Fatehpur Sikri the 16th century Indian city is popular worldwide as a UNESCO Heritage Site. This ancient place, just 40 km. from Agra, once a bustling capital during the Mughal reign is also known as the ‘Ghost Town’ today. The historical brilliance of the city was completed in the year 1585, but remained vacant for more than 400 years due to issues in the water and drainage system. Fatehpur Sikri is one of the best places to visit in Agra.
History of Fatehpur Sikri
If you are lucky to arrange an Agra Fatehpur Sikri tour, do not miss some of the prominent and illustrious structures inside the city (If you need any help on Agra Fatehpur Sikri tour, you may refer the link http://www.waytoindia.com/agra-fatehpur-sikri-tour where excellent travel information is provided for those planning Agra Fatehpur Sikri tour).
Fatehpur is one of India’s richest architectural lands, which houses numerous historical structures and grand architectural monuments that proudly displays cultural grandeur with a beautiful blend of Persian, Jain, Muslim and Hindu traditions.
As a first-time tourist to Fatehpur, you may easily get mesmerised and awestruck while studying the important monumental constructions such as Diwan-i-Am, Ranch Mahal, Jodha Bai Palace, Jama Masjid, Hujra-i-Anup Talao, Buland Darwaza, Mariam Palace and Ibadat Khana to name a few. Most buildings are made of red sand stone and marble materials with intricate designs reflecting superior workmanship of the skilled artisans of bygone era.
Let us try to describe the magnificence of some of the amazing monuments and best sights to visit in Fatehpur Sikri:
- Buland Darwaza – One of the best architectural structures ever created; the gigantic gateway is by far the largest doorway (height 54 mt.) in the world. It was constructed in the 15th century to honour the successful campaign against Gujarat by the Emperor Akbar. Buland Darwaza depicts perfect fusion of Persian and Mughal construction has to be seen to be believed. The interior is beautifully designed with black and white marbles and ingrained carvings.
- Diwan-i-Khas – It is a grand hall popularly known as the Diwan-i-Khas and was primarily used as a royal chamber for the Emperor. The Persian style architecture is enhanced with lovely sculptures and precious gemstones. There are four chambers that are situated in the central part of the royal court area.
- Ram Bagh – It is one of the erstwhile Mughal gardens found in the Indian soil. It was built during the reign of Emperor Babur in the early 15th century for enjoying nature. It is a typical Persian layout with cleverly designed pathways, canals and layers. Visitors enjoy the wondrous ambience and the beautiful flower beds.
- Panch Mahal – A colossal five storied building that was constructed to serve as a pleasure palace for the Emperor Akbar. He used to unwind and basically chill out in the Mahal. The beautiful building also sheltered the royal queens and mistresses. The royal harem was located here for the king’s entertainment.
- Chisti Tomb – The final resting place of celebrated Sufi Saint called Salim Chisti is also popular as Chisti Tomb. The Tomb showcases Mughal architectural glory in its old-world delicate mini sculptures and images. The tomb is visited by innumerable Muslim pilgrims as well as other tourists all round the year.
Your Indian vacation is incomplete without a visit to Agra’s priced historical landmark Fatehpur Sikri. As an enthusiastic tourist who loves historical relics, you can also visit other great monuments like Jodha Bai Palace, Nagina Masjid, Birbal Bhavan, Sunhera Makan, Serai Karawan, etc. depicting charming ancient Persian and Mughal building layouts and designs.
You can find scores of details about Fatehpur Sikri before you decide to go on a momentous Agra Fatehpur Sikri Tour. The most wonderful time to visit this heritage site is during the months of November, December, January, February and April. Rest of the months, tourists can find it cumbersome due to the hot and rainy weather conditions.
