The Qutub Minar is a world heritage site and one of the major attractions of Delhi. It is a tall brick tower constructed during the twelfth century. It was built by many rulers over several centuries. The complex surrounding the Qutub Minar itself houses many notable attractions such as the Iron Pillar, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and Alai Darwaza.
Built between 1192 and 1196 A.D., by Qutb ud din Aibak, and continued by his successors, the Qutub Minar is a 73-metre tall, tapering tower of red sandstone studded with marble, Iron, and richly carved with Arabic inscriptions. It was constructed to depict Muslim control over Delhi and has stood numerous years of disasters of different forms and invasions.
Timings (Operation Hours) – 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry Fee:
Time Required: 2 to 3 hours
Best Time to Visit – October to April
The construction of Qutub Minar was started by Qutb-ud-din Aibak around 1192, later it was continued by Iltutmish and was finally finished by Firoz Shah Tughlaq in 1368. There are many stories about the structure. For some, it was built as a symbol of the Mughal rule in India while for others it was constructed for the purpose of call to prayers. The Qutub Minar has undergone many restorations. Sikandar Lodi got restoration work done during 1489-1517 and late in 1829, it was again repaired by Major R. Smith.
Qutub Minar is a 73-meter tall tower, a beautiful representation of Delhi’s development and history. This is one of the best-known landmarks in India owing to its architectural appearance, and historical significance. The minar is slightly off vertical but it is very well-balanced and holds its position even after centuries of its construction.
Constructed with red and buff sandstone with inscriptions from the holy Quran, carvings and floral motifs, the Qutub Minar is an outstanding piece of architecture. It narrows down from a width of approximately thirty-four feet at the circular, three-walled base to fifteen feet at the rounded apex. The architectural style of Qutub Minar later became the blueprint for the Indo-Islamic style of architecture.
Qutub Minar and the entire surrounding complex is a historic and architectural icon. When you are witnessing the grandiosity of the mInar in person, you cannot help but marvel at how it was made in the 12th century and the experiences it had gone through. A visit to Qutub Minar is a must when you are in Delhi as it is not only an architectural marvel but also an important part of India’s rich past.