MultiDayTourFinder

Fatehpur Sikri

Agra · UNESCO World Heritage

Fatehpur Sikri was built by the emperor Akbar in the 1570s as his new capital, and abandoned only a few years later. Its palaces, courtyards and great mosque survive almost intact, giving a rare picture of a Mughal royal city.

It lies about 40 kilometres west of Agra, right on the road to Jaipur, so many Golden Triangle tours stop here for a couple of hours on the drive between the two cities.

What to see

  • The royal palaces. The ticketed area includes the Diwan-i-Khas with its carved central pillar, the five storey Panch Mahal and the palace of Akbar's wife Jodha Bai.
  • Jama Masjid. One of the largest mosques in India, entered through the towering Buland Darwaza gate.
  • Tomb of Salim Chishti. A white marble shrine in the mosque courtyard, where visitors tie threads on the screens when making a wish.

Tips for your visit

  • The mosque is a working place of worship. Remove your shoes and cover your shoulders and legs.
  • Expect persistent sellers and unofficial guides around the mosque. A tour guide makes the visit much calmer.
  • Visit on the way from Agra to Jaipur rather than as a separate trip from Agra.

Multi-day tours that visit Fatehpur Sikri

Every tour here includes Fatehpur Sikri in its itinerary. Best rated first.

Cultural tours in India →

Combine it with

Taj Mahal

UNESCO

The white marble tomb Shah Jahan built for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, and the reason almost every first trip to India passes through Agra.

Visitor guide →

Agra Fort

UNESCO

The red sandstone fortress of the Mughal emperors, with marble palaces inside and views along the river to the Taj Mahal.

Visitor guide →

Amber Fort

UNESCO

A honey coloured hilltop palace above Maota Lake outside Jaipur, with mirrored halls and long views over the old ramparts.

Visitor guide →

Rather have a trip to India made just for you?

Answer a few quick questions and a local specialist will send you a free, no-obligation itinerary and price.

Plan my trip

Fatehpur Sikri: questions

Is Fatehpur Sikri worth visiting?

Yes. It is one of the best preserved Mughal cities anywhere, and because it sits on the road from Agra to Jaipur it adds only a couple of hours to the journey.

Why was Fatehpur Sikri abandoned?

Akbar moved his court away after only around fourteen years. Water shortages and the political needs of the empire are usually given as the reasons.

How long do I need at Fatehpur Sikri?

About two hours covers the palaces and the mosque at a comfortable pace.

← More things to see in India