The Chini Ka Rauza on the the Yamuna.
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Chini Ka Rauza Agra

3.8
·1k reviews·Agra, India

A historic mausoleum on the Yamuna River, famed for its intricate Persian-style glazed tile work and surviving interior paintings.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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The Chini Ka Rauza on the the Yamuna.

Chini Ka Rauza Agra

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic mausoleum on the Yamuna River, famed for its intricate Persian-style glazed tile work and surviving interior paintings.

3.8
(1k reviews)

"A forgotten monument on the bank of river Yamuna, the ceramic inlay makes this place special."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Entry Alert! 🎟️

Enjoy this historical site without an entrance fee. Perfect for budget travelers exploring Agra!

Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:

The grounds are uneven in places, and you'll want to explore the garden and monument comfortably.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Glazed Tile Facade

Glazed Tile Facade

Exterior Walls

Glimpse the remnants of vibrant blue and green glazed tiles, showcasing Persian architectural influence.

Intricate Interior Paintings

Intricate Interior Paintings

Interior Walls and Ceiling

Marvel at the surviving colorful paintings, offering a peek into the mausoleum's original splendor.

Yamuna River Views

Yamuna River Views

Rear of the Monument

Enjoy peaceful vistas of the Yamuna River from the monument's serene garden setting.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

Chini Ka Rauza offers a peaceful escape from Agra's bustling crowds. Visit early or late to truly appreciate its serene atmosphere and intricate tilework. No entry fee means spontaneous visits are easy, but check local advice before you go.

Uncover Hidden Beauty

While Chini Ka Rauza is a historical gem, its maintenance is inconsistent. Come with an appreciation for its past glory, as much of the original glazed tile work is worn. It's a chance to see a less-restored side of Mughal architecture.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#agra exploration 4. Chini ka Rauza Watch full video on my YouTube channel - Rahul NTSH . . . . #tajmahal #agra #mehtabbagh #dhobighat #itmaduddaulah #babytaj #chinikarauza #kalagumbad #rambagh #gurudwaragurukataal #akbarstomb #tombofakbar #kanchmahal #lodhitomb #jamamasjid #sethgali #sadarbazar #redfort #exploration #travelinspiration #uptourism #exploration #tourismindia #tourism #travelinspira...
iamrahulsingh.2
16 likes • 2.6K views

Free Entry Alert! 🎟️

Enjoy this historical site without an entrance fee. Perfect for budget travelers exploring Agra!

Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:

The grounds are uneven in places, and you'll want to explore the garden and monument comfortably.

#WATCH | Agra की इस Chini Ka Rauza स्मारक को देखकर हैरान रह गए थे Shah Jahan, क्या है ख़ास . . . #Agra #ChiniKaRauza #Shahjahan #monumental #travel #Harmony #Brotherhood #Peace #NationalIntegrity #DNN24
dnn24network
642 likes • 19.9K views
Chini Ka Rauza ( चीनी का रोजा )- AGRA📍 #agra_stories
agra_stories
716 likes • 17.9K views

Appreciate the Past ✨

Much of the tile work is worn. Come with an eye for history and imagine its former glory.

Local Vibe :camera_with_flash:

Locals use the space for recreation. Be respectful and capture the unique atmosphere.

Tomb of Afzal Khan Shirazi / Chini Ka Rauza In Agra, a very unique monument known as Chini Ka Rauza. Once so magnificent that even Emperor Shah Jahan admired its beauty, this tomb is situated on the banks of the Yamuna River. It was commissioned between 1628 and 1635 by Afzal Khan Shirazi, also known as Shukrullah Shirazi ‘Allami,’ the prime minister (vizier) of Shah Jahan, as his final resting pl...
heritage.with.arsalan
461 likes • 7.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Entry Alert! 🎟️

Enjoy this historical site without an entrance fee. Perfect for budget travelers exploring Agra!

Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:

The grounds are uneven in places, and you'll want to explore the garden and monument comfortably.

Appreciate the Past ✨

Much of the tile work is worn. Come with an eye for history and imagine its former glory.

Local Vibe :camera_with_flash:

Locals use the space for recreation. Be respectful and capture the unique atmosphere.

What Travellers Say

3.8
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Chini Ka Rauza is a historically significant monument on the Yamuna River, noted for its unique glazed tile work and interior paintings, offering a glimpse into Persian architectural influence. While appreciated as a 'hidden gem' and a peaceful escape, many reviews highlight its poor maintenance and the wear and tear on its decorative elements, lamenting its neglected state despite its potential beauty.

"Along the river beyond Itimad ud Daula's tomb, lies another less grand one of another Mughal wazir. The blue and green tiles of the facade can be imagined from the few that remain but the real treasure lies on the inside, where the colours of the walls and ceiling are how they must have been when the mausoleum was first constructed.

Lovely river views and a sweet garden. The ASI has been working to upgrade this morning monument."

Nive Raitz von Frentz

"Hidden gem of architecture in Agra on the bank of river Yamuna. The ceramic inlay makes this place special & it's a protected monument so those who wish to visit should get info about logistics and it's 100% worth visiting."

Lav Paliwal

"A forgotten monument located the Agra city.Its a tomb of former prime minister of mughal court.The maintenance of this monument is very poor.Only few tourists visit here.Entrance path is also not maintained.No ticket required.it must have been very beautiful monument in its full glory.Niw inly few patches of blue and green tiles design are visible.If local do not suggest to visit here."

