Fatehpur Sikri: embark upon a tour of rich heritage and glorious past.

If you are looking forward to head to a destination in India which gives an enthralling dose of historical and architectural beauty, then Fatehpur Sikri must not miss your wishlist.

Located at a distance of about 37 KM from the city of Taj, Agra, Fatehpur sikri is a perfect picturesque of the rich and royal heritage of Mughal era. Amidst the continuously modernising world, this place takes you to a whole new world of artistry of the Golden past of India.

As you enter the city, through a large gate, named Buland Darwaza- a 54 metre tall gate, you will be transported to a saga of India’s astonishing culture and heritage. Built with red stones, the city is a fond reminder of the past.

The city has an interesting anecdote behind its inception. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar during 1572-1585 AD. The childless Akbar, in crave of a son, went to the saint SalimChishti, who was residing at the then city Sikri, to seek his blessings.

Soon after this, the Emperor Akbar got blessed with a son. Thus, to show a gratitude to the Saint, the Emperor built his capital city. Since for the Emperor Akbar having a child was not less than a victory, he named it Fatehpur Sikri, meaning the ‘City of Victory’.

At present, the acclaimed Tomb of SalimChishti attracts thousands of people who seek blessings of the venerated saint or want to witness the awe-inspiring remains of the Mughal artistry. The well-maintained testimonies of the magnificent past, has made the city one of the prime tourist attraction of Uttar Pradesh.

The city is also adorned with some peppy and famous bazaars (markets), they are perfect for a shopping spree. The unprecedented grandeur and the vibrant bazaars (markets) of the city assures of a spell binding and an unforgettable experience.

The city is the finest blend of the splendid Indo-islamicarchitecture. Every corner speaks the valour and architectural intelligence of the Mughal Era. Its palaces are the remains of extravaganza of Mughals. Sitting on a rocky ridge, the city is a home to some magnificent structures and palaces. The prime attractions of the city are:

Diwan-e-Khas: Meaning to be a ‘Hall of private audience’, it was used as a regal pavilion. The royal comrades used to assemble in the same hall to discuss the matters related to business, economical or other private affairs. It has mighty and richly carved pillar in the centre. You will find the kingly and imperial set up, adorned and built in Persian architectural framework, it perfectly portrays the royal era.

Diwan-e-aam: forming an integral part of those kingly ancient times, this hall was meant for theaamgatherings viz. public gatherings and meetings. Situated in the heart of this city, it is an eye-grabbing and admirable structure. In stark contrast of the ornate embellishment of the diwan-i-khas, this hall was simple and sober. The Emperor Akbar used this place to interact with his subjects of common man to sort out their day to day issues.

Birbal Bhawan: Being resident to the Birbal, one of the nine jewels of Akbar, this bhawan is the most fabled tourist attraction of the city. It is a notable monument among the amazing edifices scattered over the whole city. It connects ‘Hathi Pol’, a prominent city attraction via a screened pathway from the haram sara viaduct.

Ankh Micholi Treasury: Adding a great deal of value to the city, it stands to be one the eminent edifice in the city. It is a royal treasury of the then capital FatehpurSikri, during the reign of Akbar. Although the whole of it is a spectacular piece of architecture, but the Astrologer’s Seat, placed in the south western part of the structure, is a striking piece of architectural artistry. It probably seated the Akbar’s astrology Hindu Guru.

Salim Chishti Tomb: This tomb forms the phenomenal part of the city as the city was founded only because of the blessings of the saint, SalimChishti. Originally built with red stones is now entirely coveted in marbles. This white marbling tomb shines like a pearl among the rest of the red-stoned edifices. The pioneering feature of this tomb is the jalis or the latticed work which embellish the windows of the tomb.

Palace of Jodha Bai: As the name says, this place was the palace of Akbar’s Queen JodhaBai. It is a spellbinding concoction of the Rajput’s and Mughal’s architectural intricacies. The turquoise bricks, used in the roof of the palace, add to the beauty of the red-stones.

Panch Mahal: swayed by the architectural framework of the Buddhist temple, this palace was iused by the Emperor Akbar for relaxing his mind, away from his bustling kingdom. This placed was also used by his Queens to sight a full moon, which was a mesmerizing scene.

This place is a home to those awe-inspiring tales and eye-grabbing historical edifices that you cannot afford to miss. After all, a life left unconquered is a life not lived and what can be better than conquering the history.

Take a look at our package: Palaces, Forts & Beyond and explore the romance of India’s forts & palaces, their past glory, wars and warriors and garner a fascinating experience.