The Taj Mahal, the symbol of eternal love and architectural brilliance, has inspired countless artists and builders across the world. While the original masterpiece in Agra continues to attract millions, there are several Taj Mahal replicas in India that beautifully echo its charm, design, and grandeur. These lesser-known monuments are a testament to India’s deep admiration for Mughal architecture and the enduring legacy of Shah Jahan’s vision.

In this article, we’ll take you through some of the most fascinating Taj Mahal replicas in India that you probably never knew existed each with its own captivating story and architectural wonder.

1. Bibi Ka Maqbara

Known as the ‘Mini Taj,’ Bibi Ka Maqbara in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, is one of the most famous replicas of the Taj Mahal. Built by Azam Shah, the son of Aurangzeb, in memory of his mother, Dilras Banu Begum, this mausoleum closely resembles the Taj Mahal’s design and structure.

Constructed in the late 17th century, Bibi Ka Maqbara features a grand dome, intricate marble work, and Mughal-style minarets that mirror its Agra counterpart. Although made using less expensive materials, its symmetrical gardens, water channels, and ornate carvings exude an aura of royal elegance. It is often referred to as the ‘Taj of the Deccan’ for its stunning resemblance and serene beauty.

2. Mini Taj Mahal in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh

A surprising discovery for many travelers, the Mini Taj Mahal in Bulandshahr was built by a local postmaster named Faizul Hasan Qadri in memory of his beloved wife, Tajammuli Begum. Deeply moved by the story of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz, Qadri dedicated his life savings to recreate a smaller version of the Taj Mahal as a symbol of love.

Although smaller in scale, this Bulandshahr Taj Mahal captures the emotional depth and architectural symmetry of the original. The structure features white marble, graceful arches, and a dome that reflects under the sun with captivating brilliance. It stands today not just as a monument, but as a living tale of devotion and romance.

3. Taj Mahal Replica in Kanti, Bihar

In the small town of Kanti in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, stands another Taj Mahal-inspired structure that has caught the attention of locals and tourists alike. Built by a retired teacher named Amjad Husain, this replica was also made in memory of his late wife. Although not as grand as the original, it beautifully mirrors the design ethos of the Agra monument, symbolizing love, remembrance, and artistry.

The Kanti Taj Mahal showcases how the architectural legacy of the Mughal era continues to inspire generations. Its delicate minarets and detailed facades make it a humble yet heartfelt tribute to the most iconic love story in history.

4. The Black Taj Mahal

One of the most intriguing tales associated with the Taj Mahal is that of the Black Taj Mahal, a monument Shah Jahan supposedly intended to build across the Yamuna River, made entirely of black marble, as his own tomb. Although never completed, remnants and myths surrounding this supposed project have inspired artists and architects to recreate what it might have looked like.

In Burhanpur (Madhya Pradesh) and Agra’s Mehtab Bagh, replicas of this mythical Black Taj Mahal have been envisioned, displaying the same symmetry and magnificence but with a darker, more mysterious allure. While these replicas may not hold the historical authenticity of the white Taj, they stand as powerful symbols of lost dreams and unfulfilled love.

5. The Taj Mahal of Kolkata

In the heart of Kolkata, West Bengal, businessman A. Rehman constructed a replica of the Taj Mahal in memory of his late wife. Built over a span of several years, this replica was created using real Makrana marble, the same material used in the original monument.

This Taj Mahal of Kolkata not only mirrors the grandeur of Agra’s masterpiece but also promotes local craftsmanship and tourism. Rehman’s creation became a beacon of devotion and a modern-day tribute to the spirit of eternal love that defines the original Taj Mahal.

6. The Glass Taj Mahal in Mysuru

In Mysuru (Karnataka), there exists a breathtaking Glass Taj Mahal replica inside the famous Chamundi Hill Wax Museum. This version, made primarily of glass and crystal, offers a futuristic and artistic reinterpretation of the Mughal marvel. The structure glimmers under the lights, creating a mesmerizing visual effect that captures the imagination of every visitor.

The Glass Taj Mahal is a celebration of modern artistry and innovation, blending traditional inspiration with contemporary materials a striking example of how timeless design can evolve through creativity.

7. Taj Mahal Replica in Madurai

The city of Madurai in Tamil Nadu also boasts a modern-day Taj Mahal replica built as part of a luxury hotel’s architecture. The replica, designed to offer guests a royal Mughal experience, includes intricate carvings, marble-like finishes, and dome-inspired ceilings that evoke the grandeur of the original.

This southern interpretation of the Taj Mahal reflects India’s diverse architectural adoption, a seamless blend of cultural appreciation and modern luxury that makes it an architectural attraction in its own right.

8. Taj Mahal Replica in Dubai by Indian Architects

Although not in India, it’s worth mentioning the stunning Taj Arabia project in Dubai, which was conceptualized by Indian architects. This ambitious project aims to recreate the Taj Mahal as a grand hotel and wedding destination, symbolizing how India’s architectural legacy continues to inspire the world.

Expected to feature white marble facades and ornate Mughal detailing, Taj Arabia showcases the global admiration for India’s cultural heritage, proving that the essence of the Taj transcends borders.

The Enduring Legacy of the Taj Mahal

From Aurangabad’s Bibi Ka Maqbara to Bulandshahr’s love-inspired monument, each of these replicas tells a unique story of devotion, art, and cultural pride. They remind us that the Taj Mahal is not just a monument; it’s a symbol of love and timeless beauty that continues to inspire builders, lovers, and dreamers across centuries.

The replicas of the Taj Mahal in India are not mere imitations but heartfelt tributes, each carrying the essence of passion and craftsmanship that the original represents. Whether you visit the marble majesty in Agra or its reflections across India, each structure invites you to relive the poetic romance of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal.

Final Thoughts

Exploring these hidden Taj Mahal replicas across India offers a deeper connection to the nation’s artistic and emotional heritage. Each monument reflects not only the grandeur of Mughal architecture but also the universal human desire to immortalize love through creation.

If you’re planning your next cultural journey, make sure to add these Taj Mahal-inspired destinations to your itinerary and experience the magic of love, marble, and memory in every corner of India.