Panch Mahal

Panch Mahal is a five-storey open pavilion palace located within the Fatehpur Sikri palace complex in Agra District, Uttar Pradesh. Built by Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fatehpur Sikri. The structure is notable for its diminishing storeys, 176 intricately carved columns, and Indo-Islamic architectural style with influences from Hindu and Jain traditions.

Visitors can expect an open, pillared five-storey pavilion with no walls, supported by 176 columns with varied carvings. Each storey is smaller than the one below, creating a pyramidal form. The ground floor has 84 columns, with upper floors progressively fewer. Visitors can walk through the colonnaded halls, climb staircases to upper levels, view carved brackets and screens, and enjoy panoramic views of the Fatehpur Sikri complex and surrounding area from the top pavilion.

Built during 1571-1573 by Mughal Emperor Akbar as part of his imperial capital at Fatehpur Sikri. The five-storey pleasure palace was used by the royal women and as a recreational pavilion. It reflects Akbar's architectural vision and was abandoned as capital after about 14 years due to water scarcity. The complex was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.

Represents the zenith of Mughal architecture under Akbar, showcasing synthesis of Persian, Islamic, Hindu and Jain styles. As part of Fatehpur Sikri, it is a major cultural landmark illustrating Mughal court life and is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India as a monument of national importance.