Location - FatehpurSikri is located 26 miles west of Agra
Built By - Mughal Emperor Akbar on the birth of his sonJehangir
Importance - World Heritage Site
Best time to Visit - November to February
Tourist Attractions - Mahals, Tombs, Halls and Mosques
About Fatehpur Sikri
Located very near to the immensely famous historical city of Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a royal city which was built by Mughal Emperor Akbar after the prophecy of a revered saint Sheikh Salim Chisti came true. The saint had predicted that the Emperor would beget a son who will become his heir after him. Due to its proximity to Agra, the significance of the city gets a bit overs hadowed, however at the same time many tourists visit Fatehpur Sikrialong with a trip to Agra.
Main Attractions
Jama Masjid - Built in 1571, the Jama Majid of Fatehpur Sikri is also known as the Dargah Mosque. The architecture of the mosque bears close resemblance to the main mosque of Mecca. The Jama Masjid houses courtyard, Jammat Khana Hall and a tomb of the Royal Ladies. The oldest place of worship in entire Fatehpur Sikri is the Stone Cutters’ mosque and is located right next to the Jama Masjid. The Masjid itself is entered by a hugely popular gateway known as the Buland Darwaza.
BulandDarwaza - The entrance of Jama Masjid, Buland Darwaza, is itself hugely popular with the tourists who flock in great numbers to see this ‘Gate of Victory’. The gate was built by Akbar after his gaining victory over Gujrat and stands at a towering height of 54 m. A thirteen metre flights of steps leads to this gate. On the Darwaza is inscripted a Koranic message.Immediately outside the Drawaza is a well in which many a courageous locals jump from the highest point of the gate..
Dargah Of Sheikh Salim Chisti - Built in 1570, this tombis of special significance because of its history.
It is said that after having remained childless for many years, Akbarsought the blessings of a revered sufi saint Sheikh Salim Chisti and was blessed with a son (later known as Jehangir). This dargah is now a frequently visited place by those who are childless.
Diwan-I-Aam - Diwan-I-Aam or the Hall of Public Audience is the place where Akbar met the common people to resolve their disputes and problems during his reign. There is a rectangular courtyard and to the west of it is the throne on which the emperor sat. The hall is separated by ajali screen on both sides to create a space from where ladies could see the proceedings of the court.
Diwan-I-Khas - Diwan-I-Khas or the Hall of Private audience is yet another place which attracts tourists a lot. The hall has single vaulted chamber in the centre of which is the Throne of Akbar whichis supported by the Lotus Throne Pillar. The four corners of the chamber, itis thought, were meant for four ministers of the emperor.
Reaching There
» By Air - The nearest airport is the Kheria Airport in Agra which is at a distance of 40 kms.
» By Rail - The nearest airport is the Agra Cantt Railway Station at a distance of 40 kms.
» By Road - Regular bus services by UPSRTC connect Fatehpur Sikri to Agra.
