Buland Darwaza

The gigantic gateway Akbar name Buland Darwaza or the Lofty Gate looms over the courtyard. It is the greatest Indian architectural monument of Akbar's entire reign. Whether approached from Agra or Bharatpur, the walled city of Fatehpur Sikri is dominated by this stupendous structure.

Buland Darwaza erected in 1602 AD to commemorate Akbar's victory over Deccan is the highest and grandest gateway in India and ranks among the biggest in the world. The Darwaza rises to a height of 40 metres and is topped by pillars and Chhatris. It is the most Islamic structure in Fatehpur Sikri and echoes early Mughal design with simple ornamentation, the carved verses from the Koran and soaring arches. On the outside a long flight of steps sweeps down the hill giving the gateway additional height.