15 Replicas of the TAJ MAHAL All Around The World
The Taj Mahal, an iconic symbol of love and an architectural masterpiece, has captivated the world with its grandeur and beauty. As one of the most recognized landmarks in India, it has become an inspiration for countless replicas of the Taj Mahal found all around the world. These replicas of Taj Mahal serve as a tribute to the original marvel, showcasing the enduring legacy of Mughal architecture and the enchanting allure of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
TAJ MAHAL – An Introduction
The Taj Mahal in Agra, India, is an iconic mausoleum celebrated for its architectural brilliance and romantic history. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, this mesmerizing structure stands as a testament to undying love. Its gleaming white marble exterior, intricate detailing, and symmetrical design have captivated the world, earning it a spot on the list of New Seven Wonders of the World and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Read More…
Replicas Of The TAJ MAHAL
From distant lands to local attractions, replicas of the Taj Mahal have sprung up in various countries, each offering a glimpse into the majesty of this wonder. Whether it’s a miniature replica in a museum or a grand-scale replica adorning a cityscape, these tributes to the Taj Mahal provide visitors with a chance to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the original. Each replica strives to capture the essence of the Taj Mahal’s symmetrical design, intricate details, and the ethereal glow that emanates from its pristine white marble, making it a true testament to the global admiration for this architectural gem.
In this blog post, we explore 15 replicas of the Taj Mahal found across the globe, each offering a unique glimpse into the enduring allure of this architectural marvel.
#1 Bibi Ka Maqbara
Bibi ka Maqbara, often referred to as the “Taj of the Deccan,” situated in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India, is a stunning mausoleum that holds a resemblance to the iconic Taj Mahal. Built between 1651 and 1661, it was commissioned by Prince Azam Shah, the son of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, as a tribute to his mother, Dilras Banu Begum. While often referred to as the “poor man’s Taj,” Bibi ka Maqbara possesses its own charm and architectural beauty. Designed by the Persian architect Ata-ullah, the mausoleum features a white marble facade adorned with intricate floral patterns and delicate stone carvings.
Despite its smaller size and simpler construction compared to the Taj Mahal, Bibi ka Maqbara showcases a harmonious blend of Mughal and local architectural styles, making it a noteworthy historical monument in India.
#2 Taj Arabia
Taj Arabia, located in Dubai, UAE, is a mesmerizing architectural marvel that stands as one of the remarkable replicas of the Taj Mahal. Inspired by the iconic monument in Agra, India, Taj Arabia aims to recreate the grandeur and beauty of its namesake. This extravagant structure, designed to be a luxury hotel and entertainment complex, showcases a magnificent white marble exterior adorned with intricate carvings and domed minarets. Taj Arabia captures the essence of Mughal architecture while adding its own unique touches. With its opulent interiors, expansive gardens, and breathtaking views, Taj Arabia offers visitors a chance to experience a taste of India’s rich heritage and the splendor of the Taj Mahal on a grand scale.
Taj Arabia, the replica of the Taj Mahal in Dubai, is notably larger than the original Taj Mahal in Agra, India. While the Taj Mahal measures approximately 73 meters (240 feet) in height and 58 meters (190 feet) in width, Taj Arabia boasts even more impressive dimensions. The Dubai replica stands at a towering height of around 111 meters (364 feet) and spans a width of approximately 116 meters (380 feet). This significant increase in size allows Taj Arabia to create a more expansive and grandiose experience for visitors, amplifying the awe-inspiring nature of the iconic Taj Mahal.
#3 Taj Mahal Bangladesh
Taj Mahal Bangladesh, located in Sonargaon, Narayanganj, is a stunning architectural gem that replicates the iconic Taj Mahal of India. Built by a wealthy filmmaker, Ahsanullah Moni, as a symbol of love for his late wife, Taj Mahal Bangladesh pays homage to the original masterpiece while adding its own unique charm.
This enchanting replica showcases intricate marble work, delicate carvings, and a symmetrical design that closely resembles the Taj Mahal in Agra. Set amidst lush gardens and serene surroundings, Taj Mahal Bangladesh provides visitors with a chance to experience the timeless beauty and romance of the Taj Mahal on a smaller scale. It stands as a testament to the enduring global admiration for this architectural marvel and serves as a cherished attraction in Bangladesh.
#4 The Taj Mahal in China
The Taj Mahal of China is an awe-inspiring attraction nestled within the Window of the World theme park, located in Shenzhen, Guangdong province. This remarkable replica pays homage to the iconic Taj Mahal of India, captivating visitors with its grandeur and architectural splendor. Situated amidst meticulously manicured gardens, the Taj Mahal of China features a majestic white marble exterior adorned with intricate detailing and ornate minarets.
Inside, visitors can explore a recreation of the Taj Mahal’s interior chambers, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and artistic design. This remarkable homage within the Window of the World theme park offers visitors a chance to marvel at the magnificence of the Taj Mahal’s beauty and experience a taste of India’s rich cultural heritage without leaving China.
#5 Floating home Taj Mahal in California
Taj Mahal Houseboat, located in Sausalito, California, is a unique and fascinating attraction. The Taj Mahal home is one of the most famous houseboats in Sausalito. The story behind its creation adds to its charm.
In the mid-1970s, during his trip to India, entrepreneur Bill Harlan was so inspired by the Taj Mahal that he decided to create a replica in California. Upon his return to California, he embarked on the construction of the Taj Mahal Houseboat, which was a rendition of the Taj Mahal on a boat. According to reports, he drew inspiration from his travels in Kashmir and the picturesque Dal Lake.
