Fatehpur Sikri, Agra India

Fatehpur Sikri

Built by Emperor Akbar
Use Red Sandstone
Built in 1571 to 1585
About 38 km from Agra
best example of Hindu & Muslim architecture


37 kms from Agra is built a city predominantly in Red Sandstone and is called Fatehpur Sikri. This town was built by the Mughal Emperor, Akbar. He had planned this city as his capital but shortage of water compelled him to abandon the city. After this within 20 years, the capital of Mughals was shifted to Lahore.

Fatehpur Sikri was built during 1571 and 1585. 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 splendour at its height. Though the city is in ruins, it is a place to visit if one comes to Agra.But in real terms Fatehpur Sikri is a place where one should spend some time. The sunset over the ruins is sight to cherish


















::Important buildings ::
Jama Masjid or the Friday Mosque :
Also known as the Dargah Mosque, this is said to be a copy of the main mosque at Mecca. Its noted for its design which has persian and Hindu elements.

The monumental 54 m high Buland Darwaza :
the Gate of Victory, is the main entrance. It was constructed to commemorate Akbar's victory in Gujarat. A koranic inscription upon it read, "The world is a bridge, pass over it but built no house upon it. He who hopes for an hour, hopes for Eternity, for the world is but an hour". Just outside the gateway is a deep well wherein local daredevils leap from the top of the entrance into the water. The Shahi Darwaza is the official entrance, where licensed guides can be hired.

Tomb of Shaikh Salim Chisti :
The tomb visited by many seeking ful filment of their wishes was built in 1570. The carved marble lattice screens (jalis) are simply remarkable. Within the courtyard is the another tomb of Islam Khan, the saint's garden.

Place of Jodha Bai :
This was the principal harem wing for Akbar's Hindu wives, over which Jodha Bai, mother of Salim (emperor Jehangir) presided imperiously from her spacious purdah - screened salon. The architecture of the building is a blend of styles with Hindu columns and Muslim cupolas The walls of the Hawa Mahal or Palace of the winds are made entirely of stone latticework.

Birbal Bhawan :
This casket like palace belonged to Raja Birbal, Akbar's brilliant Brahimin prime minister, one of the "None Jewels of Akbar's Court". The palace fronts onto the Lower Haramsara, which was once believed to be an enormous stable with nearly two hundred enclosures for elephants, horses and camels.

Karawan Serai and Hiran Minar :
The Karawan Sarai was a large courtyard used by visiting merchants. The Hiran or Deer Minar is said to have been erected over the grave of Akbar's favourite elephant.

Palace of the Christian Wife :
There was a reperate abode for Akbar's Christian wife from Goa, Maryam, located close to the Jodha Bai Palace. At one time it was gilded throughout, earning the name the Golden Facade.

Panch Mahal :
A five storied architectural marvel and Akbar's personal citadel of pleasure, where he would spend his evenings with the ladies of the harem. Nearby is the Astrologer's seat, an ornamented pavilion where the resident astrologer played an important role in day to day court life.

Diwan-i-Khas :
Fatehpur Sikri's architectural gem, this structure is unique for its interior decoration. This single vaulted chamber is dominated by its massive central Lotus Throne Pillar that supported Akbar's throne. This stone column support a flat topped dome which is 6 m high.

Diwan-i-Aam :
This hall of public audience was designed for large public gatherings. Nearby is Pachisi courtyard, where akbar and his courtiers used slave girls attired in brilliant dress as piece of pachisi (a game similar to ludo), moving when ordered on a giant marble board.

Other Places of Interest In Agra

Taj Mahal

Agra Fort

Fatehpur Sikri

Itmad-Ud-Daulah

Akbar's Tomb, Sikandra

Swami Bagh Samadhi

Mankameshwar Temple

Guru ka Tal

Chini Ka Rauza

Ram Bagh

Mariam's Tomb

Mehtab Bagh

Keetham Lake

:: Recommended Websites on Tourism in India ::

Magic India Tour | Agra Guide | An India Tours | India Tour

Powered by http://www.magicindiatour.com

Places of Interest In Agra, India

Places of Interest In Agra

Taj Mahal

Agra Fort

Fatehpur Sikri

Itmad-Ud-Daulah

Akbar's Tomb, Sikandra

Swami Bagh Samadhi

Mankameshwar Temple

Guru ka Tal

Chini Ka Rauza

Ram Bagh

Mariam's Tomb

Mehtab Bagh

Keetham Lake

:: Recommended Websites on Tourism in India ::

