Fatehpur Sikri

The ghost city of Fatehpur Sikri.

From 1571 untill 1585 Fatehpur Sikri was the capital of the Mughal Empire. Emperor Akbar, a couple of years earlier, went to see a Muslim holy man, named Shaikh Salim Chishti. The saint foretold the Emperor the birth of three sons. This prophecy came true and because of this Akbar decided to build a new capital in Fatehpur Sikri, the village of Shaikh Salim Chishti.

However, 14 years later, due to water supply problems, the brand new city had to be abandoned. Fatehpur Sikri has since than been a ghost city. The city is a well preserved magnificent example of unique Mughal architecture. Many people visit this ghost city on a day trip from Agra, which is 1 ½ hours by bus.

The historic part of Fatehpur Sikri is open from 6 am to 5.30 pm. Guides are available. Things to see are: Jama Masjid (Dargah Mosque), the tomb of Shaikh Salim Chishti, the Palace of Jodh Bal, Birbal Bhavan, Karawan Serai, Hiram Minar, the Palace of the Christian wife, the Panch Mahal, Diwan-I-Am, Naubat khana, Hakim’s House.

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