Today, the Taj Mahal Houseboat became a unique attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to experience a taste of the architectural wonder of the Taj Mahal while cruising along the waters of California.
#6 Royal Pavilion, Brighton
The Royal Pavilion, known for its replicas of the Taj Mahal, is a remarkable architectural gem located in Brighton, United Kingdom. This grand structure, also referred to as the Brighton Mandap was designed in the Indo-Saracenic style, reminiscent of the iconic Taj Mahal in India. With its striking domes, minarets, and intricate detailing, the Royal Pavilion stands as a testament to the cross-cultural influences that shaped British architecture and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the splendor of a Taj Mahal replica in a British setting.
The Royal Pavilion was built as a royal residence for George, Prince of Wales, who later became King George IV of the United Kingdom. He commissioned the construction of the Royal Pavilion in the early 19th century as a seaside retreat and a grand symbol of his extravagant lifestyle. The Prince of Wales was enamored with the exotic and luxurious styles prevalent in India at the time, which inspired the unique Indo-Saracenic design of the Royal Pavilion.
#7 Mahabat Maqbara
The Nawabs of Junagadh, Gujarat, India, constructed Mahabat Maqbara in the 18th century. It’s a palace-mausoleum that combines Islamic, Hindu, and European architectural styles. The structure resembles replicas of the Taj Mahal but has its own unique appearance. Nawab Mahabat Khan II began its construction in 1878, and it was completed in 1892 under Nawab Bahadur Khan III. Inside, you can find the grave of Mahabat Khan II.
Mahabat Maqbara showcases intricate carvings and ornate designs, attracting visitors who appreciate its artistic and historical significance. The mausoleum reflects the Babi dynasty’s rule in Junagadh and stands as a testament to the region’s cultural diversity. Tourists from around the world visit this magnificent site to admire its craftsmanship and grandeur.
#8 Al-Hakim Padang Mosque
Al-Hakim Padang Mosque is a Taj Mahal-style Mosque located on the coast of Padang City, West Sumatra, Indonesia. Construction of the mosque began in 2017 and was completed in 2020.
In 2016, a donor expressed the intention to build a mosque by the beach. The local government facilitated the project by relocating street vendors to a new location, allowing for the construction of the mosque. The mosque can accommodate up to 600 worshipers.
#9 Taj Mahal, Bulandshahr
Taj Mahal Bulandshahr, more popular as Qadri’s Taj Mahal or Maqbara Yadgare Mohabbat Tajammuli Begum, is also among the replicas of the Taj Mahal in Agra. It is situated in Kaser Kalan, a small village in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, India. Faizul Hasan Qadri, an 81-year-old retired postmaster, built this tribute to his late wife, Tajamulli Begum, who sadly passed away from throat cancer in 2011.
The construction of Qadri’s Taj Mahal required a total expense of Rs 15 lakh. To gather funds, Faizul Hasan Qadri sold a plot of land for ₹6 lakh and his wife’s jewelry for ₹1.5 lakh. Despite being offered financial assistance by the then Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, Qadri declined the offer, opting to finance the project from his personal savings. Unfortunately, due to insufficient finances, the construction of Qadri’s ‘Taj Mahal’ had to be halted.
In June 2017, news surfaced that Faizul Hasan Qadri donated his last remaining piece of land for a government school for girls, even though his own ‘Taj Mahal’ project remained incomplete. Tragically, Faizul Hasan Qadri lost his life in a road accident on November 9, 2018. He was laid to rest beside his wife in the Maqbara Yadgare Mohabbat Tajammuli Begum, which he had built in Kaser Kalan village of Bulandshahr.
#10 Ramlie Musofa Mosque, Jakarta
The Ramlie Musofa Mosque is located in North Jakarta, within the Special Capital Region of Jakarta. It was built in 2011 by the Ramli Rasidin family and officially inaugurated in May 2016 by Prof. Dr. Nasaruddin Umar. The architectural style of this mosque draws inspiration from the Taj Mahal in India, incorporating elements from Malay, Arabic, and Chinese cultures to create a harmonious blend.
Haji Ramlie Rasidin led the construction of the mosque, which took around 5 years to complete. The lengthy timeframe was due in part to the sourcing of materials, including imports from Turkey and Italy. The use of slippery marble required careful handling, and the stones were brought in gradually rather than all at once to ensure proper installation.
Other Taj Mahal replicas and derivatives
#11 China Hui Culture Park
#12 Trump Taj Mahal Casino, New Jersey
#13 Jaime Duque Park, Bogota, Colombia
#14 Siddiqa Fatima Zahra Mosque, Kuwait
#15 Tripoli Shrine Temple in Wisconsin, USA
SUMMARY - Replicas of the Taj Mahal
In this blog post, we delve into the captivating world of replicas of the Taj Mahal. From distant corners of the globe, we discover 15 awe-inspiring structures inspired by the iconic monument of love. These replicas, found in various countries, pay homage to the Taj Mahal’s architectural splendor and cultural significance.
Each replica has its own distinct interpretation, combining elements of the original design with local influences. Whether it’s the Ramlie Musofa Mosque in Jakarta or Qadri’s Taj Mahal in Bulandshahr, these replicas offer a glimpse into the universal allure of the Taj Mahal.
Through this virtual journey, we witness the dedication and craftsmanship poured into constructing these tributes. These replicas serve as reminders of the enduring legacy of the Taj Mahal, allowing visitors to experience its enchantment in different corners of the world.
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