Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is in the Doab region of Uttar Pradesh, India. About 40km away from Agra, it is one of India's UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Understand
Get in
See
Buland DarwazaThis grand gate was built to commemorate the military triumphs of Mughal emperor Akbar in Gujarat.
Jama Masjid
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Tomb of Salim Chishti
address: DadupuraSalim Chishti was a Sufi saint, dearly respected by Emperor Akbar. In fact, the emperor held Salim in such great esteem that he named his son Salim (who would later be known as the Mughal emperor Jahangir) in honour of the saint. The mausoleum built for Salim Chishti in 1580 and 1581 is considered to be one of the greatest examples of Mughal architecture. Ibadat Khana
Panch MahalLiterally translating to "Five Palace", the five-storey building stands out from the rest of the complex with its almost Buddhist pagoda-like influences in its architectural design.
Naubat KhanaIt is here where the musicians of the court would play songs to announce the arrival or departure of the emperor, and for various other ceremonies.
Anup TalaoThe red sandstone architectural symmetry of the walls and bridges that crisscross the artificial lake or pool is beautiful but the water nowadays is polluted and dirty.
Samosa MahalThe funny name of the palace (samosa referring to the pyramidal shaped dumplings in Indian cuisine) is because the it does, in fact, resemble a samosa! It is clean and well maintained, though be wary of the guides in the palace, who can be pushy and touty.
Hiran MinarA high, circular tower covered in spikes that look like elephant tusks. Akbar is said to have built it in remembrance of his beloved elephant, Hiran.
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Birbal Bhawan
address: DadupuraBirbal was a Hindu courtier of Akbar, who ended up becoming one of Akbar's closest and most trusted military advisors. The stone carvings and interior of the palace where Birbal lived are magnificent.
Eat
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phone: +91 99977 02459address: Hotel Goverdhan, Shahcoolie, DadupuraNorth Indian vegetarian and vegan food in a casual setting.
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Sher-e-Punjab
phone: +91 98372 26765address: Fatehpur Sikri Bypass CrossingPunjabi and other North Indian food with non-vegetarian and vegetarian options. The meals are hearty and feel satisfying after a long day of sightseeing.
Sleep
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phone: +91 94125 16664address: Buland Gate CrossingHotel with basic amenities.