Fatehpur Sikri is an ancient red stone city of Uttar Pradesh. It is located at a distance of 37 km from Agra city. This was also the great royal capital of Emperor Akbar in 1569. Moreover, the city was the capital of the Mughal Empire for just fourteen years. It is also now a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site. So, we also help you explore the best Agra Tourism Places. The city is a historic place, and walking through it is like walking through a storybook. Giant gates, quiet courtyards, and beautiful stone art will be visible. Thus, one of the best day trips from Agra or Delhi. So, let’s check out everything about Fatehpur Sikri Agra: Tickets, History & Important Visitor Info.
Quick Facts: Fatehpur Sikri Agra.
- Location: Fatehpur Sikri, Agra District, Uttar Pradesh.
- GPS Coordinates: 27.0900° N, 77.6634° E
- UNESCO Classification: Natural Site (Inscribed in 1986).
- Built In: 1571 – 1585 AD.
- Built by: Emperor Akbar.
- Building Style: Indo-Islamic Red Sandstone.
- Time: 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM
- Ticket Price USD 0.40 Online / USD 0.55 Cash (Indians), USD 5.75 Online / USD 6.25 Cash (Foreigners).
- Visit Time: 2-3 hours.
Why Is Fatehpur Sikri Agra Famous?
Fatehpur Sikri is famous as Emperor Akbar’s abandoned capital city. Also, one of the most preserved historic sites in India. The red stone buildings combine the design elements of the Hindu, Jain, and Islamic religions. Buland Darwaza is also the highest gateway in the world in the city. The white marble Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti is also visited by visitors for the purpose of prayer.
Is it worth Visiting?
Yes, it is certainly worth your time. The city provides an unmistakable glimpse into the royal Mughal life. It has ample space for walking and is much less crowded than the Taj Mahal. The level courts are easy to navigate for families and senior citizens.
The History Behind the Red City.
For many years, Emperor Akbar didn’t have any surviving sons. He went to the village of Sikri to visit a Sufi saint named Sheikh Salim Chishti. The saint blessed Akbar and foretold the birth of a baby boy. Shortly afterwards, in 1569, a son was born. Named Salim (later Jahangir) by Akbar. In honour of the saint, Akbar built a new capital at Sikri in 1571. However, the royal court left the city in 1585. There was also a scarcity of drinking water in the region. So, Akbar had to fight wars to the north. For centuries, the city remained empty, and its stone buildings were protected.
Main Highlights You Must See at Fatehpur Sikri Agra.
The most important things to do and see while in the main.
Buland Darwaza (Gate of Victory).
This is a 54m high giant front door. Moreover, the broad views of the local hills are gained by climbing up the front stone steps.
Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti.
This is also a quiet tomb within the mosque courtyard. Built from pure white marble and has narrow carved stone windows.
Panch Mahal.
This is a special palace with five floors that become smaller as they ascend. Also supported by 176 stone pillars cut into stone. Furthermore, this open tower with a breezy design was used by the royal women to draw cool air in summer.
Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience).
In the center of this hall is a well-known stone pillar. Furthermore, Akbar was seated on this high throne when he was conversing with the scholars of various religions.
Jodha Bai Palace.
It is also the biggest palace in the palace grounds that is still inhabited. It has Hindu art designs such as lotus flowers, bells, and peacocks alongside Islamic arches.
Anup Talao.
It is a square water pool in the middle of the palace court. The great singer Tansen would sit on a little central platform and sing for the Emperor.
Best Time to Visit.
The ideal time to visit Fatehpur Sikri is from October to March. Because the weather is cool, making it easy to walk outside.
- Morning (8:00 AM – 11:00 AM): Visit early to avoid the heat of the day and the large tour bus.
- Late Afternoon (3:30 PM – 5:30 PM): The red stone is covered by warm sunlight. Thus, making it look bright orange in photographs.
Opening Hours & Schedule.
- Opening Hours: Gates open at sunrise ( 6:00 AM) and close at sunset.
- Weekly Schedule: Fridays are included in the complex’s hours.
Entry Fees & Ticket Details.
- Indian Citizens: US$ 0.40 (Online) or US$ 0.55(Cash).
- Foreign Visitors: US$ 5.75(Online) or US$ 6.25(Cash).
- Child Under 15: Also, entry is free for children of all countries.
How to Reach Fatehpur Sikri.
- By Private Car or Taxi.
The distance from Agra to Jaipur is 37 km along the Jaipur Highway (NH-21), which takes around 1 hour. Additionally, a private cab is the most comfortable option for travelling. - By Bus.
