Situated in the small town of Fatehpur Sikri, Buland Darwaza is a remarkable structure that offers a glimpse into the rich history of Mughals. ‘Buland Darwaza’ translates to ‘Gate of Victory’ as it was built by Akbar to commemorate his victory over Gujarat. It is an architectural marvel which stands as a symbol of power, wealth and conquest.
The architecture of Buland Darwaza is a beautiful blend of Indian, Central Asian and Persian styles. Standing tall at a height of 177 ft, it is also renowned as the highest gateway in the world. The structure is made of red sandstone and adorned with white marble and black stone work, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the bygone era. You can also pay close attention to the inscriptions, some of which are verses from the Quran. Additionally, you can explore the surrounding Fatehpur Sikri Fort complex which used to be the official residence of the royal family.
Highlights
• Marvel at the architectural brilliance of Buland Darwaza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Fatehpur Sikri.
• Dive into the history and learn about the power, grandeur, wealth and conquests of Emperor Akbar.
• Admire the intricate carvings, flower motifs, geometrical patterns and the exquisite use of white marble and black stone.
• Explore the Fatehpur Sikri Fort and its various sections like Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas and Jama Masjid.
• Visit the local bazaar to shop for souvenirs like handicraft items, hand-woven textiles, pottery and stone carvings.
How To Reach
By Car: Buland Darwaza is located at a distance of around 550 metres from the city centre of Fatehpur Sikri. It is situated in the heart of the city and can be reached in approximately 2-3 minutes via the Buland Darwaza Road. You can take your own private vehicle to reach the fort.
By Auto: For a more budget-friendly option, you can choose to travel by a local auto rickshaw. Autos are easily available from any corner of the city which will drop you off at Buland Darwaza.
By Bus: The nearest bus stop to Buland Darwaza is Fatehpur Sikri bus stop which is located at only 1.2 km from the attraction. The buses that depart from Fatehpur Sikri bus stop will drop you off right in front of Buland Darwaza. The average time taken by these local buses is 20 minutes.
By Foot: Since Buland Darwaza is right in the middle of the city of Fatehpur Sikri, you can also enjoy a short walk. It takes approximately 10 minutes via the Buland Darwaza road to reach the attraction by walking.
Best Time To Visit
Buland Darwaza is a popular tourist attraction which can be visited throughout the year.
Best Day of the Week: It is advisable to visit the gate on the weekdays if you wish to peacefully explore and avoid the weekend crowd.
Best Time of the Day: Plan your visit to the gate during early hours or late afternoon so that you can peacefully explore with fewer crowds.
Other Essential Information
- Wear light breathable clothes and comfortable walking shoes for an enjoyable experience.
- Wear modest clothes, covering your knees and shoulders as it is also a religious site.
- Apply sunscreen generously and carry a hat to protect yourself from the intense sun.
- Carry a water bottle and refill it from the water stations to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Visit either during early morning or late afternoon to click pictures under warm sunlight.
- Consider opting for a guided tour so that you can learn about the interesting facts about Buland Darwaza as well as Mughal history.