🕌 Introduction
Did you know that Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad) is home to its own version of the Taj Mahal? Known as Bibi Ka Maqbara, this stunning white mausoleum is a hidden Mughal-era gem and one of Maharashtra’s most visited monuments.
If you’re traveling to Aurangabad, here’s everything you need to know about visiting Bibi Ka Maqbara – also called the Mini Taj Mahal of the Deccan.
🏛️ Quick Facts About Bibi Ka Maqbara
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Built by Azam Shah in 1660 AD, son of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb
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Constructed in memory of his mother Dilras Banu Begum
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Often called the Taj of the Deccan for its resemblance to Agra’s Taj Mahal
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Made with white marble and decorated with intricate Mughal designs
🕰️ Timings & Entry Fees (2025)
| Category | Timings | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Open Days | Daily (All days) | – |
| Visiting Hours | 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM | – |
| Indian Citizens | – | ₹25 |
| Foreign Nationals | – | ₹300 |
| Children (Below 15) | – | Free |
| Photography (Mobile) | Allowed | Free |
| DSLR/Camera Fee | – | ₹25 extra |
📍 How to Reach Bibi Ka Maqbara
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🚗 By Cab: Just 4–5 km from Aurangabad Railway Station or City Center
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🛵 By Bike/Auto: Easily reachable by rickshaw
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📍 Use Google Maps: “Bibi Ka Maqbara, Aurangabad”
For guided tours, you can book a city package with Mauli Tours & Travel.
🏗️ Architecture & Design
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Inspired by Taj Mahal, but smaller in scale and budget
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Constructed using white marble from Rajasthan and black basalt for the base
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Surrounded by beautiful Mughal-style gardens and water fountains
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Four towering minarets and an elegant central dome
💡 Did you know? Though inspired by Shah Jahan’s Taj Mahal, Bibi Ka Maqbara was built at a fraction of the cost.
📸 Photography Tips
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Best time for photos: Early morning (8–10 AM) or Evening golden hour (5–6:30 PM)
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Carry wide-angle lens or mobile for full-frontal dome shots
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Try to capture the reflection of the Maqbara in the water channel
🎒 Travel Tips for Visitors
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Avoid visiting during weekends or school holidays due to crowd
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Wear comfortable footwear – you need to remove them near the main tomb
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Stay hydrated – carry a water bottle, especially in summer
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Ideal visit duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
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Combine with a visit to Aurangabad Caves (just 2 km away)
🌆 Nearby Attractions (Within 5–10 km)
| Place | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Aurangabad Caves | 2 km | Buddhist rock-cut caves |
| Panchakki | 4 km | Water-powered flour mill |
| Himayat Bagh | 5 km | Mughal-era garden and nursery |
| Siddharth Garden & Zoo | 6 km | Family-friendly outing |
📅 Best Time to Visit
| Season | Experience |
|---|---|
| October–March | Best season – Pleasant weather |
| April–June | Hot, visit early morning/evening |
| July–September | Green gardens but may rain |
📖 Historical Significance
Unlike the grand monuments built by Shah Jahan or Akbar, Bibi Ka Maqbara stands as one of the few architectural contributions of Aurangzeb’s lineage, who was known more for his simplicity than luxury.
This makes the Maqbara a symbol of filial love and Mughal austerity – a rare combination.
📞 Plan Your Visit with Mauli Tours & Travel
We offer:
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🛺 Local sightseeing tours covering Bibi Ka Maqbara, Caves & Forts
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🚖 Cab services with AC and experienced drivers
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🏨 Customizable packages with hotel and pickup
🧳 Final Thoughts
Bibi Ka Maqbara may not match the Taj Mahal in size, but it’s no less magical. With its rich history, symmetrical beauty, and peaceful gardens, it deserves a spot on every traveler’s list while exploring Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar.
Don’t forget to take a group photo with the stunning white dome in the background – a memory for a lifetime!