The magnificent Panch Mahal is located in Fatehpur Sikri, Agra. The Panch Mahal is an elaborate and pillared five-story building which was built by King Akbar in the memory of the great Sufi saint Salim Chisti. The palace was used to relax and also for entertainment. Built on an open sided theme, each floor of this palace is smaller than the lower floor and each floor stands on asymmetrical pillars.
This palace was specially built for the emperor's queens and princesses. A special screen was installed for women watching the show from inside. This palace is located near Anoop Talao, which is a beautiful pond of its kind.
It was constructed in such a way that the air keeps coming in from five sides. That is why it is named Panch Mahal. Its design is very similar to that of Zenana Quarter (Harem). It is one of the most significant monuments in Fatehpur Sikri. It has a unique form of architecture. The pillars are unevenly arranged from the basement, the ground floor has 84 columns and first floor have 54 columns. The second floor have 20 columns and third story have 12 column while the last floor have just 4 columns to support the Chhatri. These columns, which originally had netted screens over them, and covered the entire structure. The screens also provided cover to the queen and princess who enjoyed the calm winds flowing from the top of the mountain. The pavilion offers a magnificent view of the fort which is situated on its left. These columns are elegantly carved pillars with unique designs.
Panch Mahal, Agra Timings: 9:00A.M – 6:00 P.M
Panch Mahal, Agra Entry Fees: Nil