The state buses run from Idgah Bus Stand in Agra every 30 minutes. It takes almost 1 ½ hours on the bus. - By Train.
Agra Fort Station is connected to Fatehpur Sikri Station (FTS) with daily local passenger trains. Furthermore, it takes about 45 minutes to get to the train station.
You can also check out: 4 Days Golden Triangle Tour.
Things to Do at Fatehpur Sikri Agra.
- Walk through Buland Darwaza: Stand under the high arch and gaze down over the green plains.
- Tie a Wish Thread: Go to Salim Chishti’s tomb and tie a thread on the marble window net.
- Walk the Royal Courts: Walk through the open rooms of Panch Mahal and Jodha Bai Palace.
- Listen to Qawwali Music: On Fridays, local Sufi singers play peaceful music around the tomb.
Easy Photography Tips.
- Stand at the bottom of the front steps to get the full height of Buland Darwaza.
- Thereafter, photograph the soft light falling through the fine marble grills of the Chishti tomb.
- Then, take pictures of large open courtyards in a wide camera mode.
- Tripods, drones and large video tools are not permitted in the building by security guards. So, don’t pack those.
Nearby Attractions around Fatehpur Sikri Agra.
- Agra Red Fort (37 km): The main red stone fort of the Mughal kings.
- Taj Mahal (40 km): The world-famous white marble monument of India.
- Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary (25 km): A renowned bird sanctuary located in Bharatpur.
What are the Nearby Hotels?
- Hotel Fatehpur Sikri Heights: A basic budget hotel that is also close to the gate.
- The Oberoi Amarvilas (Agra): A luxury hotel to stay at before embarking on a day trip here.
- Kadam Kunj Resort (Bharatpur): A peaceful hotel just a few miles away.
Fatehpur Sikri Agra: Nearby Restaurants.
- Ganpati Resort Restaurant: Hot Indian thalis and clean bottled drinks.
- Sikri Restaurant: Provides fast vegetarian food close to the bus stand.
- Agra Highway Dhabas: Do you love desi food? If yes, You can get hot Parathas and sweet tea on the main road.
What are the Local Shopping Places Near Fatehpur Sikri Agra?
- Stone Crafts: Small shops sell small marble boxes. Also, carved stone items.
- Perfumery: Traditional perfumes, which are not alcoholic, are sold in shops around the mosque.
Fatehpur Sikri Agra Safety Tips.
So, follow the safety tips.
- Do not enter deserted ruins outside the town walls.
- Moreover, always use clean bottled water from reputable brands.
- Before entering the vehicle, discuss with the driver of the car the cost of the ride.
Interesting Facts about Fatehpur Sikri Agra.
Akbar named the city Fatehabad (City of Victory) after he won a war in Gujarat. Later, it was known as Fatehpur Sikri.
- The city was built from local red stone quarried from the surrounding hills.
- This was the royal capital, and it was only for a short 14 years that the royal court lived in this grand city.
- Lastly, Salim Chishti’s tomb is the only white marble building in the whole red stone city.
Tours that include Fatehpur Sikri Agra.
- Same Day Agra & Fatehpur Sikri Tour: Private Tour of Taj Mahal, Agra Fort & Fatehpur Sikri.
- Golden Triangle Tour (Delhi-Agra-Jaipur): Passes through Fatehpur Sikri on the way from Agra to Jaipur.
You can also check out: 4 Days Delhi and Agra Heritage Tour.
Plan Your Visit.
Fatehpur Sikri is a wonderful glimpse into Mughal history. It is a unique place to visit near Agra with tall gates, red stone halls, and a quiet marble tomb. Looking to visit Akbar’s historical red city? So, call us today to reserve your private car tour! Thus, book your customized tour today.
Frequently Asked Questions.
After 14 years, people left the city due to a lack of drinking water.
Yes! It is open all week long, including Friday! So, you can book a tour any day.
No. The primary ticket will allow you to view all gates, tombs, and palaces.
The green shuttle bus from Gulistan parking is available for ₹25.
Yes. It is located on the main road from Agra to Jaipur. Moreover, you can book a Golden Triangle Tour, which covers both cities.
Wear clothes that cover knees and shoulders. Also, wear decent attire.
If the photo is of the tall gate, stand at the bottom of the front steps.
It’s a local tradition. So, a thread is tied when people make a wish.
No big bags or food will be permitted. Moreover, only one water bottle is allowed.
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