4.2 / 5

Qutub Minar

📍 Qutub Minar, DelhiView map ›

🗓 Best Time To Visit:October to March, when the weather is pleasant.

⏰ Open Hours:7 AM to 5 PM, Open all days.

🎟 Entry Fees:INR 30 for Indians, INR 500 for foreigners.

👥 Traveller Types:History enthusiasts, Photographers, Culture Explorers.

🔍 Known For:Tallest brick minaret in the world, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Exquisite carvings and inscriptions.

📍 Distances:15 km from New Delhi Railway Station, 16 km from IGI Airport.

🚶 Things To Do:Explore the Qutub complex, Photography, Visit Iron Pillar.

💡 Tips:Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the complex, No food and drinks allowed inside.

♿ Accessibility:Wheelchair access available up to the base of the Minar.

📸 Best Photo Spots:The base of the Minar, Alai Darwaza, Iron Pillar.

🎈 Special Events:Qutub Festival, held annually in November/December.

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Qutub Minar: A Guide to Delhi’s Iconic Monument

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.

Photo of Qutub Minar 1/5 by

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:

Photo of Qutub Minar 2/5 by
(c) JW Marriot Aerocity

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:

Photo of Qutub Minar 3/5 by

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.

Photo of Qutub Minar 4/5 by

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.

Photo of Qutub Minar 5/5 by

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.

Qutub Minar Reviews

Last year i made it a point to revisit and revive all old memories of Delhi and started with Qurab Minar this time. One of the famous monument of Delhi and indeed one of the beautiful one. An epitome of mughal might and dominance along with the traces of old age indian history and is a UNESCO world heritage. Once you enter the gates, you will see beautiful garden on right side and a mosque on left. A way will lead you to the area where can find yourself in front of “Qutab Minar” with a compound in front of it. You will see people clicking pictures in thousand postures. The compound will lead to 3 different ways: 1) Ashok Stambh (Iron Pillar) on the right hand side of qutab minar holds special important as it was constructed by King Chandra (Changragupta period). It is famous for the rust resistant composition of the metals used in its construction. It’s height is 23ft approx and standing tall since ages holding the history of India. 2) Garden on left side which has a variety of flowers and area where you can sit and watch the sun set. 3) Alai Minar: if you go straight you can see Alai Minar and it is said to be the incomplete tower of victory. It was the vanity project of Alauddin Khilji as the project was abandoned soon after the completion of first story only. You can also see three islamic graves there with inscriptios. You can reach here by bus/ metro/ car. Timings are 8am to 6pm Ticket cost INR 25 for Indians and INR 550 for foreign tourists (p.s. you can book online through yatra.com as well) Nearest metro station: Qutab minar metro station Food: The place is surrounded by many good restaurants and eating places from where you can have a view of the qutab and spend a wonderful evening. See some of my clicks capturing Qutab Minar from different angels. ( Insta Handle @randominspiration_pj)
Qutub Minar, one of the three World Heritage Sites of the city. Memory of my last visit to the monument was so empowering that I couldn’t feel any charm of going there again. But to ‘study its role at urban level’ was the task given to us. The weekend rush, scorching heat, and limited time, all these factors made it a dull study. The only thing I could relate to my ‘love affair’ was the ‘ruined’ part of the complex. “It’s like a precious wound… like a heartbreak you won’t let go of because it hurts too good…” “We settle for living in misery because we’re afraid of change, of things crumbling to ruins.” “Ruin is a ‘gift’. Ruin is the road to transformation. It shows that we must always be prepared of endless waves of transformation…” ~ Eat Pray Love In architectural language, I studied how a monument lives so long and becomes the Icon for the city. Next, the busy long road, people rushing either towards or opposite to you, small pavements, hundreds of shops, preoccupied crowd moving like zombies, and you moving just with the ‘flow’, that’s when you know you are in Chandni Chowk. No matter from where you are or which place you belong to, this heritage street shows you that you are ‘nothing’. The moment you step into the crowd of Chandni Chowk, you are either lost or carried away by the ‘flow’ of it. Here, no one stops for no one. The flow is nonstop, pedestrians, vehicles, autos, rickshaws, even bullock-carts, all looking for their space and you find yourself fighting to get yours. My ‘love affair’ with the place is longstanding just as the place is. When I feel low I prefer to visit this street. It reminds me of the value of time and thus to ‘move on’. In technical terms, I studied the characteristics of an Urban Street.
Travel will make you to understand yourself better and believe me if you want to take the toughest decision in your life just move ahead choose a destination and backpack to isolate yourself . This is about my three days solo trip to delhi. So i planned to meet my friends andtocelebrate New year in my all time favorite and close to heart place "The delhi". So on day one I arrived at IG international airport. From there I reached my hotel. The first place I chose to go was Qutubminar. Explore the beauty of qutub and iron pillar which stands majestically. Roam around garden and illtumish tomb. If you want to cover delhi it is wise to choose metro. Take a metro card recharge it and swipe it to avoid traffic since bus service is less and complicated in delhi. After spending time in qutub Istartedto sarojini market to purchase stuffs in affordable price. Since it was new year time. I found abundant fashion items and accessories at low price. From there I started to delhi main. Evening I reached rastrapathi bhavan andparliament. From there I walked to India gate. It was quite a long walk and you can find lot of eateries like momos, golgappas, ice cream which was very tasty. After exploring all these I returned to hotel and had a sound sleep.
It was again Comedy Central and Friends plus breakfast and South Indian lunch in my relative's home. Post that we went to Qutub Minar. Good for us, as it was some archaeological day, entry was free. Qutub Minar wasn't exciting as such and it wasn't as good as the Jaipur one too but the metro ride as usual was lovely. While coming back through Monday market in Karol Bagh, had a golgappae but missed chola bhatura. I somehow miss that every time. Monday market actually seemed to be a good avenue to buy cheap necessary things. But I was in no mood for shopping so didn't get any. Night, post dinner took a bus to station and reached the station well in advance. There was never a dearth of having juices. Lime, litchi, ice cream and mixed. It kept going on. Day 10 - One Final Journey It was a day I was getting fried up in the train oven. There was never a dearth of Supari clad local men in the compartment.
Delhi has been the pivotal point of India since ages. The sultans who tried to conquer India from time to time always had the priority to capture Delhi first, and then focus on the rest of the country. Delhi has seen change of thrones for generations. However, most of the time, Delhi and the surrounding region has stayed under Islamic rulers and their dominance. Five dynasties ruled over Delhi Sultanate sequentially, the first four of which were of Turkic origin: the Mamluk dynasty (1206–90); the Khilji dynasty (1290–1320); the Tughlaq dynasty (1320–1414); the Sayyid dynasty (1414–51); and the Afghan Lodi dynasty (1451–1526). Much of Delhi’s architecture is a mix of every dynasty’s artisans. People from every dynasty contributed to shaping Delhi in a way that a blend of Indo-Persian to Indo-Afghan or Indi-Turkish architecture can be observed in the historical monuments of the city, most of which are in ruins, except the ones which have been recognized under UNESCO World Heritage Site program.
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