Gaurav Agrawal

What People Like

Unique glazed tile work
Peaceful river views
Free entry

What People Dislike

Poor maintenance
Worn decorations

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Chini Ka Rauza is located on the northern bank of the Yamuna River, a short distance from Agra Fort. You can hire an auto-rickshaw or a taxi for a convenient ride. The journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Reddit

While direct public buses might be limited, you can take a local bus towards the northern side of the Yamuna and then a short auto-rickshaw ride to reach the monument. It's advisable to confirm routes with locals upon arrival. Reddit

From the Taj Mahal, you can easily hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw. The drive is relatively short, offering pleasant views along the Yamuna River. Reddit

Limited parking is usually available near the entrance. If you're arriving by private car or taxi, you should be able to find a spot, though it might not be a designated lot. Reddit

Yes, Chini Ka Rauza is located along the river beyond Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb. A pleasant walk along the riverbank is possible, offering scenic views, though it might take about 20-30 minutes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entry fee to visit Chini Ka Rauza. This makes it an accessible and budget-friendly historical site to explore in Agra. Reddit

Chini Ka Rauza is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's always a good idea to confirm these hours locally, as they can sometimes vary. Reddit

Since there is no entry fee, advance booking is not required. You can visit anytime during its opening hours. Reddit

While it's a protected monument, reviews suggest that maintenance can be poor, with some areas needing restoration. However, the ASI is reportedly working on upgrades. Reddit

Chini Ka Rauza is generally open daily during its operating hours. There are no specific closures mentioned for weekdays or weekends. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed inside Chini Ka Rauza. You can capture the intricate tile work and interior paintings, but be mindful of other visitors and the historical nature of the site. Reddit

The exterior walls with the remaining glazed tiles and the interior walls and ceiling with their colorful paintings offer excellent photo opportunities. The garden and river views also make for picturesque shots. Reddit

As with most historical monuments in India, drone photography is likely restricted or requires special permission from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). It's best to avoid using drones without prior authorization. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography. The golden hour can enhance the colors of the tiles and paintings, creating a magical ambiance. Reddit

For professional photoshoots, it's advisable to check with the ASI or local authorities for any specific permits or regulations that might be in place. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture

Chini Ka Rauza was built in the 1630s as the mausoleum for Afzal Khan Shirazi, who served as the Prime Minister (Wazir) under Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. Reddit

Its unique feature is the extensive use of glazed tile work, known as 'Chini' or 'Kashi' work, which is of Persian influence. It's considered one of the few monuments in India with such prominent Persian architectural elements. Reddit

The name 'Chini Ka Rauza' translates to 'Chinese's Tomb' or 'Persian Tomb,' referring to the glazed tile work that resembles Chinese porcelain and the Persian origin of the architectural style and the person buried there. Reddit

While historically significant, the monument's condition is described as neglected by some visitors, with much of the original tile work worn off due to climatic conditions. However, it is a protected monument and undergoing some restoration efforts. Reddit

Chini Ka Rauza is located on the banks of the Yamuna River, not far from the Taj Mahal and Itimad-ud-Daulah's Tomb. It was built around the same period as the Taj Mahal for a prominent figure in Shah Jahan's court. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Chini Ka Rauza offers a less crowded and more relaxed experience compared to Agra's major attractions, making it potentially suitable for families. The open garden area provides space for children to move around, and the free entry is a definite plus. However, the historical nature of the site, with its delicate and worn decorations, means it might require more supervision to ensure children appreciate it respectfully. Reddit

While there aren't specific child-centric facilities, the peaceful ambiance and the visual appeal of the remaining tile work can still spark curiosity. It's a good opportunity to introduce children to Mughal history in a less overwhelming setting. Pack snacks and water, as amenities might be limited. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Chini Ka Rauza is a fantastic find for budget travelers as entry is completely free. This allows you to experience a piece of Mughal history without any cost. Its location on the Yamuna River also provides pleasant views, adding to the value of a visit. Reddit

Combine your visit with other free or low-cost activities in Agra, or use it as a peaceful stop between more expensive attractions. The lack of an entry fee makes it an easy addition to any Agra itinerary without impacting your budget. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of Glazed Tiles

Chini Ka Rauza is renowned for its distinctive glazed tile work, a technique known as 'Chini' or 'Kashi' in Persian. This intricate decorative element, featuring vibrant blue and green hues, was a hallmark of Persian architecture and was applied extensively to the facade of the mausoleum. While time and climate have taken their toll, the remaining patches of these tiles offer a captivating glimpse into the monument's original splendor and the sophisticated craftsmanship of the era. Reddit

This style of decoration was relatively uncommon in Mughal architecture, making Chini Ka Rauza a significant example of Persian artistic influence in India. The detailed patterns and the way the tiles catch the light would have created a dazzling effect when the mausoleum was first constructed. Visitors are encouraged to look closely at the surviving sections to appreciate the artistry involved. Reddit

A Neglected Gem on the Yamuna

Situated on the banks of the Yamuna River, Chini Ka Rauza offers a tranquil setting with lovely river views. However, many visitors note that the monument, despite its historical importance, suffers from poor maintenance. The entrance path and the monument itself are described as needing significant upkeep, with the beautiful paintings on the walls and ceiling showing signs of wear and tear. Reddit

Despite its condition, the monument is a protected site, and there are indications that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is working on upgrades. The lack of extensive tourist traffic means it retains a sense of quietude, allowing for a more personal experience. It's a place that evokes a sense of melancholy for its past glory, with many hoping for its full restoration to its original beauty. Reddit

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