The Buland Darwaza, also known as the Gate of Magnificence, serves as the primary entrance to Fatehpur Sikri’s Jama Masjid complex. Emperor Akbar erected this gateway in 1576 AD to mark his victory over Gujarat. This gate is made of red and buff sandstone and has black and white marble. This 15-story gateway, standing 54 metres tall, serves as the entryway to the city of Fatehpur Sikri. The most attractive aspect of this entrance is that the pillars and arches are etched with the Holy Quran and Persian calligraphy.
About Fatehpur Sikri Where Buland Darwaza Is Located
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Fatehpur Sikri, a part of the Agra region, was formerly the thriving capital of Mughal Emperor Akbar until 1585 when it was abandoned due to its proximity to the Rajputana neighbourhood and a lack of water. The capital was relocated to Agra, and the town remained abandoned for most of its history. Fatehpur Sikri was once known as Fatahabad, which comes from the Persian term Fatah, meaning triumph. Akbar’s objective in establishing the city was to honour the Sufi saint Salim Chishti, and the entire palace complex is centred on his grave. Today, the city is one of India’s best-surviving examples of Mughal architecture.
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History of Buland Darwaza
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Babur created the Mughal Empire in the early 16th century, and it was India’s dominating dynasty. They governed the nation for two centuries. They also revolutionised politics. Many changes were made in the cultural lives of people and other parts of life. He also made significant advances to military science and introduced kebabs into Indian cuisine. Babur, a military leader, overcame the then-ruler of Delhi, Ibrahim Lodhi, and established the empire. However, Akbar, Babur’s grandson and the dynasty’s third monarch, led the Mughal Empire into its golden age. Later, his (Akbar’s) grandson led the empire to its pinnacle.
During the reign of Akbar, the empire expanded and acquired numerous neighbouring kingdoms, notably Gujarat and Bengal. To celebrate his triumph over these areas, Akbar constructed the towering Buland Darwaza. The 53.63-meter (176-foot)-high gateway is one of the principal entrances to Fatehpur Sikri’s spectacular Jama Masjid. The main entryway is adorned with Quranic phrases etched in beautiful Naskh calligraphy, which is extremely pleasing to the sight. Despite popular belief, Buland Darwaza was never part of Fatehpur Sikri’s original plan. Akbar created the arching entrance following his victory against the Khandesh kings in Gujarat.
Architecture Of Buland Darwaza
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Buland Darwaza, constructed of red and buff sandstone, blends aspects of Persian, Indian, and Central Asian architectural traditions. It is adorned with white and black marble panels and measures 54 metres tall. Buland Darwaza serves as the southern gateway of Fatehpur Sikri. It is erected on a high platform and is reached via a flight of 42 steps, which adds to its height. It is flanked by three-story-high arches with huge free-standing galleries (known as chhatris). It also features terrace edge gallery booths on the top, which provide a stunning perspective of the surrounding environment. Small turrets line the corners of the entryway.
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Timings And Entry Fees
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Fatehpur Sikri’s Buland Darwaza is open year-round for visitors. It is open every day of the week, from dawn to dusk. There is no additional admission charge for Buland Darwaza. The Fatehpur Sikri Fort offers an admission fee of ₹50 per person for visitors from India, SAARC, and BIMSTEC. Foreign nationals pay a ₹610 admission charge. There is no requirement for a ticket for children under the age of 15.
Best Time To Visit
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Although you may visit Buland Darwaza Agra at any time, the finest time is during the winter (November-February). The weather is ideal for tourist trips these days. Plan your visit during the morning or late afternoon to allow for a more comfortable exploration.
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Time To Explore Buland Darwaza
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You may spend about 30-45 minutes in Buland Darwaza. However, you must allow at least 2-3 hours to visit. This beautiful entrance is located at Fatehpur Sikri Fort, a massive complex of historical structures with various halls and palaces dispersed across a broad region.
Some Stunning Facts About Buland Darwaza
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A few of the interesting facts about Buland Darwaza (Gate of Victory):
1. The doorway is one of the world’s highest. It is located at a distance 54 metres from the ground.
2. The architecture of the building is a mix of Indian style and Persian styles.
3. The Buland Darwaza opens up to the marble-clad Jama Masjid and Salim Chisti’s. The interior work and the balconies were influenced by Indian architectural features.
4. The central face of the red sandstone doorway reflects Akbar’s religious tolerance.
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Things You Can Do At Buland Darwaza
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1. Admiring the architecture – The Buland Darwaza at Fatehpur Sikri is well-known for its architectural splendour. As you approach the towering doorway, you’ll be impressed by its clever design and construction. Visit this huge entry gate to study the intricate sculptures and imagine how they were created centuries ago.
