Qutub Minar

Introduction:
One Location: Delhi
Built in: 1193 A.D
Built by: Mughal ruler Qutub-ud-inAibak
Main Attraction: The Iron pillar, Alai Minar, Alai darwaza.
Current Status: Conserved by ASI and given the status of World heritage site by UNSECO.

Qutub Minar is one of the most popular and most visited tourist attraction of Delhi. The world's tallest brick minaret is positioned in the Qutub complex, amidst the ruins of ancient Jain temples. Every year more and more travelers come here to see this architectural marvel that established the Muslim era in India.

Qutub Minar Architecture:
This amazing brick minaret is one of the best example of the Indo-Islamic architecture. Originally, rose to a height of 72.5m, with a circular stairway of 379 steps leading to the top, Qutub Minar is a five storey minaret. Gradually decreasing upwards, Qutub Minar has a diameter of 14.3 m at the base while the top floor has a diameter of 2.75 m only. The Great Slave Dynasty emperor Qutub-ud-in Aibak has only built the first floor whereas the next three storey were constructed by Sultan Iltutmish, and the last and fifth storey was constructed by Feroz Tuglaq in 1368. Only, the first floor is built of red sandstone while the remaining ones are made up of marble and sandstone.

Also the verses of Holy Quran and some intricate carvings, floral motifs and arabesque are inscribed on this magnificent tower. The tower tapers from a base of 14.32 m to 2.75 m at its top and took 20 years to complete. Encircled with some of the fine examples of Indian artwork, Qutub Minar could behold your attention at the very first sight with its height and architectural design.

Nearby Attractions To See Around Qutub Minar:
Qutub complex where this wonderful minaret is located houses the ruins of some of the best ancient monuments of Delhi.

Iron Pillar: Located in the Qutub Minar complex is the famous Iron pillar that was built in the courtyard of the Quwwatu'l-Islam. The pillar dates back to 4th century and is decorated with Sanskrit inscription in Gupta script. People believe that if one holds the pillar with both hands (behind your back) your wish will come true.

Quwwatu'l-Islam Masjid: A mosque named Quwwatu'l-Islam Masjid is also situated in this complex. It is believed that this mosque was built on the ruins of Hindu temple that were destroyed to mark the beginning of the Muslim era in India.

Alai Minar Alai Minar is a structure that was started by Alauddin Khalji but the Sultan did not live long to see its completion. It was built to match the enlarged Quwwatu'l-Islam Masjid.

Alai DarwazaThe southern gateway of the Quwwatu'l-Islam mosque, as extended by Ala-ud-Din Khalji, is known as the Ala-i-Darwaza.

Tomb of Iltutmish: Constructed by Shamsu'd-Din Iltutmish, son-in-law and successor of Qutub-ud-din Aibak, this tomb lies to the north-west of Quwwatu'l Islam Mosque. Shamsu'd-Din Iltutmish has built this tomb for himself in 1235 A.D.

How to reach Qutub Minar:
Bus: DTC service to Qutub Minar is available from all the major bus stations in Delhi.
Metro: One can also opt for Metro train service to reach there. Get down at the Mehrauli station and take a walk till Qutub.
Other Services: You can also go for private cars or even taxis and auto.

Things To Do In Qutub Minar:
Qutub Minar could offer you myriad of activities to attract globe trotters.

Sight seeing activity: One of the most famous activity that tourist indulge in Qutub Minar is Sight seeing activity. There are several ancient structures that are built within the Qutub Minar complex that can attract you at the very first sight.

Photography: Along with sightseeing activity, you can even indulge yourself in photography. Qutub Minar is an ideal spot to click some excellent snaps as a memoir of your trip.

Entry charges are:
Indians: Rs. 10
Foreigners: Rs. 250
Timings: 9 am - 7 pm(everyday)