Tourists who come to Agra to visit Taj Mahal and Agra fort must find some time to visit Fatehpur Sikri, a city that presents you with some enchanting sights as good as the other destinations. This beautiful city lies 45km away from Agra on the Jaipur highway. This magnificent fortifies city is an example of Mughal architecture. The visitors get a chance to experience the enchanting beauty of the Mughal era.
Mughal architecture is a fusion of Hindu and Muslim culture. The spectacular constructions during Mughal era is spread over India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. The Mughal architecture has its beginning since the time of Babar, the founder of Mughal empire. Babar ruled India for five years and only a few constructions from his era remains. All Mughal emperors except Aurangzeb encouraged art and architecture. Most of these constructions were done during the reign of Akbar. His era saw magnificent constructions using red stone. Shah Jahan’s era saw the most beautiful constructions coming up. The spectacular buildings during his rule were made of marble and he left behind a great legacy of structures including Taj Mahal. Aurangzeb had no interest in Art or architecture and so Mughal architecture saw a decline during and after his reign. Mughal architecture was highly influenced by Indian, Pakistani, Afghani and Iranian culture.
Fatehpur Sikri was a beautiful ancient city built by the Sikrival Rajput rajas. In the earlier days, it was known as Sikrighad. In 1569, Akbar made this city the capital of Mughal empire. The authenticity of the city has been preserved well. Many Bollywood movies like Jodha Akbar and Anarkali has given us an insight to the stunning beauty of the structures here. Buland Darwaza, which was built to commemorate the conquer of Gujarat by Akbar is an exemplary of Mughal architecture. Tis magnificent gate is 55 m high and the entrance for the common citizens to enter the Fatehpur palace.
Another major attraction in Fatehpur is the ‘Jama Masjid, a mosque built in the 17th century. There is a 20m long tunnel here known as the ‘Anarkali Surang’. It is believed that this underground tunnel leads to 3 cities including Lahore from Delhi. The other important attractions are the Panch Mahal, Diwani Khas, Birbal’s house and many other beautiful constructions around the palace. The entry fee is Rs.30. You can also avail the help of tourist guides or audio guides.
