The Bibi Ka Maqbara, located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, is one of India’s most unique tourist attractions. Built in 1678 by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb as a mausoleum for his daughter, the Bibi Ka Maqbara is an impressive example of Mughal architecture. In many ways, the Bibi Ka Maqbara is similar to India’s iconic Taj Mahal, except that it is more modestly sized and not as elaborate. Its impressive features—including its impressive location, intricate architectural details, historical significance, and travel guide—make it a must-see destination for tourists interested in learning more about India’s rich cultural heritage and historical legacy. In this blog, we’ll explore interesting facts, information, and travel tips related to the Bibi Ka Maqbara. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about this captivating attraction, this blog is sure to have something for you. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. Bibi Ka Maqbara was built in 1678 by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, who was the sixth Mughal ruler and also the son of the famous Emperor Shah Jahan, who had built the Taj Mahal.
2. The name “Bibi Ka Maqbara” means “The Tomb of the Lady”. The Tomb was constructed in the memory of Aurangzeb’s beloved wife Dilras Banu Begum.
3. It was completed in 1678, and is the closest visual representation of the Taj Mahal as it was designed by a high-ranking architect, at the maximum expense of Aurangazeb.
4. It is not as big as the Taj Mahal, being only about two-thirds its size. However, it is still impressive in its own right.
5. The four minarets surrounding the main chamber are similar to those of the Taj Mahal, and there are intricately carved stone screens throughout.
6. Inside the chamber, Dilras Banu Begum was laid to rest in a marble cenotaph, covered in intricate designs and inscriptions.
7. The tomb is made of red sandstone, and is an excellent example of Mughal architecture.
8. The tomb is now a major tourist attraction in Aurangabad, and is one of the “Protected Monuments of Aurangabad” under the Archaeological Survey of India.
Bibi Ka Maqbara is a mausoleum located in the city of Aurangabad in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Built in the 17th century, it was commissioned by Azam Shah, son of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, in honor of his mother Rabia-ud-Daurani. The mausoleum has been described as a “dignified” replication of the Taj Mahal, and its design, along with its location atop a hill, has made it a popular tourist attraction in Aurangabad.
The mausoleum is situated in a sprawling 40-acre garden, and is enclosed by a high wall. The main structure stands in the center of the garden, built in the traditional Islamic style of white marble. The inner chamber of the mausoleum houses Rabia-ud-Daurani’s cenotaph, along with those of three other female relatives, and is topped by a domed pavilion, whose interior and exterior feature frescoes depicting floral and geometric motifs.
The surrounding garden also includes several additional structures, including a mosque, four minarets, a hammam, and a menagerie. Most of these are in ruins today, disfigured by time and vandalism.
Although it is a small replica of the Taj Mahal, Bibi Ka Maqbara is worth a visit if you are ever in Aurangabad. It serves as a reminder of the great Mughal architecture that dominated the Indian Subcontinent for centuries, and is a reminder of the glory that once was.
Bibi Ka Maqbara is a famous Mughal-style mausoleum located near Aurangabad in Maharashtra. It was built in the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in memory of his first wife, Dilras Banu Begum. Built with white marble and sandstone, the monument has a symmetrical plan and is considered a poor imitation of the Taj Mahal.
Today, Bibi Ka Maqbara has become a popular tourist destination in Aurangabad. Here is a guide on how to make the most of your visit to this remarkable monument.
Getting There:
Bibi Ka Maqbara is located 10 kilometers from the main city of Aurangabad. It can easily be reached by taxi from the city center or by a private car. There is also a local bus service from the Aurangabad Central Bus Station that goes to the monument.
Things to Do:
Take a leisurely walk around the breathtaking monument and marvel at the intricate Mughal-style carvings. Climb to the top terrace to get a stunning view of the main chamber.
Visit the nearby, historical Aurangabad Caves- a group of 24 rock-cut Buddhist caves dating back to the 6th and 8th centuries.
Visit the Salim Ali Lake which is close to the Maqbara and enjoy a boat ride across the lake. Also, spot some migratory birds and native species.
Stroll through the sprawling gardens that have been planted around Bibi Ka Maqbara or take a leisurely walk along the river Pushpaganga.
Visit the nearby Daultabad Fort for stunning views of the city. Enjoy a romantic sunset atop the hill fort.
Shop at the markets of Aurangabad around the Chhoti Dargah Chowk where you can buy souvenirs and artifacts.
Places to Eat:
Mughal Darbar Restaurant – This is a popular eatery specializing in Mughlai dishes like biryani, kebabs, tandoori naans, and more.
Sevananda – If you are looking for known vegetarian dishes, this restaurant is the place to go. Enjoy their delightful thalis or tandoori dishes.
Qureshi Kebab Corner – This is a great spot to enjoy delicious kebabs and tikkas. Enjoy them with some hot, freshly-made rotis.
Palaash- Situated at the Aurangabad Marriott, it is a fine-dining restaurant offering all-time favorites as well as Indian specialties.
These are some of the best things to do and places to eat in Aurangabad when you visit Bibi Ka Maqbara. Enjoy your trip!
Q. What is Bibi Ka Maqbara?
A. Bibi Ka Maqbara is a mausoleum located in the city of Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India. It was built in 1679 in the memory of Rabia-ud-Daurani, a Mughal queen and the wife of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
Q. Who built Bibi Ka Maqbara?
A. The mausoleum was built by Aurangzeb’s son, Azam Shah, in 1679 AD and is popularly known as the Dakkani Taj Mahal in reference to its resemblance to the Taj Mahal.
Q. Where is Bibi Ka Maqbara?
A. Bibi Ka Maqbara is located in the city of Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India. It is located about 6 km from the city centre and 6 km from Aurangabad Railway Station.
5 Mar, 2024
5 Mar, 2024