The ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri is home to well-preserved courtyards, palaces, pavilions and arches within its walls. Foreign visitors flock here to photograph the superb regal architecture. The striking red hue of the buildings is particularly pronounced at sundown. Wander the abandoned city and admire the grand structures, which reveal details about court life in one of the world’s most powerful dynasties.
The complex became the capital of the empire in 1571, but was abandoned just 14 years later due to water shortages. It was built by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar, who was known for his policy of religious tolerance and for his sympathetic approach to the conquered Hindu subjects. As you explore, note the unique mixture of Muslim and Hindu architectural elements that exist within the walled city.
Begin by viewing the main imperial complex, which can be found to the north of the Agra-Bikaner Road. Here you’ll see a cluster of exceptional monuments. Though the red sandstone building material gives an impression of uniformity, the architectural styles are actually rather eclectic. Check out the Diwan-i-Am, the Hall of Public Audience, where Emperor Akbar would have dealt out justice, and the Diwan-i-Khas, the Hall of Private Audiences, a circular debating chamber. Facing this is the treasury, which now houses an Archaeological Museum, where exhibits showcase pre-Mughal artifacts excavated from this site.
Other highlights within the city include the three palaces, each of which was occupied by one of the emperor’s wives. Be sure to stop by the Palace of Jodha Bai, which boasts beautiful glazed blue roof tiles and Islamic-style cupolas. The neighboring Maryam-Ki-Kothi (Palace of the Christian Wife) also contains domed Islamic-style ceilings and the remnants of an old Hindu wall mural. Don’t miss the Jama Masjid, a great mosque that could accommodate about 10,000 worshippers during its prime.
Fatehpur Sikri is open from sunrise to sunset and is best visited between November and March, when the weather is mild and most suited to sightseeing. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds. The ancient city is situated about 22 miles (35 kilometers) away from Agra and is a popular daytrip destination, with numerous bus connections arriving at and departing from the Gate of Agra.
