Bibi ka Maqbara

Built in the 1678, by Azam Shah, the son of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb , this mausoleum is the principal monument in the city. Literally translating into ‘Tomb of the Lady’, this fabulous structure is dedicated to Aurangzeb’s wife, Dilras Banu Begum. With its striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal, this monument is also known as the Dakkhani Taj or Taj of the Deccan. The chief architect of this monument is a Persian named Ata-ullah. The architecture is characteristically Mughal with the monument being in the centre of the ’Charbagh’ or a Persian style of garden layout. The walk from the entrance to the monument is lined by lush green lawns, fountains and well maintained gardens. The mausoleum itself has four minarets and stands on an elevated square platform with an onion dome on top. An architectural wonder, the monument is resplendent with elaborate carvings and magnificent motifs. The decoration of the tomb per se is simple and moderate. While it is often referred to as the "poor man's Taj", Bibi ka Maqbara has its own distinct splendor and grace giving it a unique personality which makes it a "must-visit".