Fatehpur Sikri is the imperial city of the Mughal dynasty. Mughal Emperor Akbar, who was known for his interest in literature, architecture, and the arts, built the royal city at Fatehpur Sikri, situated 26 miles west of Agra (city of the Tajmahal, India). He is also reputed to be a very tolerant ruler and the buildings at Fatehpur Sikri blend both Islamic and Hindu elements in their architectural style. The architectural grandeur of this deserted city cannot be described in words and one can only experience the aura of its magnificent edifices by seeing them. If you are looking for something that symbolizes the grandeur of the Mughals, Fatehpur Sikri is a must-see during your Taj Mahal tour in Agra.

Fatehpur Sikri was the political capital of the Mughal Empire between 1571 and 1585. The emperor reigning during this period was Akbar. Agra was the then capital city of the Mughal rule. The dynasty’s treasure, arsenal and other precious belongings were kept in Fatehpur Sikri.Fatehpur Sikri is a World Heritage Site and has one of the largest mosques in India the Jama Masjid.

The buildings within Fatehpur Sikri are a unique blend of different architectural traditions. Though the general layout and concept of the buildings conform to the Islamic style of architecture, the actual buildings (mainly palaces), their ornate columns, arches, carving style, etc., show a strong Hindu style in general and that of Gujarat and Rajasthan in particular. There are a number of buildings within the Fatehpur Sikri complex to be savoured during your Taj holidays in Agra. Each of the small palaces in Fatehpur Sikri has a specific purpose and generally faces a courtyard. Diwan-I-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) is an enclosed space surrounded by colonnades and has a large open area where petitioners and courtiers once stood in attendance; Diwan-I-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) - used for serious, confidential, diplomatic and religious discourses - is famous for its central decorated pillar consisting of 36 elegantly carved brackets in the Gujarati style - heavy and ornate, and sprouting in shape; Panch Mahal (five-tiered palace) is an intriguing five-storied pavilion of winds. The Turkish Sultan's palace is known for exquisitely carved panels depicting wildlife-lions, birds, and foliage. Near the Diwan-I-Aam, one can see a tank called the Anup Talao. Four bridges link the central platform at the Anup Talao. Here the famous court musician Tansen played music.

Jodha Bai's Palace (Jodha Bai was Akbar's Rajput queen) has the most distinctively Gujarati and Rajasthani architectural features. Also noteworthy are Mariam's Palace or Sunehra Makan (golden house), Palace of Birbal (one of Akbar's minister notable for his witticisms) and a miniature garden. Jami Masjid (mosque), sacred center of Sikri, symbolizes the city's spiritual prominence. In the vast courtyard stands the tomb of Sheikh Salim Chisti whose blessings are still sought by childless women.

Air:- Fatehpur Sikri is about 37 kilometers from the city of Agra. Taxis and buses are available that travel to Fatehpur Sikri.Agra airport is 7 km from the city center and 3 km from Idgah bus stand. Major Indian airlines operate daily tourist shuttle flights to Agra, Khajuraho, Varanasi and back. It only takes 40 minutes from Delhi to Agra.

Rail:-Agra is well connected by railroad. The main railway station is the Agra Cantonment station. Agra is well connected by rail to Delhi, Varanasi and cities of Rajasthan. Trains like Palace on Wheel, Shatabdi, Rajdhani, and Taj Express are the best choices if you want to reach Agra from Delhi in luxury.

November to February