About Buland Darwaza :
Buland Darwaza popularly known as the ‘Gate of Magnificence’ was built by the Great Mughal Emperor Akbar to commemorate his victory over Gujrat. He built it in the sixteenth century as a gateway to his newly built city of Fatehpur Sikri. Situated on the hilltop it is one of the largest gateways in the world. It is the greatest Indian architecture monument of the entire Akbar’s regin. Buland Darwaza is an outstanding example of the Mughal architecture.
The semi octagonal structure of Buland Darwaza is forty meters high and is approached by 42 steps. It is 40.84 m high and was built on a platform that was 13.52 m high. On the top it is dominted by the magnificent pillars and chhatris. The grand recessed central arch forms the most attractive part of the monument. The arch resembles the pattern of the Jami Masjid. Calligraphic inscriptions from the Quran makes this stupendous monument a truly impressive sight. It is built in red sandstone and is beautifully outlayered by the white and black marble. The inscription throws light on the Akbars religious broad mind.
General Information about Buland Darwaza :
Location: Fatehpur Sikri
State: Uttar Pradesh
Capital: Lucknow
Language: Hindi, English
Temperature: Max 42˚C, Min 27˚C (summer), Max 26˚C, Min 14˚C (winter)
Best Season: October to February
Must do and see :
Nature walk : Buland Darwaza commands a landscapes for miles. Take a nature walk in and around this ‘Lofty gateway’ admiring its architectural beauty. You can also hire hindi or english speaking guides, who gives you the thorough knowledge of the monument.
Enjoy photography : Enjoy taking pictures of the mighty Buland Darwaza in the afternoon. Spot the visitors making documentaries on this historical monument.
Shopping :
You can spend time exploring for souvenirs from the vendors selling items such as marble tabletops, jewellery boxes set with precious and semi-precious stones, leather shoes and purses, brass handicrafts and Petha (the famous sweet of Agra).
Arts and crafts :
While at this place you get the opportunity to learn about the history and making of the arts and crafts items, which prevailed in the city from many centuries. Enchant with the skilled artisans and craftsmen busy in their work and know about their daily routine of work and hardship.
How to Reach Buland Darwaza :
By Air:
Kheria airport in Agra is the nearest airport from Fatehpur Sikri. Domestic flights are available to Agra from important places of India. From the airport, you have to reach Fatehpur Sikri via road route.
By Train:
Nearest major railway station is located in Agra. Agra railway is served by large number of express trains from important places of the country. Taj Express, Shatabdi express and several other trains are available from Delhi to Agra. Trains are available at regular intervals between Agra and Fatehpur Sikri.
By Bus:
UPSTDC, ITDC and other private operators arrange conducted tours to Fatehpur Sikri, but the tour buses stop only for an hour. If you want to spend longer time at Fatehpur Sikri it is better you take a regular bus from the Idgah Bus Stand.