Agra: Monuments and Historic Buildings

Panch Mahal is located at Fatehpur Sikri and is at a distance of 45 kilometers from Agra and open throughout the year from 8 am to 7 pm. Panch Mahal is a five-storied structure and a living example of Indo-Islamic architectural combination.

Also, this structure is constructed as per the Buddhist architectural style. Basically, this structure was constructed for Emperor Akbar for entertainment and relaxation purpose.

It is said that Emperor Akbar used to play pachisi (checker board) at this place and the dancing girls were the live pieces. All the storey’s are pillared and each top storey is smaller than the below one.

The ground storey is supported by 84 columns while the uppermost domed floor has just 4 columns. The entire Mahal is very airy and successful in offering respite from the sweltering summer of Agra.

This Mahal is close to the Harem or Zeenana quarters and this is a confirmation of the fact that this place was used for pleasure. In the past, there were Jaalis (perforated stone or latticed screen) between the pillars as the royal women or ladies of the harem used this pavilion.

These jaalis offered cover for these women while they were enjoying the cool breeze or viewing the Sikri fortifications