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INTRODUCTION
Fatehpur Sikri is the imperial city of the Mughal
dynasty. Mughal Emperor Akbar, who was known for his
interest in literature, architecture, and the arts,
built the royal city at Fatehpur Sikri, situated 26
miles west of Agra (city of the Tajmahal, India). He
is also reputed to be a very tolerant ruler and the
buildings at Fatehpur Sikri blend both Islamic and
Hindu elements in their architectural style. The
architectural grandeur of this deserted city cannot
be described in words and one can only experience
the aura of its magnificent edifices by seeing them.
If you are looking for something that symbolizes the
grandeur of the Mughals, Fatehpur Sikri is a
must-see during your Taj Mahal tour in Agra.
HISTORY OF FATEHPUR SIKRI
Fatehpur Sikri was the political capital of the
Mughal Empire between 1571 and 1585. The emperor
reigning during this period was Akbar. Agra was the
then capital city of the Mughal rule. The dynasty’s
treasure, arsenal and other precious belongings were
kept in Fatehpur Sikri.Fatehpur Sikri is a World
Heritage Site and has one of the largest mosques in
India the Jama Masjid.
DESCRIPTION OF FATEHPUR SIKRI
The buildings within Fatehpur Sikri are a unique
blend of different architectural traditions. Though
the general layout and concept of the buildings
conform to the Islamic style of architecture, the
actual buildings (mainly palaces), their ornate
columns, arches, carving style, etc., show a strong
Hindu style in general and that of Gujarat and
Rajasthan in particular. There are a number of
buildings within the Fatehpur Sikri complex to be
savoured during your Taj holidays in Agra. Each of
the small palaces in Fatehpur Sikri has a specific
purpose and generally faces a courtyard. Diwan-I-Aam
(Hall of Public Audience) is an enclosed space
surrounded by colonnades and has a large open area
where petitioners and courtiers once stood in
attendance; Diwan-I-Khas (Hall of Private Audience)
- used for serious, confidential, diplomatic and
religious discourses - is famous for its central
decorated pillar consisting of 36 elegantly carved
brackets in the Gujarati style - heavy and ornate,
and sprouting in shape; Panch Mahal (five-tiered
palace) is an intriguing five-storied pavilion of
winds. The Turkish Sultan's palace is known for
exquisitely carved panels depicting wildlife-lions,
birds, and foliage. Near the Diwan-I-Aam, one can
see a tank called the Anup Talao. Four bridges link
the central platform at the Anup Talao. Here the
famous court musician Tansen played music.
Jodha Bai's Palace (Jodha Bai was Akbar's Rajput
queen) has the most distinctively Gujarati and
Rajasthani architectural features. Also noteworthy
are Mariam's Palace or Sunehra Makan (golden house),
Palace of Birbal (one of Akbar's minister notable
for his witticisms) and a miniature garden. Jami
Masjid (mosque), sacred center of Sikri, symbolizes
the city's spiritual prominence. In the vast
courtyard stands the tomb of Sheikh Salim Chisti
whose blessings are still sought by childless women.
HOW TO REACH FATEHPUR SIKRI
AIR- Fatehpur Sikri is about 37 kilometers from the
city of Agra. Taxis and buses are available that
travel to Fatehpur Sikri.Agra airport is 7 km from
the city center and 3 km from Idgah bus stand. Major
Indian airlines operate daily tourist shuttle
flights to Agra, Khajuraho, Varanasi and back. It
only takes 40 minutes from Delhi to Agra.
RAIL- Agra is well connected by railroad. The main
railway station is the Agra Cantonment station. Agra
is well connected by rail to Delhi, Varanasi and
cities of Rajasthan. Trains like Palace on Wheel,
Shatabdi, Rajdhani, and Taj Express are the best
choices if you want to reach Agra from Delhi in
luxury.
ROAD- Idgah bus stand is the main bus stand of Agra,
from where one can catch buses for Delhi, Jaipur,
Mathura, Fatehpur-Sikri, etc. Buses for Mathura also
leave from Agra Fort bus stand.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
November to February |
