Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri, the city built with Red Sand stones built during 1571 and 1585 is situated 37 kms from historical city Agra, in Uttar Pradesh. The Mughal Emperor, Akbar had built this town to make it his capital, but shortage of water compelled him to shift his capital to Lahore within 20 years.

This city contains many old structures, which is been taken care of Archaeological department. The city is deserted merely having a population of 30,000. But it’s a must visit place for those who would like to spend some time seeing the beautiful sunset over the ruins.

Fatehpur Sikri has a mixture of both hindu and muslim architecture. It is said that the mosque resembles the mosque in Mecca, designs derived from Persian & Hindu Architecture.

Interesting places to visit in Fatehpur Sikri are

Diwan-I-Am - The hall of Public Audience, used for celebrations and public prayers.

Diwan- Khana-I-Khaas - The hall of Private Audience, used by the Emperor Akbar and his Ministers.

Turkish Sultana’s House - Located at the corner of Anup Talao, with ceiling carved in wood with geometrical pattern.

The Treasury - Also known as Ankh Michauli, this area was used to play games.

Daulat Khana-I-Khas – Having 2 main rooms on ground floor used by Akbar as his Library and rest room. And on the first floor is the khwabgah connected with Turkish Sultana’s house, the Panch Mahal, Mariam’s House and the Jodha Bai’s palace by corridors.

Palace of Jodha Bai - The largest royal palace named after Akbar’s wife, Jodha Bai. It has high walls for security with a 9 metre guarded large gate and was assured of complete privacy.

Hawa Mahal and Nagina Masjid - Also known as Palace of winds is a small screened wind tower facing the garden and attached to palace.

Birbal’s Palace - 2 Storeyed palace used by Akbar’s 2 senior queens – Ruqnayya begum and Salima sultan begum.

Sunehra Makan – 2 Storeyed building, made by gold murals in Persian Style was used by Akbar’s wife, Mariam-Uz-Zamani.

Panch Mahal - 5 Storeyed pavilion, each floor is smaller than the one below raising to a single domed kiosk on top.

Dargah of Sheikh Salim Chisti - This was built in 1570, and is believed the childless women here to get blessings of the saint.

The Jami Masjid - One of the largest mosques in India.

Buland Darwaza – The highest and grandest gateway in india was erected to commemorate Akbar’s victory.