Fatehpur Sikri–Akbar’s Lucky Charm!

Your travel package to Agra will always include Fatehpur Sikri, which was Akbar’s political capital for a period of about twelve years as he thought that this place brought him luck. A splendid example of the much acclaimed Mogul art and architecture, this city of the Muslim period boasts of the Diwan-e-Am, Diwan-e-Khas, Buland Darwaza, Saint Sheikh Salim Chisti’s tomb, Jodhabai Palace, Jama Masjid, and the Panch Mahal.

The Diwan-e-Am was the place where a lot of people would assemble mainly to play Pachisi in the Pachisi courtyard in the vicinity. In the Pachisi game, girls were used in places of pawns on a huge marble board according to the outcome of dice. The Diwan-i-Khas along with the Lotus Throne Pillar and Akbar’s throne are absolutely mesmerizing. The 54 ft. high Buland Darwaza (Gate of Victory) was constructed in honor of Emperor Akbar after his Gujrat conquest. The Shahi Darwaza (The Royal Gate) is the formal entrance. You can find multilingual official guides who will help you in exploring these places. The Jama Masjid is the sacred prayer venue of the Muslims. It is a replica of the Mecca Masjid and is a mix of Hindu and Persian architectural masterpiece.

The tomb of Saint Salim Chisti, built in 1570, is a marvelous marble-lattice screened tribute to the great saint. The tomb of Saint Islam Khan and the saint’s garden are also found in the premises.

Jodhabai’s Palace is an epitome of Hindu-Muslim architectural elegance. This is where Jehengir’s mother Jodhabai along with the other queens and princesses would reside. The Golden Façade (Palace of Akbar’s Christian Queen) is located in the vicinity. The Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) is an extraordinary example of stone lattice works. The Panch Mahal was Akbar’s Palace of entertainment. This adorable example of aristocracy got its name from its five levels.

You can visit Fatehpur Sikri from dawn to dusk on all days except Sunday. Entry is free on Fridays. You can ask your travel agent to book tickets for you to Fatehpur Sikri any day between November and February. You can reach Agra by airways, roadways or railways. Air travel can be more expensive though you can avail some cheap flight if you book your seat well in advance. If you are an international traveler you can take an Air India flight to Delhi. From there you can take either Air Deccan or Spice Jet, which are budget airways.

Don’t forget to visit the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary in Rajasthan next, if you are passionate about wildlife.