Qutb Minar History

Qutb Minar, Qutub Minar in Delhi is one of the most popular places to visit. Qutb Minar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is to be said Delhi is a city of cities. And ruled by many Rajas Mahaharajas, Sultans and Badshahs. There are many historical sites in Delhi. Each speechless stone narrates the story of its builder. Here at Qutub Minar Historical Complex These innocent stones arches pillers, tells you the glory of its rulers who rules over this land with a great mighty and honor. Enjoy Qutub Minar Delhi History-Architecture-Timing Ticket and location is an interesting narration I hope you enjoy it. You are Welcome.

Qutub Minar in Delhi Overview

The evening sun marks the leaning silhouette of the mighty tower of power as your memories of the past become brighter with the setting sun in the background. As you enter, magnificent plaques greet you and tell you about the history. But Qutub Minar is many things to many people. In modern times it has reached a different level and entered the realm of romanticism.

Who knew the power of Islam could become a fairy tale for an intimate conversation over a bottle of bubbly. And so history is different for us because we make assumptions and interpretations in whatever way pleases us. Those who appreciate history can hire a Guide available at the Ticket counter, entrance with detailed information about the monument.

Delhi Tour Guide for Must Visit Places in Delhi.

Qutub Minar Delhi Timings and Ticket

Timings of Qutb Minar Delhi are from 7 am to 9 pm. open for visitors on all days of the week. The opening time of Qutub Minar is 7 am. Although the Qutub Minar can be seen at any time of the day, best to visit the monument in the morning hours to avoid the crowd. Qutb Minar’s closing time is 9 PM. Best Experience is to visit after sunset. Qutub Minar Delhi illuminates after dark up to 9 pm.
The entrance Ticket to Qutub Minar is Rs 35 per person for Indian residents, while the ticket fee for foreign tourists is Rs 550 per person. The Indian Classical Music and Dance Festival which usually takes place in the month of November.

Qutub Minar in Delhi a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Qutub Minar, in Delhi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site declared in 1993. Standing tall and proud as a symbol of Indo-Islamic power and dominance, It is part of the Qutub Complex which includes the Quwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Alai Darwaza, Alai Minar, Alauddin Madrasa and Tomb, Iron Pillar, Imam Zamin’s Tomb, Sanderson’s Sundial and Major Smith’s Cupola. The Alai Minar was supposed to be the tallest minaret in the world, envisioned to be twice the size of Alauddin Khilji’s Qutub Minar, but after his death no one fulfilled his ambition.

Qutub complex in Delhi is the venue of annual three-day Qutb Festival — a gathering of musicians, artists and dancers. Surrounded by a picturesque garden, the Qutub Minar creates a memorable scene. Tourists also come here to relax in the garden and admire the attractive look of the tower. Many of them can be seen taking pictures of this magnificent architecture to remember the experience through photos of the Qutub Minar.

Qutub Minar Delhi History

The Qutub Minar is an iconic monument that tells the history of Delhi like no other. Qutub Minar, in Delhi is a has always been shrouded in mystery and conflicting views. One of the last remaining monuments showing Indo islamic architecture, built as a symbol of victory over Muslim invaders on Hindu lands, the Qutab Minar served as a tower of victory when Muhammad Ghori overpowered the Rajput king Prithviraj Chauhan . it is believed to be the first building to mark the arrival of Muslim rulers in the country. Although there are some conflicting views on this too. According to historians, the minaret was named after Sultan Qutb-ud-din Aibak, who was responsible for the construction of the minar, while others believe that it was named after Khwaja Qutb-ud-din Bakhtiyar Kaki. Was placed, who was a saint from Baghdad. which was held in high esteem by Sultan al-Tamish.

The Qutb Minar was built in 1192 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the first ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, to commemorate his victory over the last Hindu kingdom of Delhi. The minaret has withstood the forces of nature and time — it is said to have had its upper storey damaged by lightning in 1368, which was later replaced by the present two storeys by Sultan Firuz Shah Tughlaq. Then in 1803, an another earthquake shook the tower and Robert Smith, a major in the British Indian Army, renovated the tower in 1828 and even added a dome on the fifth floor which added another floor to the tower. But in 1848, the then Governor-General of India, Lord Henry Hardinge, directed that the dome be taken down and placed at ground level to the east of the Qutub Minar, where it remains today and is known as Smith’s Folly. Is. This is one of the reasons why this structure has different architectural structures from the era of Aibak to the Tughlaq dynasty.

It is not certain whether this tower was dedicated to the Sufi saint Qutbuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki or not his Drgah is Delhi at Mehrauli. Aibak built only the basement of the monument, and his successor Sultan al-Tamish added three more storeys. Old Buildings in Qutub Minar Complex Unfortunately, this historical monument has faced some natural calamities. In 1369 AD, it was completely damaged by lightning on the top floor of the tower. Then, Sultan Firoz Shah Tughlaq rebuilt the monument and added another storey made of marble and red sandstone. Again, in 1505, an earthquake destroyed the tower. Sikandar Lodi, who was the Sultan at that time, had the top two stories of the minaret made of marble. As you are Qutub complex you might be interested to visit Mehrauli Archeological Park.

