Agra is a gorgeous city in Uttar Pradesh with much historical significance. The city and its historical monuments speak volumes about the Mughal culture, their tenure, and their architectural excellence. It is a city well-known for its food and various delicacies as well.
Apart from that, 40 km away from the city of Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is also a recognized city known for its architectural significance. Built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar, in the last half of the 16th century, it stayed the capital of the Mughal Empire for little more than 14 years and was then abandoned. Fatehpur Sikri now is a UNESCO World Heritage place, attracting thousands of visitors who come to admire its splendid palaces, courtyards, and mosques.
Fatehpur Sikri Entry Fee
The entry charge at Fatehpur Sikri is classified under two levels of nationality.
| Tourist Type | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Indian Citizens | 50 Rs |
| Foreign Visitors | 610 Rs |
| SAARC and BIMSTEC Countries Visitors | 50 Rs |
| Children Below 15 Years Old | Free |
Fatehpur Sikri Timings
Fatehpur Sikri is available for tourists 24/7. The entry hours are sunrise to sunset. The best time is early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler with excellent light for photography.
- Summer Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Winter Timings: 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM
How To Reach Fatehpur Sikri?
Agra can be reached through several domestic and international modes of transport. These include car, bus, rail, and air, and cater to all wallets. You can choose any form of transportation depending on the convenience of your travel style. The option by air reads:
By Air
The nearest major airport to Agra is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, which is well-connected to global destinations. Local transportation from there is possible by a domestic flight that takes you to the local airport of Agra. Once in Agra, you’ll be comfortable getting around the city with taxis and car rental services available.
By Train
Rail Connectivity Major cities in India are well connected by rail to Agra. The key railway station is Agra Cantonment, and several trains, even high-speed ones like Gatimaan Express and Shatabdi Express, connect Agra with cities like Delhi, etc. Tickets are available through the Indian Railways website or from any of the multiple third-party sites.
By Road
Agra is accessible by road. The city is well connected with other major regions through a robust network. You can reach Agra by bus, taxi, or private vehicle. Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation operates regular buses from Delhi, Jaipur, and Lucknow to Agra, which take about 4 to 5 hours.
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Historical Background Of Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri was built between 1571 and 1585 by Emperor Akbar. He planned it as the great capital. The city was frankly built on the site of a village called Sikri where Akbar had met a Sufi saint called Sheikh Salim Chishti. The saint foretold the birth of Akbar’s heir that came true, and to honor him, the emperor laid the foundation of his new capital there. The name “Fatehpur,” which means “City of Victory,” reflects Akbar’s military wins.
But magnificent as it was, Fatehpur Sikri had one major flaw: too little water. It turned out to be both logistically unsound and politically impossible. The city was abandoned in 1585, just 14 years after its completion.
Fatehpur Sikri Photos
Fatehpur Sikri Location
- Fatehpur Sikri, Agra Uttar Pradesh, India
Places To Visit In Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri, in Uttar Pradesh, India, holds a wealth of history and architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Must-visit places in Fatehpur Sikri are as follows:
Buland Darwaza: One of the largest gateways in the world, Buland Darwaza is one erected by Akbar to mark the victory he won over Gujarat. A marvel of architecture.
Jama Masjid: Such a beautiful mosque; you get to see the intricate architecture of the Mughals with a large courtyard and impressive arches. It houses the grave of Sufi saint Salim Chishti.
Tombs of Salim Chishti: A sacred Sufi shrine known for its beautiful white marble architecture. It is said that whoever prays at this will be blessed with children.
Diwan-i-Khas: It is a sort of hall where Emperor Akbar met his ministers and officials. The central pillar is peculiar, with a beautiful ornament of carvings.
Panch Mahal: It is a five-storied palace; the architectural pattern is open air. The beauty of surrounding nature could be viewed from here, it was used for resting purposes.
Tombs of Sufi Saints: There are a number of tombs in the whole complex, some of which are of saints, who, according to Emperor Akbar, they themselves were respectful of.
Birbal’s House: It is a small palace, said to be the residence of Birbal, the closest advisor of Akbar. Its architecture is intricate and unique.
Anup Talao: A very beautiful water tank with pavilions on all sides, symmetrical in design, and peaceful in nature.
Ibadat Khana: The hall of prayer and discussion where Emperor Akbar had religious debates with scholars from different faiths.
Mariam’s Tomb: The tomb of Akbar’s wife, Mariam-uz-Zamani, lies outside the main complex.
Jodha Bai’s Palace: This was the home of Akbar’s Rajput wife, Jodha Bai. The palace reflects a combination of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles.
Hiran Minar: A tower decorated with stone projections comparing elephant tusks, believed to be a memorial to Akbar’s favorite elephant.
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Tips For the visitors
Plan Your Visit: Make a plan to visit Fatehpur Sikri, so that you can easily visit everything comfortably. Try to come earlier in the morning to avoid the crowd.
Things To Carry: Keep a water bottle and stay hydrated. Try to wear comfortable attire and walking shoes.
Respect the site: As a historical and spiritual site, maintain decency and admire local customs and regulations. Photography may be restricted in certain areas.
FAQs
Q. What are the interesting facts about Fatehpur Sikri?
Ans. Fatehpur Sikri was established by Emperor Akbar in the second half of the 16th century, Fatehpur Sikri (the City of Victory) was the capital of the Mughal Empire for only 10 years.
Q. How many gates are there in Fatehpur Sikri?
Ans. It is accessed through gates along the 5 miles (8.0 km) long fort wall: Delhi Gate, the Lal Gate, the Agra Gate, Birbal’s Gate, Chandan Pal Gate, the Tehra Gate, the Chor Gate, the Gwalior Gate, and the Ajmeri Gate.
Q. What was the Ibadat Khana at Fatehpur Sikri?
Ans. The Ibadat Khana was a prayer or meeting room built by Akbar at his palace in Fatehpur Sikri.
