Fatehpur Sikri is a city in Uttar Pradesh, India. This city was founded by Mughal Emperor, Akbar in 1569. It was constructed in Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. Red Sikri sandstone was used to build this city. It is the beautiful city with unique designs and attractive carvings. At the time of construction this place was named as Fatehabad, Fateh means Victory. This place acted as a capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585. It has taken 15 years to complete the construction of this city.
What to see in Fatehpur Sikri:
Buland Darwaza: This is the most famous in the city. It is the doorway on the south side of Jama Masjid. Height of this gateway is 180 feet. Other name of this gateway is Horseshoe Gate. People nail horseshoes to the wooden door which gives luck to them.
Diwan-e-Khaas: This hall used for private purpose. Official and important meeting used to hold at this place. This place is famous for its main pillar. Its base is in square shape. Platform is supporting by the beautifully carved pillars.
Diwan-e-Aam: Akbar used this hall to solve the problems of the public. Near this hall, Turkish baths are located.
Salim Chishti’s Tomb: Around this tomb visitors can enjoy beautiful garden. This was made up of marble. Pillars at this place are beautifully carved. Around the tomb, one can find unique designs and carvings windows.
Panch Mahal: It was a 5 storied Palace. Floor of this mahal supported by 176 carved pillars.
Mariam Zamani’s Palace: This was built for Akbar’s wife in Gujarati Architectural style.
Ibadat Khana: Ibadat Khana was built to worship God. This was built in 1575 by Akbar.
Naqqar Khana: Drums was placed here. When Emperor is entering into the public hall these drums used to play. It is located near Elephant Gate. Of all the gates of India this was the most important gate.
Anoop Talao: It is a beautifully decorated pool. Four bridges are leading towards this pool. Around this pool, Akbars residence, Astrologers seat, Diwan-e-Khaas, Panch Mahal, Khwaabghar are located.
Jama Masjid: According to the inscriptions, construction of this Masjid completed in 1571 AD. On the top of the masjid visitors can see row of cenotaph. This was made up of marble.
What to see around Fatehpur Sikri:
Agra: This pale is famous for Taj Mahal. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Domestic as well as foreign tourists come to this place to enjoy the beauty of the city. It is located 37kms away from Fatehpur Sikri. Visitors of this place say that without taking photograph near Taj Mahal, visit of this place is incomplete.
Getting to Fatehpur Sikri: Fatehpur Sikri is well connected through road and railways. From Agra and other nearby by cities buses come to this place on regular basis. Both private and state run buses come to this place. Railway station of Fatehpur Sikri is connected to Agra cantonment railway station. Agra station is well connected with all the major cities. Nearest airport is Agra’s Kheria airport which is 36kms away from the city. Taxis are available to visit Fatehpur Sikri from the airport.
Getting around Fatehpur Sikri: Private Vehicles and Taxis are available to visit the surrounding places of Fatehpur Sikri.
Best time to visit Fatehpur Sikri: Best time to visit this place is between November to March.
Where to stay in Fatehpur Sikri: Few Budget and midrange hotels are available to stay in this city. Luxury hotels along with plenty of other accommodations are available only in Agra which is 37kms away from the city.
Where to eat in Fatehpur Sikri: Few Food stalls are available near railway station which is 2kms away from the city. It is advisable to carry food while visiting the monuments.