Buland Darwaza
54 metres high, 42 steps up, built after Akbar’s Gujarat victory. Stand at the top and feel like the king of the world. The echo inside is insane.
Palces to visit in Fatehpur Sikri
Jama Masjid
One of India’s largest mosques. Calm white courtyard, Sufi saint’s tomb covered in cloth and wishes. Shoes off, head covered, peace guaranteed.
Salim Chishti’s Tomb
Pure white marble, lattice screens so fine they look like lace. Tie a thread, make a wish-every childless couple in India has done it at least once.
Diwan-i-Khas
The tiny room with the massive stone pillar where Akbar sat and debated religion with scholars of every faith. Looks simple, blows your mind.
Panch Mahal
Five-storey open pavilion that gets smaller as it goes up. Wind blows through every level-Akbar’s summer cooling system. Feels like an ancient skyscraper.
Jodha Bai’s Palace
Biggest residential palace, mix of Hindu and Muslim styles. Carved brackets, blue tiles, massive courtyard. You can almost hear the anklets.