Magic India Tour | Agra Guide | An India Tours | India Tour

Powered by http://www.magicindiatour.com

city of Taj mahal

Time zone: IST (UTC+5:30)
Area: 188.40 km² (73 sq mi)
District: Agra
Population: 1,400,000
Pincode: 282 XXX
Telephone: +91(562)
Vehicle: UP-80



Agra is a city on the banks of the Yamuna River in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It finds mention in the epic Mahabharata when it was called Agrabana, or Paradise. Tradition and legend ascribe the present city of Raja Badal Singh (around 1475) whose fort, Badalgarh, stood on or near the site of the present Fort. However, the 12th century Persian poet Salman writes of a desperate assault on the fortress of Agra, then held by one King Jaipal, by Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni. It was ruled by Sultan Sikandar Lodi in the year 1506. It achieved fame as the capital of the Mughal emperors from 1526 to 1658 and remains a major tourist destination because of its many splendid Mughal-era buildings, most notably the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, all three of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Geography
Agra is situated on the banks of Yamuna river. It has an average elevation of 171 metres (561 ft). On the north it is bound by Mathura, on the south by Dhaulpur, on the east by Firozabad, on the south-east by Fatehabad and on the west by Bharatpur. Agra is the third biggest city in Uttar Pradesh. The Agra district is divided into Six Tehsils and 15 Blocks. Total number of Nayay Panchayats in the district are 114 while Gram Sabhas stands at 636. The total populated villages are 904. The total number of police stations in the district are 41 out of which 16 are in Urban area and 25 are in Rural area. The total number of Railway Stations (including Halts) are 29 and Bus Stands/Bus Stops are 144. Total number of Broad Gauge lines is 196 K.M. and Meter Gauge is 35 K.M







Other Places of Interest In Agra

Agra Fort

Fatehpur Sikri

Itmad-Ud-Daulah

Akbar's Tomb, Sikandra

Swami Bagh Samadhi

Mankameshwar Temple

Guru ka Tal

Chini Ka Rauza

Ram Bagh

Mariam's Tomb

Mehtab Bagh

Keetham Lake

Powered by http://www.magicindiatour.com

:: Recommended Websites on Tourism in India ::

Magic India Tour | Agra Guide | An India Tours | India Tour

 

India Tour & Travel Tips

India-Tour-Travel-Tips
Magic India Tour wish you a very safe journey please read below tips before arrival to India.

:: Recommended Websites on Tourism in India ::

Magic India Tour | Agra Guide | An India Tours | India Tour

Health Tips

Avoid drinking water from an unknown source. When in doubt ask for
"Bisleri, Kinley, Aqua Fina, Himalaya, etc" mineral water(check
the seal). As a further precaution bring water purifying tablets.

Pharmacies or chemists are available in every little town and village
and you can buy medication. In case you need to see a doctor for
a specific condition, ask for help from your hotel (most have doctors
on call) or your tour operator. The cost of visiting a doctor is
fairly low(less than a dollar) compared to western countries.

Do remember to bring some insect repellent, mosquito coils or even
an electronic repellent. Mosquitoes in India can be fierce.

Food

Eating at small restaurants or roadside cafes can be risky because
of unhygienic cooking environments. Food poisoning is common when
eating at unreliable places. Drinking water can also be a health
hazard. It is best to carry mineral water bottles bought from a
reliable store. In summer the extreme heat can cause heat strokes
and dehydration. Taking enough fluids is an absolute must. Do not
accept any type of food from strangers while traveling by trains
or busses. Always buy water bottles from a reputable store.

:: Recommended Websites on Tourism in India ::

Magic India Tour | Agra Guide | An India Tours | India Tour

Train Tips

The image of the Indian Railways is rated poor with common complaints
being making reservations is difficult or that the signage is only
in Hindi. But the screaming need is for cleaning up the place or
that it is just too dirty for comfort. Avoid traveling in the Second
Class.

Safety

There have been many cases of tricksters cheating foreign tourists
of their medical insurance. Some touts have even offered a commission
on the insurance money. It is therefore advisable only to go for
medical emergencies to the large hospitals. Tourists coming alone
should avoid late night outings and lonely places. Female tourists
should avoid befriending or going with local peoples (few bad people
spoils the name of full country but i am interested in your safety).





Money

The local currency is the rupee (INR), which is divided into 100
paise.