Qutub Minar Delhi it’s Architecture

The Qutub Minar’s architectural and design has influence taken from the Jam Minar in Afghanistan. Built in the Indo-Islamic Afghan style of architecture, Qutb Minar is made of red sandstone and lime paste. Qutub Minar claims to be one of the tallest minarets in the world. The height of the Qutub Minar is 72.5 meters. Built by Qutbuddin Aybak in 1192. The first three floors are made of red stone and are relatively pale. The fourth is white because it is made of marble. The last floor is made of sandstone. Quranic verses can be seen engraved on the minar with Persian Arabic and Nagri characters. its floor has intricate carvings and inscriptions from the Holy Quran, while the balconies are ornately decorated and supported by ornate brackets. The base of the floor is different from each other. For example, the foundation of the first floor consists of angular and circular grooves, while the foundation of the second floor is rounded and on the third floor you will see angular flutes. Borders with lotus motifs, garlands and bells were added with a local sensibility. Visit the tower today to experience its beauty. The lower three stories have red sandstone cylindrical hilts, separated by eaves and balconies, with muqarnas. The fourth pillar is made of marble and the fifth is made of marble and sandstone with Quranic texts and decorative carvings. On the walls of the Qutub Minar are inscriptions in Nagari and Persian Arabic characters

The incredible Qutub Minar has five tapering floors stands at a height of 72.5 meters or 240 feet, with a diameter of 14.3 meters at the base and 2.7 meters at the top (The minar is about 47 feet wide at the base while its top is about 9 feet). A spiral staircase consisting of 379 steps leads to the top of the monument. Not only the style, but also the materials used to build the different floors of Qutb Minar in Delhi varied from the time of Qutbuddin Aybak to the time of Feroz Shah Tughluq. Presenting an excellent example of architectural excellence, it stands at a magnificent location. Qutub is consists of 5 towers, each with a different design. The difference in architecture is mainly due to the change of rulers during its construction. The tower is said to be leaning about 10 degrees from the vertical, but is considered safe thanks to constant monitoring by experts to ensure that rainwater does not affect its foundation. In the past and even today, the Qutub Minar stands as an inspiration for many minarets like Chand Minar built in 1445 in Daulatabad, Maharashtra built after it.

Earlier, the general public was allowed to go to the top of the tower, but on December 4, 1981, 45 people were killed in a stampede due to a power failure. That is why people were prevented from entering the Qutub Minar.

Qutub Minar Complex

Quwwatul Islam mosque

The Qutub complex also houses the Quwwatul Islam (Light of Islam) mosque, which is believed to be one of the oldest mosques in northern India. It was built using the materials from around 27 jain temples, one can be see in the Hindu-style of decoration in the columns and domb of the building. The architectural beauty of this mosque in pillars and arches attracts many admirers. It is also said that Hindu craftsmen also helped in the construction of this mosque. To the west of the mosque is the tomb of al-Tamish.

Read: Qutub Minar at Night Show Timing.

Iron Pillar of Qutub Minar Delhi

The famous Iron Pillar is also located in the courtyard of the quwwatul mosque, which is another popular tourist attraction in Delhi. The Iron Pillar was built in the 4th century during the Gupta dynasty in honor of Chandragupta II. With a height of 7.2 metres, this pillar is made of 98% iron but has not rusted and is still standing in strong condition. An image of Garuda can be seen on the top of the pillar.

Alai Darwaja at Qutub Minar Delhi

Another notable structure here is the Alai-Darwaja Gate near Qutub Minar, The Alai Darwaza was built during the Khalji dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate in 1311 CE by Sultan Alauddin Khilji of Delhi and is one of the oldest gates in Delhi. , the Alai Darwaza has a domed gateway made of red sandstone and decorated with white marble. The Alai Darwaza is also known as the “Jewel of Islamic Architecture” as it is one of the first buildings in India with Islamic architecture. Inside the main Alai Darwaza architecture, there is a hall, which is about 35 feet in length and 56.5 feet in width. Its ceiling height is 47 feet. Well-worn lattice windows on both sides of the entrance are also intact and the decoration of this ancient Alai door is also very beautiful and attractive and gives you the details of the architecture of Alai door. After successfully returning from his Deccan campaigns, Alauddin Khilji decided to thank God by undertaking an ambitious project to expand the mosque. This was part of his plan to expand the Quwwat al-Islam Mosque on four sides.

Alaudin Tomb and Madrasa

Altamsh Tomb

Qutub Festival

Qutub complex in Delhi is the venue of annual three-day Qutb Festival This Qutub Festival is a gathering of great musicians, master artists and sufi dancers. Surrounded by a picturesque Qutub complex, the Qutub Minar creates a beautiful cultural scene as back drop. Tourists also come here to enjoy this festival in the evening and admire the attractive look of the tower. Many of them can be seen taking pictures of this magnificent architecture to remember the experience through photos of the Qutub Minar.

