Fatehpur Sikri At Agra

Introduction and history: The Fatehpur Sikri city located in Agra district of Uttar Pradesh. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar, which remained as the political capital from 1571 until 1585, which was abandoned later due to lack of water. The name of the place came after Mughal Emperor Babur defeated Rana Sanga in a battle at a place called Khanwa (about 40 KM from Agra). Today this ghost city has a population of about 30,000. This deserted city has retained many of the old structures, because of the efforts of the Archaeological department. Fatehpur Sikri is one of the finest examples of Mughal architectural splendor at its height. Though the city is in ruins, it is a place to visit if one comes to Agra.

What to see and when to go: The city consists of many monuments which include Tomb of Shaikh Salim Chisti, Place of Jodha Bai, Birbal Bhawan, Karawan Serai and Hiran Minar, Palace of the Christian Wife, Panch Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas and Diwan-i-Aam. November to February is the best time to visit this place.

Things to do: Apart from this Agra has the word famous Taj Mahal. Agra Fort, Itimadi-ud-daula, Akbar’s Tomb and Sikandara are some of the other tourist attractions.

Accommodation: Agra has a wide range of hotels and rest houses. UP state tourism development corporation has its tourist complex, Taj Khema near the Taj Mahal. It offers accommodation in tents and deluxe rooms. Hotels and restaurants offer Indian, Continental and Chinese food. Mughal cuisine is Agra’s specialty.

Mode of transport: The Agra is well connected to Delhi (203 kilometers) by many flights, which takes about 40 minutes by air. Quite a number of trains running between Delhi and Varanasi pass via Agra

Timings: The Fatehpur Sikri is open all days between 6:00 am to 7:30 pm.

Is it a world heritage site? : Yes
• Entry number: 255
• Link: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/255