Background

Chini Ka Rauza: Agra's Glazed Tile Marvel

Discover Chini Ka Rauza in Agra: A unique Mughal tomb adorned with glazed tiles, showcasing Persian architecture and serene riverside gardens.

3.8

Chini Ka Rauza, or the China Tomb, is a 17th-century mausoleum in Agra dedicated to Afzal Khan Shirazi, a scholar and Prime Minister under Shah Jahan. Uniquely adorned with vibrant glazed tiles, it showcases Indo-Persian architecture and offers a tranquil 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 to explore the intricate tile work.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Taj Mahal and Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb, as Chini Ka Rauza is just a short distance away.
  • Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as it is a religiously significant monument.
  • Allocate at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the complex and appreciate its Indo-Persian architecture.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Auto-rickshaw/Taxi

    From Agra Fort Railway Station, hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi. The ride to Chini Ka Rauza is approximately 6 km and should take around 20 minutes. Expect to pay between ₹100-₹200 for the auto-rickshaw or ₹200-₹300 for a taxi, depending on traffic and negotiation.

  • Public Transport

    From Agra city center, take a local bus towards Ram Bagh. Get off near Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb and then walk, or take a short auto-rickshaw ride (approx. ₹30-₹50) to Chini Ka Rauza, which is about 1 km north.

  • Walking

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

Unlock the Best of Chini Ka Rauza

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Chini Ka Rauza

Chini Ka Rauza, meaning the China Tomb, is a fascinating, lesser-known Mughal mausoleum located in Agra, India. Built in 1635, it is dedicated to Afzal Khan Shirazi, a Persian poet and scholar who rose to become the Grand Vizier (Prime Minister) during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan. This monument stands out due to its unique architectural style, a blend of Indo-Persian design, and the use of glazed tiles, known locally as 'chini,' which gives the tomb its name. These tiles, some believe, were imported from China and Afghanistan, showcasing the extensive cultural exchanges of the Mughal era. The tomb's orientation faces Mecca, reflecting Islamic architectural principles. While time and weather have worn away some of the vibrant enamel colors, the intricate tile work, with its patterns and calligraphy, still hints at the monument's past grandeur. Inside, the walls and ceilings were once adorned with bright paintings, and the interior houses the graves of Afzal Khan and his wife. The structure is rectangular, featuring a relatively small dome and arched entrances. Located on the eastern bank of the Yamuna River, about 2 kilometers from the Taj Mahal and 1 kilometer from Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb, Chini Ka Rauza offers a peaceful retreat. It stands in the center of a Charbagh-style garden, providing a serene view of the river. Though often overlooked, Chini Ka Rauza is a testament to the artistic and cultural achievements of the Mughal era and is currently under restoration by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Popular Experiences near Chini Ka Rauza

Popular Hotels near Chini Ka Rauza

Select Currency