Notes are available in denominations of INR1.00, 2.00, 5.00, 10.00,
20.00, 50.00, 100.00 and 500.00. Coins come in 5, 10, 20, 25 and
50 paise, and INR1.00, 2.00 and 5.00 (although the latter is very
rare).

Be careful not to accept torn notes from anyone as no-one else will
accept them, making them quite useless. Change is often in short
supply, so try not to carry large denominations.

Visitors are not allowed to bring Indian currency into India or
take it out of the country. However, you may bring an unlimited
amount of foreign currency or traveler's cheques with you. Note
that any amount exceeding USD2,500.00 must be declared on arrival
in India. Most foreign currencies and traveler's cheques can be
changed in the big cities.

If you've been in India for more than 180 days, you must obtain
a tax clearance certificate before leaving the country.

These are available at the foreigners' section of any income tax
department in larger cities. You'll need to produce bank receipts
('encashment certificates') to show that you have changed money
legally.

An easy currency­converter is available online.

You can check the value of your money right away.

All popular credit cards are easily accepted in most metropolitans
of India.

:: Recommended Websites on Tourism in India ::

Magic India Tour | Agra Guide | An India Tours | India Tour

Visas



Passports: All travellers to India must possess a valid passport.
It is advisable to carry your passport on your person all the while
in India for possible identification requirements. Citizens of Nepal
and Bhutan can travel without passport but they have to carry some
special permits.

Visas: All foreign tourists to India must possess a valid
visas. Visas are not issued on arrival. the cost of Visa is US$
30 for up to six months. US$ 50 for up to one year and US$ 100 for
more than one year. Contact the Indian embassy or consulate in your
country for issuing of visas. A tourist visa is valid for three
to six months.

Tourist visas allow multiple entry to simplify visits to neighbouring
countries. You will be required to fill in a disembarkation card
on your way to India which will have to be submitted at the Immigration
counters at the entry airport.

:: Recommended Websites on Tourism in India ::

Magic India Tour | Agra Guide | An India Tours | India Tour

Do’s and
Dont’s

Make travel arrangements well in advance, especially if you are
traveling in the peak season (between October to March).



Drink bottled or mineral water only as water related diseases may
be acquired through unhygienic intake of water or food.



Do not encourage beggars. Be careful of small time pickpockets,
chain / purse-snatchers who take advantage of the crowds.



While shopping - it is better to check with a local friend or your
hotel staff for reliable places and approximate prices - to avoid
getting fleeced.



A special police force called Tourist Police is posted at all important
places frequented by tourists for providing assistance to tourists
to prevent them from being cheated, harassed, etc. This force is
headed by a Superintendent of Police, designated as Deputy Director
Tourism (Enforcement) and is stationed in the Tourist Reception
Centre.



As in any location, there are those who steal from others, so follow
the same rules of safety that you follow traveling anywhere else
with respect to using hotel lock boxes, and keeping travel documents
safe. When in public places, keep them in your hotel, or with you
all the time when moving about.

Don't carry a traditional wallet with you

Avoid keeping valuables in a purse, which can be easily snatched
off your shoulder.



Wash fruits before eating them.

Do carry sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat.



Always respect religious shrines and places of worship, Some places
require visitors to observe a decent dress code. Take care not to
violate any taboos in a mosque or a temple.



Change currency only from official moneychangers. Remember to retain
the currency Exchange receipts after each transaction. You will
need them for re-exchange on departure.



Besides the originals, a copy of your passport, travel visas, airline
tickets and travel documents. A list of any charge or credit cards
you are carrying. Remember to keep the copies separate from the
originals.



Consider purchasing special Travel insurance and medical evaluation
plan programmes.



The voltage used is 220 volts (the U.S. uses 120 volts). You can
purchase a converter at most hardware stores for appliances that
do not switch to 220V.

Current Spikes are common in india so use a spike buster



Tipping is a matter of personal discretion. Although bills normally
include a service charge, it is customary to tip in restaurants
and other places that cater to tourists.



ln case of complaints against taxi or auto rickshaw for overcharging
or cheating, note down the number of the vehicle and lodge a report
with Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic). you can get the Contact
Phone Nos in Telephone Directory.





Time Zone

India Time Standard Time is 5.5 hours (5 hours 30 minutes) ahead
of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+5.5).

:: Recommended Websites on Tourism in India ::

Magic India Tour | Agra Guide | An India Tours | India Tour

 

Powered by http://www.magicindiatour.com