2. Examining the inscriptions – Parts of the gateway are adorned with aesthetic Persian inscriptions that demonstrate Akbar’s belief in religious peace. An inscription engraved on the main doorway recounts Jesus’ counsel to his disciples. Around the summit of Buland Darwaza, the verses in the holy script of the Quran have also been carved in Naskh script
3. Learning Mughal history – With a knowledgeable and well-read guide, you may undoubtedly delve into the historical relevance and importance of Buland Darwaza. They will make you understand and recount the history and mythology linked with this location. You could also learn something new about Mughal kings’ lives and how they used to spend their time.
4. Taking beautiful images – The magnificent Buland Darwaza is an ideal location for photographers. It offers much to photograph, including ornate carvings, archways, and stunning gallery vistas. It also makes a great backdrop for taking photos of people.
5. Exploring the fort complex –The adjacent Fathepur Sikri complex offers several interesting sites to see. It features several halls, the most popular ones being Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas. There is also a palace for the Royal Family. You may also visit Jama Masjid and pay your respects at Salim Chishti’s Tomb.
6. Shopping for souvenirs – While at Fatehpur Sikri, visit the local bazaars. Several shops provide souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Indian clothes. Jewellery, ceramics, and tiny paintings are among the options to consider. Attars (perfume oils) from traditional aromatic components are highly recommended.
How To Reach Buland Darwaza In Fatehpur Sikri?
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The distance from Agra to Buland Darwaza gate is 36 km. It is around 35 km from both the Idgah bus station and the Agra Cantt railway station. The nearest railway station to the fort is Fatehpur Sikri, which is just around 3 km away. The distance from Agra Airport is 34 km. However, the nearest international airport is in Delhi (215 km distant). And here are the many methods to approach Buland Darwaza in Fatehpur Sikri:
By train – You may go from Agra to Fatehpur Sikri. It’s a small station three km from Buland Darwaza. From the station, you may take an auto-rickshaw to the fort complex.
By bus – Buses are also accessible to Fatehpur Sikri. The bus stop is around 3 km distant from the fort. You may take an auto-rickshaw from the bus stop.
By auto/e-rickshaw – You can also take an auto-rickshaw directly from Agra to Fatehpur Sikri Buland Darwaza. They’re available everywhere in Agra.
By cab/taxi – The most convenient way to get from Agra to Fatehpur Sikri is by cab or taxi. You may easily explore Buland Darwza, the fort complex, and other local locations by renting a car from one of Agra’s best rental firms.
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The Buland Darwaza (Gate of Victory) is an important section of Fatehpur Sikri. However, that is not all. In reality, the citadel is filled with an opulent monument that reveals the grand artistic gestures of the Mughal’s. Regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fatehpur Sikri is an important tourist attraction. The Buland Darwaza is a treasure of Agra’s rich cultural heritage, where history, spirituality, and architectural beauty meet together to create an unforgettable experience. Whether a traveller is searching for peace and spirituality or a traveller searching for a beautiful place to visit, this place will cater to both your needs. So plan a trip to Agra and prepare prepare to go to a place where you might forget about your usual busy day and immerse yourself where every stone silently tells tales of a past era, and where the connection between the human and the divine is made.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Buland Darwaza
What are the must-visit attractions to visit in Fatehpur Sikri apart from Buland Darwaja?
Some of the famous places to visit in Fatehpur Sikri are Jodha Bai Palace, Jama Masjid, Buland Darwaza and Panch Mahal.
What is the distance between Agra and Buland Darwaja in Fatehpur Sikri?
Agra is located at a distance of 36.2 km from Fatehpur Sikri and it takes around 43 minutes to reach.
Which are some of the best places to visit near Buland Darwaja,Fatehpur Sikri?
Delhi, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Noida, Agra, Jaipur, Gwalior, Jhajjar, Aligarh, etc. are some of the top places to visit near Fatehpur Sikri.
When is the best time to visit Buland Darwaja, Fatehpur Sikri?
The months between October to March are touted as the best months to witness the glory of Fatehpur Sikri.
What are the most popular things to do in Agra apart from visiting Buland Darwaza?
There are a lot of places in Agra that a tourist can explore and also there are many popular activities that the traveller can indulge in. These things to do include: 1. Visit the the spot Mehtab Bagh. 2. Get soaked in the beauty of the Taj Mahal. 3. Explore the wonder of Jahangir Mahal. 4. Experience the spectacular dance show called, Kalakriti.
Which part of the year is ideal to visit Buland Darwaja?
It is ideal to visit Agra during the months of October to December. Being in the hot zone of the country, summers between June to August are extremely hot.
Are tourist guides available at the Taj Mahal and other important monuments in and around Agra?
Guides are available in plenty at all the tourist places in Agra. Guides can be hired right from the railway station or bus stand for the entire package or they can also be availed at the monument site itself.
What kind of cuisine is best in Agra?
North Indian and typical Punjabi food are abundantly available here. Street food is a favourite of one and all. Sweets of different varieties, particularly the famed Petha, are very much popular in Agra which every tourist buys.
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