Chhoti Dargah Maner
A stunning example of Mughal architecture in Bihar, featuring intricate sandstone carvings and the tomb of Sufi saint Makhdoom Shah Daulat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Chhoti Dargah Maner
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning example of Mughal architecture in Bihar, featuring intricate sandstone carvings and the tomb of Sufi saint Makhdoom Shah Daulat.
"This is the most beautiful Mughal-style building in Bihar. You can compare it with Fahpur Sikri."
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders & knees. Traditional Indian attire is comfortable and respectful. :womaninturban:
Photography Spots
Capture the intricate carvings and Mughal architecture. Golden hour offers beautiful light. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Makhdoom Shah Daulat's Tomb
Central chamber
Exquisite Mughal-style tomb built of Chunar sandstone, adorned with intricate carvings of flowers and geometric patterns.
Architectural Marvel
Entire complex
A stunning example of Mughal architecture in Bihar, comparable to Fatehpur Sikri, featuring beautiful latticed windows and a raised platform.
Meditative Underground Chamber
Beneath the main tomb
A mysterious underground room, believed to be a meditation space for Shah Daulat, now accessible through an iron door.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Respectful Attire
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders & knees. Traditional Indian attire is comfortable and respectful. :womaninturban:
Photography Spots
Capture the intricate carvings and Mughal architecture. Golden hour offers beautiful light. :camerawithflash:
Historical Significance
Learn about Sufi saints Makhdoom Yahya Maneri & Shah Daulat. A key learning site in medieval Bihar. :books:
Nearby Attractions
Combine with a visit to Bari Dargah for a fuller historical experience. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders & knees. Traditional Indian attire is comfortable and respectful. :womaninturban:
Photography Spots
Capture the intricate carvings and Mughal architecture. Golden hour offers beautiful light. :camerawithflash:
Historical Significance
Learn about Sufi saints Makhdoom Yahya Maneri & Shah Daulat. A key learning site in medieval Bihar. :books:
Nearby Attractions
Combine with a visit to Bari Dargah for a fuller historical experience. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Chhoti Dargah Maner for its stunning Mughal architecture, intricate sandstone carvings, and historical significance as the tomb of Sufi saint Makhdoom Shah Daulat. The serene atmosphere and unique underground chamber are also highlighted as points of interest. Some note that it's a visiting place with many graves, emphasizing its religious and historical context.
"It's a visiting place, where many Kabras" are there"
Parmod Kumar
"Weekend getaways"
Aditya Priyadarshi
"✊"
Ashutosh Kumaar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chhoti Dargah Maner is located about 24 km west of Patna, the capital of Bihar, accessible via NH-922. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Patna to Maner Sharif. :bus: :taxi:
Hiring a private car or taxi from Patna is a convenient option, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Local buses are also available but might be less comfortable. :car:
Yes, Maner Sharif is connected by road and can be reached by local buses from Patna. The journey takes approximately 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. :bus:
Limited parking is usually available near the Dargah complex. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. :parking:
The distance is approximately 24 kilometers (about 15 miles) west of Patna. :round_pushpin:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Chhoti Dargah Maner is generally free. However, donations are welcome and appreciated by the management. :moneybag:
The Dargah is typically open from early morning until sunset. It's best to visit during daylight hours to appreciate the architecture. :clock1:
Yes, Chhoti Dargah Maner is open to visitors throughout the week. However, it can get crowded on Fridays and weekends. :calendar:
No, advance booking is not required as there is no entry fee. You can visit anytime during opening hours. :ticket:
Yes, visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing clothing. :womaninturban:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the complex, but it's respectful to avoid taking pictures of people without their consent. :camerawithflash:
The intricately carved tomb, the latticed windows, and the overall Mughal architecture provide excellent photo opportunities. The raised platform offers a good vantage point. :camerawithflash:
Early mornings or late afternoons, during the 'golden hour,' offer the best natural light for photography, enhancing the beauty of the sandstone structure. :sunriseovermountains:
Drone photography is usually not permitted at religious sites to ensure the privacy and sanctity of the place. Always check local regulations. :noentrysign:
Photography inside the underground chamber might be restricted due to low light and its historical significance. It's best to inquire on-site. :camerawithflash:
🎫 📜 History & Architecture
Chhoti Dargah Maner is the tomb of Sufi saint Makhdoom Shah Daulat, who died in 1608. His wife is buried before him, and Governor Ibrahim Khan's grave is nearby. :scroll:
The Dargah is a prime example of Mughal architecture, built with Chunar sandstone. Its intricate carvings and design are often compared to Fatehpur Sikri. :building_construction:
The tomb of Makhdoom Shah Daulat was completed in 1616, and the associated mosque was built in 1619. :calendar:
The underground chamber is believed to have been used by Shah Daulat for meditation. It's a unique feature of the complex. :pray:
During the medieval period, Maner Sharif was an important center for learning in Bihar, particularly for Sufi traditions. :mortar_board:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to visit during cooler parts of the day to ensure comfort for children. Pack water and snacks, as dining options immediately around the Dargah might be limited. The historical context can be simplified for younger children, focusing on the stories of the saints and the beautiful building.
🕌 Religious Visitors
+1Remember to dress modestly and maintain decorum within the sacred space. Fridays are particularly significant for prayers. Many visitors find the spiritual ambiance of the Dargah to be deeply moving and a source of peace.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Aim for the golden hour – early morning or late afternoon – for the most dramatic and beautiful lighting that accentuates the textures and details of the sandstone. The raised platform provides a good vantage point for capturing the entire complex. Be mindful of other visitors and maintain respectful photography practices.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Splendor of Chhoti Dargah
The building features elegant latticed windows, known as 'jaalis,' which not only allow for ventilation but also create mesmerizing patterns of light and shadow within the interior. The tomb itself is situated in a central round room, with the graves of Makhdoom Shah Daulat and his wife meticulously placed. Governor Ibrahim Khan's grave is also located within the complex, near Daulat Shah's feet. The mosque, built a few years after the tomb, complements the overall architectural harmony of the site.
One of the most intriguing aspects is the underground chamber, accessible via an iron door. While its exact purpose is debated, it is widely believed to have been a space for meditation and spiritual contemplation for Shah Daulat. Some describe it as a labyrinthine path, adding an element of mystery to the historical site. This unique feature, combined with the overall architectural brilliance, makes Chhoti Dargah Maner a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
The Legacy of Sufi Saints at Maner Sharif
+1Makhdoom Shah Daulat, in particular, passed away in Maner Sharif in 1608. His tomb, the Chhoti Dargah, was commissioned by Ibrahim Khan, the then governor of Bihar and a devoted disciple of Shah Daulat. The construction of this magnificent tomb, completed in 1616, reflects the deep respect and admiration Ibrahim Khan had for his spiritual guide. The presence of these revered tombs makes Maner Sharif a place of pilgrimage for many, drawing devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace.
Beyond its religious significance, Maner Sharif was also recognized as an important site for learning during the medieval era. Scholars and students were drawn to the area, contributing to its intellectual and cultural vibrancy. The historical narratives surrounding these saints and the educational legacy of Maner Sharif add layers of depth to the visitor experience, making it more than just a historical monument but a living testament to Bihar's rich past.
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