Attractions in Fatehpur Sikri

3 places to see, with what each one is and how long it takes.

Buland Darwaza

Attraction

One of the tallest gateways in the world, marking the entrance to the Jama Masjid.

Diwan-i-Khas Central Pillar

Attraction

The extraordinary hall of private audience featuring a central stone pillar wrapped in intricate lotus-shaped carved brackets.

Elsewhere in Uttar Pradesh

Not in Fatehpur Sikri — these are in other towns across the state.

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience

Varanasi

The evening aarti is performed by priests on raised platforms with tiered brass lamps, every day at dusk. It is also the most crowded half hour in Varanasi, and half the audience watches from boats. If you want the ghat rather than the show, come at six in the morning.

Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir

Experience

Ayodhya

Opened in January 2024 in pink Rajasthani sandstone, Nagara style, three storeys, with work still finishing around it. Phones and bags are not allowed in, so use the lockers before you join the queue.

Taj Mahal

Attraction

Agra

The white-marble mausoleum built by Shah Jahan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Wonder of the World.

Main Tomb Chamber

Attraction

Taj Mahal (Agra)

The high-ceilinged marble chamber housing the cenotaphs of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan, enclosed by a finely carved lattice screen.

Dhamek Stupa

Attraction

Sarnath

A massive 5th-century stupa marking the site of the Buddha's first sermon.

Bara Imambara

Attraction

Lucknow

A grand 18th-century monument famous for its central hall and the Bhulbhulaiya maze.

Sarnath Archaeological Museum

Attraction

Sarnath

India's oldest site museum gallery housing the original 3rd-century BCE Ashokan Lion Capital and masterfully carved sandstone Buddha statues.

Agra Fort

Attraction

Agra

A massive red-sandstone Mughal fort and UNESCO site overlooking the Yamuna.

Bankey Bihari Temple

Experience

Mathura & Vrindavan

The curtain is drawn across the deity every minute or two rather than left open — the tradition holds that an unbroken gaze is too much to bear. There are no bells here either. Very crowded, and the Mangala aarti happens only once a year.