Mariam-uz-zamani Palace, Fatehpur Sikri

Mariam-Uz-Zamani Palace is the beautiful mausoleum that is dedicated to the Rajput Princess Jodha Bai who was married to the Mughal Emperor Akbar. The tomb or the palace was constructed by Mughal Emperor Jahangir in the memory of his mother Jodha Bai, who was also known by her other name Marium Uz-Zamani. The queen is also known by other names such as Hira Kunwari, Harka Bai, Heer Kunwari, etc. Situated within the main complex of Fatehpur Sikri, the Marium –Uz-Zamani palace is a stunning Mughal themed palace which is located in Sikandra-the outskirts of Agra, Uttar Pradesh. The structure is an architectural grandeur that manifests the elements of Mandu, Gwalior and the magnificent designs of traditional Islamic style. While visiting Fatehpur Sikri, one can visit this stunning palace.

History Of Mariam-Uz-Zamani Palace:

The first wife of Mughal Emperor Akbar, the Rajput queen, Rani Jodha Bai came to be named Marium –Uz-Zamani after she became the mother of Jahangir. The Rani was the longest-serving Hindu empress in the Mughal reign. The marriage of Jodha Bai and Akbar was one of the significant chapters in the history of India as it epitomized Emperor Akbar’s respect for other religions in India.

The palace was located near Akbar's Tomb as per the last wish of Jodha Bai. The structure was originally a baradari (Pavillion) built during the reign of Sikander Lodi in AD 1495. It was later reconstructed into Mughal's tomb by Jahangir in Mughal style. Mariam-Uz-Zamani Palace was the seat of power during the reign of both Emperor Akbar and his son Jahangir. A lot of money was spent and the best architectures and workers were appointed to construct this magnificent palace.

Architecture Of Mariam-Uz-Zamani Palace:

This brilliantly built palace in Fatehpur Sikri is an excellent combination of size and aesthetics. The incredible carvings and impressive floral motifs catch the attention of visitors immediately. The interior and exterior of this palace adorned with floral and geometrical finishes and designs. Furthermore, the beautiful gardens surrounding the palace add a charm to the beauty & magnificence of the structure. As Mariam-Uz-Zamani (Jodha Bai) was a Hindu queen and used to worship Lord Krishna, the place is embellished with various paintings of Lord Krishna.

One can see an impressive gateway in the eastern side of the palace, followed by various guard rooms having triangular ceilings. Visitors can see some of the Hindu motifs during their visit to this palace such as elephants, srivatsa mark, parrots, ghant mala, swans, etc. The building also comprises of Chhaparkhats with eight pillars, semicircular domes, and chhatris that attract the visitors the most.

Interesting Facts About Mariam-Uz-Zamani Palace:

• This palace is also known as Jodha Bai Palace.

• One can see the Kitchen of Queen Jodha Bai inside the palace.

• This palace was the biggest and most relevant part of the Imperial Harem.

• It is said that Jodha Bai was an intelligent businesswoman, who was involved in performing international trade of spices and silk in Mariam-Uz-Zamani Palace.

Best Time To Visit Mariam-Uz-Zamani Palace:

Mariam-Uz-Zamani Palace in Fatehpur Sikri is one of the top attractions to visit near Agra. During the summer season, the entire region experiences extreme heat with a high temperature i.e. between 40 to 45 degrees Celsius. The heat can be annoying for many people, but if the heat does not bother you much, you can visit the palace during this period. During the winter season, the weather is pleasant and calm here, with an average temperature of about 15 degrees Celsius. So, this period is the best time for sightseeing and exploration in the region.

How To Reach Here:

Mariam-Uz-Zamani Palace is located at a distance of about 11 km from the Agra Cantonment Railway Station. By getting down at this station, visitors can hire taxis, cabs or auto-rickshaws to reach the palace. One can even get down at other railway stations in Agra such as Agra Fort Railway Station, Raja ki Mandi, Agra City, and Idgah Railway Station and reach the palace by taking private vehicles. One can also board daily buses ply between major cities of the nation to Agra and reach the Mariam-Uz-Zamani Palace by hiring private vehicles from the bus terminals. There are two bus terminals in Agra, from where one can hire taxis and cabs- Idgah Bus Stand and ISBT.

Additional Information For Visitors:

The Mariam-Uz-Zamani Palace remains open every day in a week from morning 6 am to evening 6 pm. Visitors need not pay any extra entry fee for visiting this palace as it lies within the Fatehpur Sikri complex. The entry fee required for Indian citizens and citizens of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries to enter the Fatehpur Sikri complex is Rs 35 and the entry fee required for international tourists is Rs 550. The entry fee for children who are under 15 years of age is nil.

Nearby Attractions:

While visiting the Mariam-Uz-Zamani Palace, visitors can explore some of the other places of interest in and around the region such as Tomb of Akbar the Great, Badshahi Darwaza, Taj Mahal, Birbal's Palace, Nubat Khana, Ibadat Khana, Buland Darwaza and many more.