Qutub Minar also boasts of being the first monument in India to introduce e-ticketing facility. Apart from this, the image of Qutub Minar on the travel card issued by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation also shows the historical and architectural importance of this tower.

Where is Qutub Minar Delhi & How to reach?

Qutub Minar is located around 30 minutes drive from the central Delhi. From Delhi airport, it will take around 25 minutes to reach the Qutub Minar at Mehrauli.
There are many public transport buses that run at regular intervals to Qutub Minar. Tourists can also hire a taxi or an auto rickshaws. Qutub Minar is a popular attraction of the city, finding the route wouldn’t be a rocket science. One of the best ways to reach Qutub Minar in Delhi is by Metro Rail. Qutub Minar has its own metro station which falls on the Yellow Line connecting Sampur Badli to HUDA City Centre.
From Qutub Minar Metro station hire a local auto rickshaw to the Qutub Complex. It takes around 5 minutes to reach One can also walk to cover the distance and it takes around 15 minutes to reach the monument. If you drive in yourselves, there’s a ample parking for cars and buses.

Qutub Minar Delhi Timings & Entry Fee

Opening Hours7:00 am to 9:00 pmClosed DaysOpen All DaysEntry Fee (Indian)₹ 35 with Card or 40 cashEntry Fee (Foreigner)₹ 550 with Card or 600 cash

FAQ About Qutub Minar in Delhi

Q. Who built Qutub Minar Delhi and why?
A: Around 1192, Qutb al-Din Aybak envisioned the Qutb Minar, but he could only complete the basement. The construction was later taken over by his successor Al-Tamish who built three more floors of the tower. The last two floors were built by Feroz Shah Tughluq. The tower was built as a victory monument to celebrate the Muslim dominance of Delhi after the defeat of the last Hindu ruler — Prithviraj Chauhan.
Q. What is Qutub Minar Delhi famous for?
A: Qutub Minar is one of the tallest minarets in India with a height of 72.5 meters. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the tallest brick tower in the world. This 12th century minaret is believed to be the oldest Islamic structure in India with both Arabic and Brahmi inscriptions.
Q. What is the ticket price for Qutub Minar Delhi?
A: The entry ticket is INR 35 for Indian visitors and INR 550 for foreign visitors. For SAARC and BIMSTEC nationals, the entry fee is the same as for Indian nationals, i.e. Rs.35. Children under 15 years of age can enter for free. Please note that you must carry your ID card to purchase tickets and before enter the monument.
Q. What are the timings of Qutub Minar Delhi?
A: The Qutub Minar is open on all days of the week, and the visiting hours are from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit this monument is during the winter season, when the weather is cool and pleasant for tourism.

Q. How many floors are there in Qutub Minar?
A. Qutub Minar has five different floors.

Q. What is the height of Qutub Minar?
A. The height of Qutub Minar is 72.5 meters.

Q. Is there any sound and light show at Qutub Minar?
A. Light and sound show is organized in Qutub Minar. The timings of the light and sound show are from 7 PM to 9 PM.

Q. What are the different materials used in the construction of Qutub Minar Delhi?
A. The quality of materials used in the construction of Qutub Minar varies. It was built over several decades and was built during the reign of The material used in the construction of the first three storeys of Qutub Minar is red sandstone, while the remaining storeys are made of marble and sandstone.

Q. What are the different monuments in the Qutub Minar Delhi complex?
A. There are various tourist attractions in the Qutub Minar complex. Some of them are Iron Pillar, Alai Darwaza, Tomb of Al-Tamish, Alai Minar, Tomb of Imam Zaman, Alauddin Madrasa and Quwwatul Islam Mosque.

Q. What is the address of Qutub Minar?
A. The address of Qutub Minar is Kalka Das Marg, Mehrauli, New Delhi — 110030. Qutub Minar Metro Station is just minutes away from it.

Q. What is the height/length of Qutub Minar?
A. The height or length of Qutub Minar is 72.5 meters which is 237.8 feet.

Q. What is the significance of the iron pillar at Qutub Minar?
A. The Iron Pillar in the Qutub Minar complex, built in the 4th century during the Gupta reign in honor of Chandragupta II, is a fine example of ancient Indian metalwork. Despite being made of iron, this pillar did not rust. The iron pillar, which is more than 2000 years old, is still standing strong. The iron used in the construction of this pillar is said to be of exceptionally pure quality, although scientists are still not certain how the metal was obtained or what techniques were used.

Q. What is inside Qutub Minar?
A. Before the 1981 accident, tourists were allowed inside the Qutub Minar. A narrow flight of 397 steps leads up to the top of the tower. However, now it is not possible for tourists to enter the minaret and see the interior of Qutub Minar. There are some pictures of Qutub Minar which show the inside view of this tower.