Qutub Minar is one of the significant parts of Qutub Complex which is located in Delhi, India. Listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the minaret is 73 m high and is decorated in Arabic inscriptions. It is a five-storeyed building with a staircase that has a total of 379 steps. The construction of the Islamic tower started in 1192 by Qutub-Ud-din-Aibak and later, other storeys were added by several other rulers. Apart from Qutub Minar, the Qutub Complex also has several minarets like Iron Pillar, Alai Darwaza, etc. to attract tourists.
Qutub Minar History
The Minar was the idea of Qutub-Ud-din-Aibak who was also the founder of Delhi Sultanate in 1199. It was initially a one-storey monument, named Qutub Minar. The name of the minaret was kept after Qutub-ud-din-Aibak. Then, it was handed over to Shamsuddin IItumish, the successor and son-in-law of Qutub-Ud-din-Aibak. He was the one who got its construction completed, adding three storeys by 1220. But, struck by lightning, the top storey was destroyed and then was repaired by Firoz Shah Tuglaq. Sher Shah Suri, later, added one more storey to the monument during his rule.
Top Attractions in and Around Qutub Minar
Tomb of Imam Zamin
It is the tomb of a Sufi saint who came to Delhi from Turkestan. This is absolutely an aesthetic delight located in the Qutub Minar Complex. A small mausoleum is located in front of Alai Darwaza.
Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque
This small mosque is located between the Iltutmish tomb and the unfinished monument, Alai Minar.
Iltutmish's Tomb
The tomb is built in remembrance of Shams Ud-Din Iltutmish who was the third ruler of the Mamluk dynasty of Delhi.
Mehrauli Archeological Park
Spread over 200 acres in Mehrauli, Delhi, Mehrauli Archaeological Park comprises the Tomb of Balban - another historical site that is great to explore.
Things to Do in Qutub Minar
Buzzaria Dukaan
Do you like shopping for ethnic things? Get a collection of quirky, traditional Indian products at Buzzaria Dukaan. It is surrounded by different food joints that will simply leave your taste buds titillating. Here, you will find desi attires, antique jewelry, cosmetics, lamps, gift items, and whatnot.
Green the Gap
You can buy decorative and antique items here which are made of wastes and natural fibers.
Best Time to Visit Qutub Minar
The historical site remains open all days a week. Though, it will be more convenient to visit in the winter, between October and March.
How to Reach Qutub Minar
Delhi is a well-connected metropolitan city that has great infrastructure and transportation modes. The nearest metro stations from Qutub Minar are Hauz Khas and Green Park that are on the Yellow Line. Although there are bus and cab services also available, it is advised to choose Metro Rail Service to save time and for convenience.
Air
The nearest airport is Indira Gandhi International Airport which is just a few kilometers away from the monument. The airport is well-connected to other major cities in India as well as overseas. Once you reach the airport, you can hire a bus, taxi, or auto to reach the park.
Popular Domestic Flights to Delhi
Rail
The nearest railway station is New Delhi Railway Station which is well-linked to other major cities of India and has frequent train services across the country. Once you reach the station, you can hire any mode of public transport to reach your destination. The nearest metro station would be Qutub Minar Metro Station on the Yellow Line.
Road
Delhi has an advanced road network that is well-linked with other neighboring cities of states like Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Punjab, and more.
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner. Click here
