Lower Haramsara, Fatehpur Sikri

Lower Haramsara is a royal place situated in Fatehpur Sikri. During the Mughal era, horses were kept, and hooks were made of stone (where the horses used to be tied with ropes). Some think this large colonnaded structure was used as a camel, elephant, or horse stable, and others believe that this place was probably intended for ‘housing the service maids’ of the royal harem. There are rings made of stone; some say they were used for elephants and horses. Some say they were used to partition the space by fixing curtains.
However, the original purpose of the Lower Haramsara is debatable. Some historians believe that It was used as a stable for animals, while others say that it was used to accommodate the maids of the royal harem.

Attraction

Fatehpur Sikri was built by the ‘Mughal Emperor Akbar.’ This structure is located exactly at the back of Principal Haram. There are multiple protected monuments which are maintained by the Archaeological Department. The Haramsara is now standing as the witness of the bygone era. History lovers or architectural enthusiasts always find it interesting. This is now a major tourist attraction, especially among history buffs and arts and architecture lovers.

History

The original purpose of the Lower Haramsara is debatable but it was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar (r.1556-1605) from 1571 to 1585. In the 16th century, inside the royal complex of Fatehpur Sikri, the Haramsara was situated. The whole of Fatehpur Sikri is popular for its truly unique architecture. However, the ‘Bala Haramsara’ means Lower Haramsara. It is also magnificent in this region. It is a symbol of Royalty or elitism.

Inside/Outside Views

Haramsara has a large walled premises and an entrance provision in the northern portion, which is damaged. The remaining three sides are a large veranda, which is rectangular and surrounds a ‘rectangular Courtyard.’ These verandahs are open and are facing the Courtyard. The whole structure is built with red sandstone that gives a stunning look. The roof is supported by rectangular stone pillars and lintels resting on plain projected stone capitals and eave brackets. Hanging stones are supported by eave brackets. The rear wall has large rectangular shelves, two in each section. And stone rings at floor ‘two-two’ in front of each pillar and one in the center. Historians think this premise was the maid’s living quarters as no stable needs shelves. These stone rings might be used for the partitioning curtains. According to the Archaeological Department’s findings, there were lavatory blocks for the sanitation of the staff, too, as these were probably in the service of the royal ladies. Friezes are plain, balustrades are carved with arches, and flowers, torches, and Greek Crosses are engraved in arches.

How to Reach

To reach Khwabgah in Agra, there are multiple modes of transportation available.

By Air: If you prefer air travel, you can fly to Agra’s Kheria Airport, which is approximately 40 kilometers away from Haramsara. The nearest international airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport. From the airport, visitors can opt for local transport like cab rentals in Agra or take a bus to Fatehpur Sikri.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is Fatehpur Sikri Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Local transport can reach the site because it is only a few kilometers away. From Agra Cantonment Railway Station, Haramsara is approximately 36 kilometers away.

By Road: For those who prefer to travel by road, there are good road connections to Fatehpur Sikri from all the major cities in India. Visitors can take a road trip to the site. The distance from Delhi to Fatehpur Sikri is nearly 210 km, and it takes around 4 hours to reach the site by road. People from neighboring cities can also travel by road. Agra’s central bus stand is approximately 40 kilometers away from Khwabgah.

Tips for Travellers

• If you are visiting Fatehpur Sikri for the first time, we suggest you explore the place. You can visit the Buland Darwaza Gate, the Jama Masjid Mosque, the marble ‘Tomb of Salim Chishti,’ the ‘Diwan-E-Khas’ and ‘Diwan E Aam hall rooms, the ‘Jodha Bai’s Palace’ (a mix of Hindu and Mughal styles), the ‘5-story Panch’, Birbal Bhavan, ‘Caravan Serai,’ and many more.

• Try to go early in the morning as it will be less crowded and quieter.
• Winters are considered the best season to visit Fatehpur Sikri. This season stretches from ‘November to March’ and is pleasant and cool. Temperatures range from 24°C in the day to 5°C at night, and sometimes they get even chillier.