Did you know that Qutub Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world? Qutub Minar is more than just a tower. It is a symbol of Delhi’s rich and diverse history. It is one of the most visited monuments in India and a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture.
Qutub Minar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Mehrauli, Delhi. It is part of the Qutub complex, which houses many other historical and cultural monuments. In this article, we will explore the history, architecture, attractions, and tips for visiting Qutub Minar. We will also compare it with some other famous towers around the world.
History of Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar was built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate, in 1199 CE. He started the construction of the tower to commemorate his victory over the last Hindu kingdom in Delhi. The tower was later completed by his successors Iltutmish and Firoz Shah Tughlaq, who added more storeys and balconies to it.
Qutub Minar stands at 72.5 meters (237 feet) high and has a base diameter of 14.3 meters (47 feet). It has five storeys and 379 steps leading to the top. The tower has various inscriptions in Arabic and Persian that record its history and builders.
Qutub Minar has witnessed many events and changes in Delhi’s history. It has survived several earthquakes, lightning strikes, invasions, and restorations. It has also inspired many legends and stories, such as the one that says that if you can encircle the iron pillar in the complex with your arms while standing with your back to it, your wish will come true.
Qutub Minar has also been a subject of some theories and controversies. Some historians believe that Qutub Minar was built as a minaret for the nearby Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque, while others argue that it was a victory tower or a sundial. Some scholars also suggest that Qutub Minar was inspired by the Minaret of Jam in Afghanistan or the Tower of Pisa in Italy.
Architecture of Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar has a tapering cylindrical shape that narrows from the bottom to the top. It is made of red sandstone and marble and has different architectural styles on each storey. The first three storeys have fluted columns and pointed arches that reflect the Islamic influence, while the fourth and fifth storeys have plain walls and circular motifs that show the Hindu influence.
Qutub Minar’s architecture represents a fusion of cultures and religions that shaped Delhi’s history. It also showcases the artistic and technical skills of its builders and craftsmen. The tower has intricate carvings and patterns that depict floral designs, geometric shapes, and Quranic verses. The tower also has a slight tilt of 25 inches that is caused by the soil conditions and earthquakes over the years.
Qutub Minar’s architecture is unique and impressive, but it is not the only tower of its kind in the world. There are many other towers that have similar or different features and significance. For example, here are some of them:
Eiffel Tower: This is a wrought iron lattice tower that is located in Paris, France. It was built by Gustave Eiffel in 1889 for the World’s Fair. It is 324 meters (1,063 feet) high and has three levels for visitors. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world and a symbol of romance.
Leaning Tower of Pisa: This is a freestanding bell tower that is located in Pisa, Italy. It was built between the 12th and 14th centuries as part of the cathedral complex. It is 55.86 meters (183.27 feet) high and has eight floors. It is famous for its unintended tilt of 3.97 degrees that is caused by the unstable foundation.
Burj Khalifa: This is a skyscraper that is located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It was built by Emaar Properties in 2010 as part of a mixed-use development project. It is 828 meters (2,717 feet) high and has 163 floors. It is the tallest building in the world and a symbol of innovation.
Also check out: Reflection of Rich Culture & Heritage: The Qutub Minar
Best Places To Stay Near Qutub Minar
Here are some of the best places to stay near Qutub Minar that you can check out:
Sheraton New Delhi Hotel:
This is a 5-star hotel that is located 7.9 km from Qutub Minar. It offers spacious and elegant rooms with modern amenities and city views. It also has a fitness center, a spa, an outdoor pool, and three restaurants.
To book a stay at this property click here.
JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity:
This is another 5-star hotel that is located 8.5 km from Qutub Minar. It offers luxurious and stylish rooms with air conditioning, minibars, and flat-screen TVs. It also has a 24-hour fitness center, a spa, an outdoor pool, and six dining options.
To book a stay at this property click here.
Udman Hotels and Resorts by Ferns N Petals:
This is a 4-star resort that is located 7 km from Qutub Minar. It offers cozy and comfortable rooms with garden views and free wifi. It also has a banquet hall, a terrace, a lawn, and a restaurant.
To book a stay at this property click here.
Attractions of Qutub Minar
The Qutub complex is a sprawling area that houses many historical and cultural monuments. Some of the most notable ones are:
Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque:
This is one of the oldest and largest mosques in India, built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1193 CE. It was constructed using the materials from 27 Hindu and Jain temples that were demolished by the invaders. The mosque has a large courtyard, a prayer hall, and several columns and arches that display Hindu and Islamic motifs.
Alai Darwaza:
This is a magnificent gateway that was built by Alauddin Khilji in 1311 CE. It marks the entrance to the Qutub complex and showcases the Turkish style of architecture. It has a domed roof, a pointed arch, and intricate carvings and inscriptions.
Iron Pillar:
This is a 7-meter (23 feet) high iron column that stands in the courtyard of the mosque. It dates back to the 4th century CE and is attributed to Chandragupta II, a Gupta emperor. It is famous for its rust-resistant quality and its Sanskrit inscription that praises Vishnu, a Hindu god.
Alai Minar:
This is an unfinished tower that was intended to be twice as high as Qutub Minar. It was started by Alauddin Khilji in 1311 CE but was abandoned after his death in 1316 CE. Only the base of the tower remains, which is 24.5 meters (80 feet) in diameter.
Tomb of Adham Khan:
This is a octagonal tomb that was built by Akbar, a Mughal emperor, in 1561 CE. It is dedicated to Adham Khan, a general and a foster brother of Akbar, who was killed by him for murdering another general. The tomb has a red sandstone exterior and a white marble interior.
You may also like to check out: History Unveiled : Qutub Minar and Iron Pillar of Delhi!
Tips for Visiting Qutub Minar
If you are planning to visit Qutub Minar, here are some tips to make your trip more enjoyable and comfortable:
The best time to visit Qutub Minar is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and cool. Avoid visiting during summers, when it is hot and humid, or during monsoons, when it is rainy and muddy.
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that are suitable for walking and climbing. Avoid wearing skirts or shorts that may offend the religious sentiments of some people. Also, cover your head with a scarf or a hat when entering the mosque.
Carry a water bottle, a camera, a guidebook, and some cash with you. There are no water fountains or ATMs in the complex. You can buy souvenirs, snacks, and drinks from the vendors outside the complex.
Be respectful of the culture and history of the place. Do not litter, graffiti, or damage any part of the complex. Do not disturb or harass the animals or birds that live in the complex.
Do visit Qutub Minar early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the views. Do not climb on or touch any part of Qutub Minar or its attractions as it is prohibited and punishable by law.
Qutub Minar is a remarkable monument that showcases the history, culture, and architecture of Delhi. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts millions of visitors every year. It has a unique and impressive design that reflects the fusion of different influences and styles.
It also has a rich and diverse complex that houses many other attractions and features. Qutub Minar is a must-see destination for anyone who wants to experience the beauty and heritage of Delhi.
Have you visited Qutub Minar? What did you like the most about it? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below.