Major Tourist Attractions of Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur sikri, the abandoned city was once the capital of Mughal Empire. It remained the capital of Mughal Empire for 15 years and late on it was abandoned due to shortage of water. And today, it is a UNESCO world heritage site. The name Fatehpur sikri is derived from word Fatah, which means victory. Mughal Emperor Akbar built this city in honor of Sufi Saint, Salim Chishti.

Fatehpur Sikri is the perfect example of architectural excellence, reflecting Indo-Islamic styles. The detailing and craftsmanship can be seen in the grand mosque, beautiful palaces and marble tomb of Sufi Saint, Salim Chishti. Art and architectural style of this city will leave you speechless. It is the best place to revive the rich heritage of India. You must include a trip to Fatehpur Sikri to regality of the Mughals.

Here are some important monuments inside the city which you can not miss-

• Diwan-I-Khas –

This building is where royal members used to discuss private affairs. Only royal members used to visit here. Diwan-I-Khas is also known as Hall of Private Audiences. It has four beautiful Persian style architecture which has four chattris and a huge carved pillar in the center. Its interiors and detailed carvings in the stone column increase its beauty.

• Panch Mahal-

Panch Mahal, as the name suggests – it has five levels constructed in decreasing size. It is said that Emperor Akbar used it for relaxation and entertainment, especially for dance performances. It is the tallest building in the Fatehpur Sikri. Therefore, it’s easily recognizable too. Panch Mahal is another great example of Mughal architecture.

• Jodha Bai’s Palace-

Emperor Akbar built three palaces for his Hindu, Muslim and Christian wives. The largest and most beautiful example of craftsmanship of Mughal architecture can be seen in charming Jodha Bai’s palace. History revelas that the name of this palace was named after Rajput wife of the Emperor Akbar. You will witness fascinating traits of Hindu and Islamic styles in its structure. Emperor Akbar built a temple inside the complex of the palace too. The interiors of the palace are all inspired by Hindu motifs. You will see Jodha Bai’s kitchen as well, the outer wall is designed with a band of beautifully crafted jhumkas.

• Khwabgah-

One of the interesting and most beautiful building to visit is in the complex of Fatehpur Sikri is Khwabgah. It was a personal palace of the Emperor Akbar. The building is built with red sandstone. It has Emperor Akbar’s bedroom, a bathroom, a separate room used for holding official meetings, and a personal library. It is said that the walls have exquisite mural paintings, depicting scenes of the Mughal Court.

• Buland Darwaza –

This gate is the main entrance to the Jama Masjid mosque. It is walking distance from the fort. There is no entry fee for the same. You need to remove your shoes before entering inside. This Darwaza is made up of red sandstone and decorated by inlay work in white and black marble. Mughal Emperor Akbar built the Buland Darwaza as a mark of his victory over the kingdom of Gujarat. This gate is one of the highest gates of the World and is also a UNESCO world heritage site. It is 54 meters high having 42 steps. It’s high walls, shining domes and marble detailing is just amazing. It shows how much attention is being paid to the symmetry in the design of the gate. It is a perfect piece of art and architecture of the Mughal era.

• Tomb of Salim Chisti-

After entering through the Buland Darwaza, there is Jama Masjid, a mosque and tomb of Salim Chishti. It is believed that Sufi saint; Salim Chisti predicted the birth of an heir of Emperor Akbar. Later, according to his prediction, Akbar blessed with a son, Jahangir. This led Akbar to build Jama Masjid and Buland Darwaza, which he devoted to Salim Chisti. The tomb is built very beautifully in white marble which hold the grave of the Sufi saint. Many devotees visit this tomb, tie threads with the hope of fulfillment of their wishes. You will find many graves inside and outside the complex too. It is said that all these graves belongs to the family members of Chisti. The graves inside the complex belong to females and graves outside the complex belong to males.

• Jama Masjid –

Jama Masjid also knows as Friday Mosque, was built by Akbar. It is one of the largest mosques in India. Most beautiful feature of this mosque is its stylish and graceful mihrabs, decorated with white marble and red stone in geometric patterns. The seven bays of the mosque are designed so beautifully, when you see it from one place, it seems that they are all merging in one another.

Thank you so much for reading! I hope you enjoy reading my blog on Fatehpur Sikri. Do write in the comments for any questions or suggestions.

Other Related Links:-

How I spend two days in Agra 

Amazing Trip to Agra with some useful tips