Sikandra/Akbar’s Tomb Located in the western periphery of the city, the red-sandstone and marble tomb was built by Emperor Akbar, which was later completed by his son Jahangir. Its interior is covered with exquisite calligraphy that reflects the tenets of Din-e-Ilahi, a religious movement started by Emperor Akbar based on the fusion of primarily Hinduism and Islam including other religions as well. Sikandra is the resting place of the Mughal emperor Akbar and his grave lies here in a dark chamber. The outlying garden which is laid out in the Char Bagh style is yet another attraction of the place.
The story behind Akbar’s Tomb is different from that of The Taj Mahal. Shahjahan started Taj Mahal’s construction for his wife Mumtaj so it is the mausoleum of Mumtaz Mahal especially. But the construction of Akbar’s Tomb Agra was commenced by Badshah Akbar himself to keep his sepulture. There are only few Tombs of this type in the world with such a great story behind the purpose of their construction.
The real Tomb of Akbar the Great is situated in the basement which is unfortunately not open for tourist for security reasons. The basement has panels, places to pass air and an open door where the actual body of Mughal Emperor Akbar is kept as per the mughal traditions.
This place is a mausoleum of Shah Jahan’s Prime Minister and Persian poet Afzal Khan Mullah. It is situated just one km away from Itmad-ud-Daula Tomb. The monument is set amid well-tendered gardens, known for its blue glazed tile. The glazed tiles used in the monument are made from porcelain which is also known as “Chini Mitti” or “Chinese Clay” which is said to be brought from China. The tiles used in the monument can still be seen on a small part of the exterior while most of the interior is painted in Floral Designs. This place is a curtain raiser to an exotic Persian art style, which finds itself a home in Agra. You can visit the place from sunrise to sunset any day.
History of Chini Ka Rauza
Chini ka Rauza is also called as the China Tomb of Agra. This mausoleum belong to a Persian born poet, who rose to the position of Wazir (Prime Minister) during the reign of Shah Jahan. Mullah died in 1639 in Lahore. His remains were brought back to Agra, to be buried in this spot. Just like every other mausoleum of Mughals, the tomb is built to face the holy city of Mecca.
Architecture
Chini Ka Rauza Mausoleum was built in the year 1635. The architecture of this much-famous tourist site in Agra is in Indo-Persian style. Parts of this mausoleum is still adorned with glazed tiles, which was also known by the other names like Kashi and Chini during Mughal era. Besides, the interior, which includes paintings of flowers, is also a key highlight of this monument.
Opening & Closing Timings
For tourists, Chini Ka Rauza Mausoleum remains accessible all days a week, i.e., from Sunday to Saturday. One can visit the place on any day from 10 in the morning to 5 in the evening.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
In the near proximity to the mausoleum, there are various tourist attractions that are also visited by tourists. Popular tourist places that are located nearby to the mausoleum are: