatri. Check the "Vehicles" section on this page, or search for rides to Aurangabad directly on the site.

Yes, with reasonable precautions — see the Safety Guide section on this page for specific tips to keep in mind before and during your trip.

Vehicles based in Aurangabad

Swift Dezire

Sedan · 4 seats

by Swaraj Tours and Travels

₹13.00/km

View Details

Toyota Etios

Sedan · 4 seats

by Shree Waheguru Travels

₹0.00/km

View Details

Swift Dezire

Sedan · 4 seats

by Shree Waheguru Travels

₹13.00/km

View Details

Honda Amaze

Hatchback · 4 seats

by Shree Waheguru Travels

₹0.00/km

View Details

Innova Crysta

SUV · 7 seats

by Shree Waheguru Travels

₹0.00/km

View Details

Innova Hycross

SUV · 7 seats

by Shree Waheguru Travels

₹0.00/km

View Details

Tempo Traveller

Tempo Traveler · 12 seats

by Shree Waheguru Travels

₹0.00/km

View Details

Related Travel Guides