UNESCO Heritage Site Of India-Fatehpur Sikri: Complete Tourist Information

Location: Agra District, Uttar Pradesh, India

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Inscribed in 1986

Overview

Fatehpur Sikri, located approximately 40 kilometers from Agra, Uttar Pradesh, is a historic city and a stunning example of Mughal architecture. Built by Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century, Fatehpur Sikri served as the capital of the Mughal Empire for about 14 years. The city is renowned for its well-preserved palaces, courtyards, and mosques, blending Islamic, Hindu, and Jain architectural styles. Today, Fatehpur Sikri is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the Mughal era.

Historical Background

Founding of the City: Emperor Akbar founded Fatehpur Sikri in 1571 after his visit to the Sufi saint Sheikh Salim Chishti, who predicted the birth of Akbar’s heir. In honor of the saint, Akbar built a magnificent city at the site where the saint lived. The city served as the Mughal capital from 1571 to 1585.
Architectural Significance: Fatehpur Sikri is an architectural marvel, representing the peak of Mughal architecture with its red sandstone buildings, intricate carvings, and expansive courtyards. The city’s design reflects Akbar’s vision of religious tolerance, with influences from Islamic, Hindu, and Jain styles.
Decline: The city was abandoned in 1585, largely due to water shortages and its strategic vulnerability to nearby Rajputana regions. Despite its brief tenure as the Mughal capital, Fatehpur Sikri remains one of the most important and best-preserved examples of Mughal architecture in India.

Key Attractions in Fatehpur Sikri

Buland Darwaza:
- Great Gate: The Buland Darwaza, or “Gate of Magnificence,” is the grand entrance to Fatehpur Sikri and one of the largest gateways in the world. Standing at 54 meters high, it was built in 1601 to commemorate Akbar’s victory over Gujarat. The gateway is an iconic symbol of Mughal architecture, with its towering arches, intricate carvings, and inscriptions from the Quran.
Jama Masjid:
- Congregational Mosque: The Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India and a major landmark within Fatehpur Sikri. Built in 1571, it is a beautiful blend of Persian and Mughal architectural styles. The mosque’s vast courtyard, flanked by domes and minarets, served as the main place of worship for the royal family and the city’s inhabitants.
- Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti: Located within the mosque complex, the white marble tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti is a revered pilgrimage site. The tomb is known for its exquisite marble lattice screens (jalis) and the intricately carved canopy above the grave. Visitors often tie threads on the jalis to make a wish, a tradition believed to bring good fortune.
Diwan-i-Khas:
- Hall of Private Audience: The Diwan-i-Khas is a striking structure within Fatehpur Sikri, known for its unique central pillar, which supports a circular platform where Akbar would sit during private audiences. The hall’s interior is richly decorated with carvings and is an excellent example of the fusion of different architectural styles, combining elements of Hindu, Jain, and Islamic design.
Diwan-i-Aam:
- Hall of Public Audience: The Diwan-i-Aam was the space where Akbar would address the general public and listen to their grievances. The hall is an open structure with a large courtyard, surrounded by arcades. The central throne platform, where Akbar would sit, is a key feature of the hall.
Panch Mahal:
- Five-Storeyed Palace: The Panch Mahal is a five-tiered pavilion with diminishing levels as it rises. The structure was designed to be a pleasure palace and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Each floor is supported by intricately carved columns, with the topmost pavilion providing a breezy retreat from the summer heat.
Birbal’s House:
- Residence of Akbar’s Advisor: This elegant building was the residence of Birbal, one of Akbar’s most trusted advisors. The house is noted for its ornate carvings and fine stonework, reflecting Birbal’s high status in the Mughal court.
Jodha Bai’s Palace:
- Queen’s Residence: This palace was the residence of Akbar’s principal wife, Mariam-uz-Zamani, commonly known as Jodha Bai. The palace is a blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, featuring spacious rooms, a private courtyard, and a beautiful jharokha (balcony).
Anup Talao:
- Ornamental Pool: The Anup Talao is an ornamental pool located near the Diwan-i-Khas. The pool is surrounded by a raised platform connected by four bridges, and it is believed that Tansen, the legendary musician, would perform here, filling the area with music.
Hiran Minar:
- Elephant Tower: The Hiran Minar is a circular tower built by Akbar, possibly in memory of his favorite elephant. The tower is covered with stone projections resembling elephant tusks and is located near the royal hunting grounds.

Visiting Information

Timings: Fatehpur Sikri is open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day. It is advisable to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for Indian citizens is INR 50, while for foreign nationals it is INR 610. Children below 15 years can enter for free. There is also a separate fee for visiting the Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti and for photography.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Fatehpur Sikri is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant. Summers can be extremely hot, making it uncomfortable for sightseeing.

How to Reach Fatehpur Sikri

By Air: The nearest airport is Agra’s Kheria Airport, about 40 kilometers away. The airport is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Mumbai. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach Fatehpur Sikri.
By Train: Fatehpur Sikri has its own railway station, which is connected to Agra and other nearby towns. However, the Agra Cantonment Railway Station, about 37 kilometers away, is the nearest major railhead, with more frequent connections to other parts of India.
By Road: Fatehpur Sikri is well-connected by road to Agra and other cities in Uttar Pradesh. Buses and taxis are readily available from Agra to Fatehpur Sikri. The journey takes about an hour by road.

Nearby Attractions

Taj Mahal: Located in Agra, about 40 kilometers from Fatehpur Sikri, the Taj Mahal is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is a masterpiece of Mughal architecture.
Agra Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Agra Fort is a massive red sandstone fortress located on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra. The fort served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until the capital was shifted to Delhi.
Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb: Often referred to as the “Baby Taj,” this tomb in Agra is the final resting place of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, the grandfather of Mumtaz Mahal. It is considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal with its intricate marble inlay work.
Mehtab Bagh: A garden complex on the opposite side of the Yamuna River from the Taj Mahal, offering stunning views of the monument, especially at sunset.

Tips for Visitors

Wear Comfortable Shoes: Exploring Fatehpur Sikri involves a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Carry Water and Snacks: There are limited facilities inside the complex, so it’s advisable to carry water, snacks, and sun protection.
Hire a Guide: To fully appreciate the historical and architectural significance of Fatehpur Sikri, consider hiring a licensed guide or using an audio guide.
Respect the Heritage: Visitors should refrain from touching the monuments, littering, or making noise. Fatehpur Sikri is a protected heritage site, and maintaining its sanctity is important.
Photography: Photography is allowed, but it’s important to respect signs where photography is prohibited, especially inside religious sites like the tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti.

Conclusion

Fatehpur Sikri is a remarkable blend of history, architecture, and culture, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the grandeur of the Mughal era. The city’s monuments, from the imposing Buland Darwaza to the serene Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti, reflect Emperor Akbar’s vision and the artistic achievements of his time. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or spiritual seeker, Fatehpur Sikri provides an enriching experience that captures the essence of India’s rich heritage.