Qutab Minar

 

  • Architectural style: Indo-Islamic architecture
  • Address: Qutub Minar Monument Complex, Ladha Sarai, Mehrauli, New Delhi, Delhi, India
  • Opening time: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Nearest Metro Station: Qutab Minar
  • Open: All days
  • Entry Fee: 40 rupees per head (Indians), 600 rupees per head (foreigners)
  • Suggested visiting duration: 1~1.5 hours
  • Recommended Tour:10 Days Golden Triangle to Udaipur Tour

 

Qutab Minar locates in Mehrauli village, 15km away from New Delhi. It's the tallest brick minaret in the world and one of the most important scenic spots in India. It has more than 800-year-old history until now. If you are a tourist interested in history and archaeology, Qutab Minar is a must-see attraction when you tour to India.
 

Qutab Minar

Qutab Minar is a 73-meter high round structure, with five distinct storeys, each marked by a projecting balcony. The first three storeys are made of red sandstone, while the fourth and fifth storeys are of marble and sandstone. The building is 15-meter diameter at the base, while 2.5-meter at the top. A big green ground is around the Minar, as well as other historical buildings. It's designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

 

History of Qutab Minar

Qutab Minar is built at the beginning of the 13th century. To commemorate their victory, Qutab Ad-Din Aibak, the first Islamic ruler of north India and founder of the Delhi Sultanate, commissioned the Qutub Minar after the defeat of Delhi's last Hindu kingdom. And it completed by his successor Iltutmish in the 13th century.
 

Qutab Minar


Qutab Minar's architecture style is combined with Islamic elements and Hindu elements. The place where the Qutab Minar stands was initially covered by many Hindu temples before. Early Muslim rulers partially destroyed them and converted them into Islamic architecture. Many Hindu temples' shafts were plundered to construct the mosque. Therefore, it's not a surprise that the mosque is full of Hindu elements.

 

Significance of Qutab Minar

On the one hand, Qutab Minar is to commemorate take-over the area from the last Hindu Kingdom; on the other hand, Qutab Minar is to celebrate the widespread of Islam in Delhi. To some extent, Qutab Minar is a manifestation of the Islamic spirit, and it's a monument to the spread of Islamic culture in the East and the West.

 

What to see in Qutab Minar

Qutab Minar is Indo-Islamic architecture. There are many fine calligraphy, mural, engrave works inside Qutab Minar. After the spiral staircase to the top, tourists can overlook the stunning scenery in the distance. For security reasons, climb up to the top is forbidden.
 

Qutab Minar

 

What includes in Qutab Minar Complex

Qutub Minar complex consists of many small monuments such as Alai Minar made by Alauddin Khilji, Iron Pillar of Ashoka's time, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Madarsa and so on.


Iron pillar is another highlight in the complex, which has not rusted even after so many years. Due to the unique iron-making process of ancient Indians, the iron pillar is a marvel.


Another notable monument is the uncompleted Alai Minar. The successor Ala-ud-din Khilji started to build it into a tower twice the height of the Qutub Minar. However, the works were quitted after his death.

 

Protection of Qutab Minar complex

It's a nice place to walk around for visitors who have interested in history and culture, but it may be an archaeological mess for archaeology enthusiasts. Visitors are allowed to touch and climb in most areas, so the relics are being vandalized every day.
 

Qutab Minar

The worst thing is that the new stones used do not match the monument. The iconic building Qutab Minar is well protected and restored, but other less famous relics are poor restoration work here. As an important archaeological site in India, it deserves professional restoration.

 

What else to see nearby

Many other scenic spots around Qutab Minar Complex deserve you a whole day spending.


Mehrauli archeological park is nearby where you can see various remains tombs, arches, tombs and some other stuff. It's a no entrance fee attraction.


There is a thick forest bordering the Qutub Minar complex, starting from Adham Khan's tomb. Visitors who like trekking can choose to explore this forest. Gate 5 is the nearest one to the complex.


Hauz Khas urban village is 15 minutes away by vehicle from Mehrauli village. Foodies will explore food and beverage here. Furthermore, there are ancient ruins for adults and a deer park that's fun for kids.

 

How to reach the Qutab Minar

It situated in South Delhi, 15km away from downtown New Delhi. You can get there by bus, metro, or taxi. We recommend you rent a private vehicle there. If you are on a budget, the Metro train is a good way to reach there. Take Yellow Line metro, get off at the closest metro train station Qutub Minar on the Yellow Line, then walk by foot around 20 minutes or take tuk-tuk can arrive.

 

Tips to Qutab Minar

♦ There is no appropriate fencing around steep steps. If you travel with your children, take care of your children.

♦ Sunrise and sunset are the perfect time for a misty and mysterious setting.

♦ Food isn't allowed inside the Qutub Minar complex.

 

Qutab Minar is an amazing historical site. We highly recommend you to visit this place to experience the history and culture of India! A must for your trip to Delhi!

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