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Chini Ka Rauza: Agra's Glazed Tile Tomb

Discover Chini Ka Rauza, Agra's hidden gem: A tranquil 17th-century tomb adorned with Persian-style glazed tiles and Mughal artistry.

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Chini Ka Rauza, or the 'China Tomb,' is a 17th-century mausoleum in Agra dedicated to Afzal Khan Shirazi, a scholar and poet who served as Prime Minister to Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Distinct for its Persian-style architecture and intricate glazed tile work, it offers a serene escape from the city's bustling tourist spots.

A brief summary to Chini Ka Rauza

  • Agra, Katra Wazir Khan, Uttar Pradesh, 282006, IN
  • +915224061369

Local tips

  • Visit during the winter months (October to March) for pleasant weather and optimal conditions for exploring the intricate tile work.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb, located just 1 km away, for a comprehensive exploration of Mughal architecture.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the serene atmosphere and architectural details of the mausoleum.
  • Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as it is a religiously significant monument.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Agra city center or Agra Cantonment Railway Station, taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available. A taxi ride to Chini Ka Rauza typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between ₹600-₹900 for a taxi from the city center. Auto-rickshaws are a more economical option, costing around ₹150-₹250, but agree on the fare beforehand.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses connect various parts of Agra to the area near Chini Ka Rauza. From the Agra ISBT or Idgah Bus Stand, take a bus heading towards Ram Bagh or Itmad-ud-Daulah. Get off near Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb and walk or take a short auto-rickshaw ride (₹30-₹50) to Chini Ka Rauza, which is about 1 km north. Bus fares typically range from ₹10 to ₹30.

  • Walking

    If you are already visiting Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb, Chini Ka Rauza is a short 1 km walk north along the Yamuna River. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Be mindful of traffic as you walk along the road.

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Discover more about Chini Ka Rauza

Chini Ka Rauza, located on the eastern bank of the Yamuna River in Agra, is a mausoleum dedicated to Afzal Khan Shirazi, a Persian scholar and poet who rose to become the Prime Minister during the reign of Shah Jahan. Constructed in 1635, the tomb is known for its unique Indo-Persian architecture, especially the vibrant glazed tiles that adorn its exterior. These tiles, referred to locally as 'Chini,' lend the monument its distinctive name, 'Chini Ka Rauza,' meaning 'Tomb of China'. Afzal Khan, a close confidant of Shah Jahan, commissioned the tomb for himself. After his death in Lahore in 1639, his remains were brought to Agra and interred here. The tomb's design incorporates a square plan with a relatively small dome, featuring arched central bays and small minarets. The interior is adorned with paintings, calligraphy from the Quran, and intricate designs. Though much of the original tile work has faded or been lost to time, the remaining fragments offer a glimpse into the monument's past splendor. Chini Ka Rauza stands in a Charbagh-style garden, offering a peaceful retreat. While often overshadowed by the nearby Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, it provides a unique perspective on Mughal-era art and architecture. The Archaeological Survey of India is undertaking restoration efforts to preserve this hidden gem for future generations.

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