FATEHPUR SIKRI
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
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