Buland Darwaza Fatehpur Sikri Agra (Timings, History, Entry Fee, Images, Built by & Information)

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Buland Darwaza (also known as “Gate of Victory”) is a gateway known for its magnificence and architectural beauty. It’s a maze of intricate carvings, delicate latticework and complex geometrical patterns. And it stands as a symbol of power, authority and conquest.

The gate stands tall at an impressive height of 54 meters. It was built by the Mughal emperor Akbar to commemorate his conquest of Gujarat.

Fatehpur Sikri Buland Darwaza is constructed entirely of red sandstone. Its lofty arches and intricate craftsmanship leave visitors in awe of its grandeur. The inscriptions are a testament to Akbar’s religious harmony and tolerance.

Visiting Buland Darwaza is like taking a step back in time. To feel the sheer scale and beauty of the gateway, you must see it. But this grand entrance gate isn’t only a magnificent structure. It holds significant historical and cultural importance, too.

Its galleries also offer a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.

Where is Buland Darwaza in Fatehpur Sikri?

Buland Darwaza is a part of Fatehpur Sikri Fort. It is about 36 km from Agra. It’s said to be the first planned city of the Mughals. The rulers built several monuments in this walled city – for administrative, residential and religious purposes.

History of Buland Darwaza

The story of Buland Darwaza goes back to the 16th century. Akbar returned to Fatehpur Sikri in 1573 after his momentous victory over Gujarat. And in 1575, to commemorate that victory in Gujarat, this magnificent gateway was built.

The gateway today has become an iconic symbol of Mughal-era architecture. It showcases the power and grandeur of the empire.

Architecture of Buland Darwaza

Made of red and buff sandstone, Buland Darwaza combines the elements of Persian, Indian and Central Asian architectural styles. It’s decorated by white and black marble panels and stands up to a height of 54 meters.

Buland Darwaza acts as the southern entrance of Fatehpur Sikri. It’s built on a high platform, accessible by a flight of 42 steps, giving it an additional height.

It’s flanked by three-storey high arches with large free-standing galleries (called chhatris). It also has terrace edge gallery kiosks on the roof, offering a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape. Small turrets are on the corners of the gateway.

Things to do at Agra Buland Darwaza

1. Marvelling at the architecture – Buland Darwaza Fatehpur Sikri is best known for its architectural grandeur. As you approach the towering gateway, you’ll be awed by its thoughtful design and structure. Visit this grand entrance gate to admire the fine carvings and imagine how they have been done centuries ago.

2. Checking out the inscriptions – Parts of the gateway are also decorated with beautiful Persian inscriptions, showing Akbar’s belief in religious harmony. An inscription etched on the main gateway explains the advice Jesus gave to his followers. Verses from the Quran have also been carved in the Naskh script along the top of Buland Darwaza.

3. Learning Mughal history – With a knowledgeable guide, you can go deep into the historical significance and importance of Buland Darwaza. They will narrate the history and the legends associated with this place. And you might also get some interesting insights into the life of the Mughal rulers.

4. Clicking breathtaking photographs – The majestic Buland Darwaza is a photographer’s delight. It has so much to capture – intricate carvings, towering arche and picturesque views from the galleries. It also provides an excellent backdrop for clicking pictures of others.

5. Exploring the fort complex – The surrounding Fathepur Sikri complex also has several places to explore. It has different halls like Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas, and palaces for the royal family. You can also visit Jama Masjid and pay homage at Salim Chishti's Tomb.

6. Shopping for souvenirs – While you’re in Fatehpur Sikri, also check out the local bazaars. You’ll find several shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts and traditional Indian attire. Jewellery, ceramic items and miniature paintings are a few other things to consider. Then, attars (perfume oils) made from traditional aromatic ingredients are also a must-buy.

Buland Darwaza Timings and Entry Fees

You can visit Buland Darwaza of Fatehpur Sikri throughout the year. It’s open every day of the week, from sunrise to sunset.

You don’t have to pay a separate entrance fee for Buland Darwaza. It’s part of the Fatehpur Sikri Fort, the ticket price of which is ₹50 per person for Indian, SAARC and BIMSTEC country visitors. For other foreign nationals, the entry fee is ₹610. No ticket is needed for kids below 15 years.

Best time to visit Buland Darwaza

Although you can visit Buland Darwaza Agra any time, the best time is during winter (from November to February. The weather is the most suitable for tourist visits during these days. Plan your visit in the morning or late afternoon hours to explore it comfortably.

Time to explore Buland Darwaza

You can spend around 30-45 minutes at Buland Darwaza. However, you must have at least 2-3 hours for the visit. This majestic gateway is in Fatehpur Sikri Fort. And it’s a vast complex of historical structures, with several halls and palaces, spread across a large area.

How to reach Buland Darwaza in Fatehpur Sikri?

The distance from Agra to Buland Darwaza gate is 36 km. It’s about 35 km from Idgah bus stand as well as Agra Cantt railway station. A small Fatehpur Sikri railway station is the nearest to the fort, only about 3 km away. From Agra airport, the distance is 34 km. But the nearest international airport is in Delhi (215 km away).

And here are the different ways to reach Buland Darwaza at Fatehpur Sikri –

By train – You can take a train from Agra to Fatehpur Sikri. It’s a small station 3 km away from Buland Darwaza. From the station, you’ll find auto-rickshaws for the fort complex.

By bus – Buses are also available for Fatehpur Sikri. The bus stand is about 3 km away from the fort. You can take auto-rickshaws from the bus stand.

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 – A cab or taxi, however, is the most comfortable way to go to Fatehpur Sikri from Agra. You can book one from the top car rental companies in Agra and visit Buland Darwaza, along with the fort complex and other nearby places, easily.

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Location Map for Buland Darwaza Agra