Fatehpur Sikri, Agra

Located at 40 kilometers west of Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is the 16th century historic Mughal town of India. Fatehpur Sikri was built under the personal supervision of the Mughal Emperor Akbar as a tribute to the venerated Sufi saint Sheikh Salim Chisti, who blessed him with a son. The construction of Fatehpur Sikri was started in 1569 and the Mughal capital was shifted from Agra to Fatehpur Sikri (1571 to 1584). However due to a severe shortage of water the city was abandoned soon after Akbar's death in 1584, and the Mughal capital was shifted to Lahore. Fatehpur Sikri houses some of the most beautiful architectural masterpieces of Mughal India, and the 16th century town has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The historic city of Fatehpur Sikri is a completely walled city with vast red sandstone central squares, exquisitely carved multi-tiered pavilions, terraces and gardens, showing unique synthesis of Indo-Islamic style. Fatehpur Sikri houses some of the finest architectural masterpieces of Mughal India, including the famous Bulund Darwaza - the largest gateway in the world.

Other wonderful structures at Fatehpur Sikri include the Tomb of Salim Chisti, Jami Masjid, Panch Mahal and the life-size Chessboard where courtiers could play the role of pieces. Other must see tourist attractions in Fatehpur Sikri include Birbal's Palace, Turkish Sultana's House, Royal Treasury or the Daulat Khana and Jodha Bai's Palace. Visit the historic town of Fatehpur Sikri on your Agra Travel with Taj Tourism.