A bespoke story: Fatehpur Sikri & Agra Fort

Travel as often and as much as you can. That is what you will feel when you start exploring the beautiful and diverse South Asian country - India. Each town and city has a bespoke story to tell, a unique past to share - reminiscing of rich cultural history and difficult conquests. One such northern state is Agra in India. It is world-famous for monuments such as Fatehpur Sikri and Agra Fort, standing tall today and forever, telling their stories! 

About Fatehpur Sikri

Around 40 km from Agra is located a beautiful town made entirely with red sandstone and stunning artistry, known as Fatehpur Sikri. During 1571-1585, Mughal Emperor Akbar built the city in memory of great Sufi saint Sheikh Salim Chisti. The great emperor planned the city as his capital, but the water shortage compelled him to abandon the city. Once a flourishing town is today a ghost city with some 30,000 inhabitants. But despite all this, the city retains its historical richness, architectural splendour, and fascinating combination of Islamic and Hindu elements in design and style. 

Diwan-i-am

Diwan-i-am, or the hall of public audience, was used for celebrations and public prayers. Here, Emperor Akbar heard all public petitions in the morning and tried to deliver justice. The most attractive feature of this rectangular courtyard is the throne chamber facing eastwards. It is believed that Akbar built it due to his faith in 'sun worship'. 

Diwan-Khana-I-Khaas

The emperor Akbar was known for his secular outlook, which was considered way ahead of his time. He had a keen interest in learning about other religions, due to which, he invited religious scholars to hold dialogues and discussions about other faiths and religious practices. The structure is one of the most beautiful parts of Fatehpur Sikri and presents a fine example of Persian architecture. 

Fatehpur Sikri, Agra

Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh 283110, India

Buland Darwaza 

Buland Darwaza, the highest gateway globally, was built in 1575 AD by Mughal emperor Akbar to commemorate his victory over Gujrat. The monument also bears testimony to Akbar's religious tolerance. On the gateway's central face, there is an inscription in the Persian language depicting the advice of Jesus Christ. Another inscription includes verses from the Holy Quran. Apart from these, the huge pillars are adorned with intricate designs and fine craftsmanship. Further, the best time to visit this wondrous monument is from November to March. Summer months can be very scorching. 

Jami Masjid

Jami Masjid is one of the first structures erected in the city. Today, it is one of the most popular visited sites in Agra. Many also consider it a pilgrimage destination. Being a world heritage site, tourists often visit the structure and admire its combination of Islamic and Persian architecture. The interiors of the mosque are embellished with floral designs. 

Agra Fort

Located on the banks of river Yamuna, the Red Fort of Agra or Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is situated some 2.5 km from its world-famous sister monument, the Taj Mahal. Within the premise of the Agra Fort, one can find some stunning structures, which are mentioned below:

Jehangir Mahal

The Mughal Emperor Akbar built the Jehangir Mahal as a women's quarters. It was built adjacent to the chamber of Jodha Bai, his favourite queen. The structure is known for its simple design and is made entirely of stone. 

Khas Mahal

This structure combines classical Persian and Islamic designs together with interspersed Hindu motifs. It was the emperor's sleeping chamber or 'Araamgah'. 

Sheesh Mahal

One of the most fascinating parts of Agra Fort is the Sheesh Mahal. The structure served as a 'harem' or dressing room and employed advanced water engineering designs. Mosaic of myriad tiny mirrors adorn the structure, hence its name Sheesh Mahal. 

Agra Fort, Agra

Agra Fort, Rakabganj, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282003, India

Agra in India is an ancient city. From its mention in the mythological texts to the Muslim ruler Sultan Sikandar Lodi in 1504, the city has come a long way ever since. But its historical structures, like Fatehpur Sikri and Agra Fort, remain a popular site for tourists. The monuments have stood the test of time as well as conquests and are ready to share a bespoke story. It is time you visit Agra to explore how the past amalgamates with the present and creates interesting stories for travellers.