Fatehpur Sikri - Fact File
Location : Uttar Pradesh, India.
Founded by : Akbar
Built in : 1570-1586
Famous as : World Heritage Site
Main Languages : Hindi and Urdu.
Major Attractions : Diwan-I-Aam, Diwan-I-Khaas, Jami Masjid, Palace of Jodha Bai, Panch Mahal, Birbal's Palace, Buland Darwaza, Ankh Michauli.
Climate : Extreme climate, Maximum temp : 45°C, Minimum temp : 4°C .
Ideal Time to Visit : October to March.



Fatehpur Sikri - the City of Victory
Fathepur Sikri, the city of victory is located 35 kms south-west of Agra. The city was built by Mughal Emperor Akbar following his victory over the Rajputs. Between 1570 and 1586, Fathepur Sikri was the capital of Mughal emperor Akbar. The shortage of water compelled him to abandon the city and reshift the capital to Agra. Built predominantly in red sandstone, Fatehpur Sikri is one of the excellent examples of Mughal architectural splendour. The buildings of the town were a fine blend of the Hindu and Muslim styles of architecture. Today this city is in ruins but it is a nicely preserved Mughal city and has retained many of the old structures. The deserted city lies along the top of the ridge, while the modern city is down on the southern side. The entrance to the city is through Shahi Darwaza located to the east.

According to legends Akbar was without a male heir and made a pilgrimage to the see the Muslim Fakir Shaikh Salim Chisti. By the blessing of the saint, Jodhabai one of the princess of Akbar gave birth to a son. In gratitude of the Fakir, Akbar shifted his capital to native place of the Fakir and named his son Salim (Jehangir).

Fatehpur Sikri Palace
The palace was built by Mughal emperor Akbar. Fatehpur Sikri Palace was built on a range of hills about 2 miles in length and 1 mile wide. It was surrounded by in its three sides by wall and on the fourth side by an artificial lake extending over 30 miles. The palace is dived into four parts such as the daulat khana (treasury in the centre), a princes' palace, arms and ammunition stocks and the haram sara (queen's chambers). The main entrance to this palace is through the Hathi pol or the Elephant Gate. Fahtehpur Sikri Palace houses a number of magnificent buildings such as Diwan-I-Aam, Diwan-I-Khaas, Palace of Jodha Bai, Panch Mahal, Birbal Palace etc.

Diwan-I-Aam : Diwan-I-Aam is located just inside the gates at the north-east end of the deserted city. The 'Hall of Public Audiences' consists of large open courtyard surrounded by cloisters. Diwan-I-Aam is the place where the emperor Akbar presented himself before the people every morning. It is said that Akbar used to play Chess here, using slave girls as the pieces.

Diwan-I-Khaas : Diwan-I-Khaas or the Hall of Private Audience is a two storeyed building. The exterior of the hall is simple but its interior is quite fascinating. A stone column stands in the centre of the hall supporting a flat-topped throne. From the four corners of the building stone bridges lead across this throne.

Panch Mahal : The Panch Mahal or 'Five Storey Palace' is a five-storeyed building. It is built is Persian architectural style like a Buddhist monastery. The palace was probably used by the ladies of the court and originally had stone screens on the sides. Each of the five storeys is stepped back from the previous one and its dome is supported by four columns. The number of pillars has gradually diminished from the 84 on the first floor to the 4 on the top floor.

Palace of Jodha Bai : The Palace is named after Jehangir's wife Jodha Bai. This palace is a fine blend of architecture styles having Hindu columns and Muslim Cupolas. Inside the palace is the 'Palace of the Winds' which is projecting room with walls entirely made of stone lattice work.

Birbal Palace : The Palace of Birbal, Akbar's favorite courtier, is extremely elegant in its design and execution. Birbal was noted for his wit and wisdom, unfortunately he lost his life and most of his army near Peshwar in 1586.

Miriam's House : Miriam's House also called the 'Golden House' was the house of Akbar's wife. Miriam was the Christian wife of the emperor who came from Goa.

Ankh Michauli : Ankha Michauli is the place where the emperor used to play hide and seek with ladies of the harem. This building was probably used for storing records.

Other Attractions
Sheikh Salim Chisti Dargah : The tomb of Sheikh Salim Chisti was originally made of red sandstone but it was later rebuilt in white marble. The white marble tomb was built by emperor Jehangir.

How to Reach Fatehpur Sikri
By Air : Nearest airport is Kheria airport (40 kms) in Agra which is connected to major cities of India.

By Rail : Daily trains are available from Agra Fort railway station to Fatehpur Sikri.

By Road : Fathepur Sikri is well connected by roads with Agra and other cities of India. Regular buses run from Agra's Idgah bus stand to Fatehpur Sikri. Taxis and cars are also available from Agra.