Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri is a city which is situated 37 kms from Agra. It is a city which was primarily built of Red Sandstone, during 1571 and 1585, by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Akbar had actually planned to make this city his capital, but as there was shortage of water in this place, his plans were abandoned. About 20 years later the Mughal capital was shifted to Lahore.

Although the city is now in ruins, yet the remains showcase some of the finest examples of Mughal architecture. Most probably this place is the best example of the mixture of Hindu and Muslim architecture. It is believed that the Fatehpur Sikri Mosque is same as the Mecca Mosque and the designs in it are taken from the Hindu and Persian architecture.

The prime attractions of Fatehpur Sikri are Diwan-I-Am (Hall Of Public Audience), Diwan-khana-I-khaas (Hall Of Private Audience), Turkish Sultana’s House, Ankh Michauli (the Treasury), Daulat khana-I-khas (the emperor’s private chamber), Palace of Jodha Bai, Hawa Mahal (the Palace of Winds) and Nagina Masjid, Birbal’s Palace, Sunehra Makan (palace of Akbar’s Rajput wife, Mariam-Uz-Zamani), Panch Mahal (airy 5 storeyed pavilion), Dargah Of Sheikh Salim Chisti, The Jami Masjid, and Buland Darwaza.

The Dargah of Sheikh Salim Chisti is one of the most famous places in Fatehpur Sikri. It is believed that childless women came here to offer prayers and get the blessings of the saint so that they are blessed with children. It is said that even Akbar was blessed with three sons after he visited the dargah. The pattern of work present in the Dargah is one of the finest works that can be found in India. Equally famous is the Buland Darwaza which was built in 1602 AD to celebrate Akbar’s victory over Deccan. It is not only the highest and grandest gateway in India but it is also ranked among the biggest in the entire world.