If magnificent architecture, curiosity about the historic past and photography are on your hit list, then Chini Ka Rauza is a monument you must visit! Agra is counted as one of the unrivalled destinations when it comes to Indian history. Of the many monuments, Chini Ka Rauza, although not well known in the city, represents a perfect blend of Indo-Persian architecture.
Built in 1635, this monument is a tomb of Allama Afzal Khan Mullah, who was a scholar and poet. He was also the prime minister of Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan. Located on the banks of Yamuna river, this shrine is the first structure in India constructed using glazed tiles, popularly known as Kashi or chini, since Mughal era times.
This brown, rectangular structure is adorned with beautiful paintings and inscriptions from the Quran. In spite of gradually losing its charm, the solo Persian-style tomb attracts visitors with its vibrant coloured tiles!
PC: Varun Shiv Kapur
Timings
You can visit Chini Ka Rauza on any day when your eyes wish to witness the outcome that a talented artisan can possess. Visit between 9 am and 6 pm. Do not plan your trip to this exotic monument during local and national holidays.
Best Time To Visit
A day's trip during winters is the best time to explore this astounding marvel. November to March is an ideal time to visit Agra. Summers are intolerable here and not recommended.
How To Get There?
By Air: Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, Jaipur International Airport and Kanpur Airport are the nearest airports from Agra. You can either book a private cab or bus to reach Agra from these airports.
By Train: To reach Agra, you can halt at any of the three major railway stations: Agra Cantonment, Agra Fort and Raja Ki Mandi.
By Road: Agra is well connected by national highways. NH 2, NH 11 and NH 3 connect Agra to Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, Mathura and few other major cities. On your way to Agra, Fatehpur Sikri and Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary are not to be missed!
PC: Harshit Singhal
Other Places To Visit In Agra
Agra and Taj Mahal are synonyms of each other. You can't leave Agra without paying a visit to this eternal symbol of love. History seekers will find a lot to dig in this small but quaint city. Jama Masjid, Panch Mahal, Agra Fort and Akbar's tomb are few other jaw-dropping attractions exhibiting the Indian culture teamed up with Mughal ethnicity. Temples and gurdwaras out here are also worth visiting.