Fatehpur Sikri, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built by Mughal Emperor Akbar between 1571 and 1585 as the capital of his empire, the first planned city of the Mughals, blending Indian, Persian, and Islamic architectural styles. The city served as a capital for only a decade before being abandoned due to water scarcity. Key structures include the Buland Darwaza, the magnificent gateway to the Jama Masjid; the Panch Mahal, a five-storied pavilion; and the tomb of the Sufi saint Salim Chishti. The site features distinct royal and sacred complexes, with palaces, administrative buildings, and religious structures showcasing intricate lattice work and serpentine brackets. History and Purpose Founder: Emperor Akbar. Purpose: Established as the capital of the Mughal Empire. Significance: Renamed "Fatehpur Sikri" (City of Victory) after Akbar's successful campaign in Gujarat.
To reach Fatehpur Sikri from Bareilly, the most direct and efficient method is a combination of train and road travel, often via Agra. While driving directly can take around 3 to 4 hours, taking a train to Agra first provides a more relaxing journey before the final, shorter leg. From Bareilly, you can board a train to Agra Cantt (AGC) or Agra Fort (AF), both of which are well-connected and have frequent services. From Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is approximately 36 to 40 kilometers away, and the final stretch is easily covered by hiring a local taxi or using a ride-sharing service.