Soaring 238 feet tall, the Qutub Minar stands as a monumental symbol of pride for Delhi Tourism. Its significance is so deeply woven into the city’s identity that it even graces the tokens and travel cards issued by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). Keep an eye out for it the next time you travel!
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, the Qutub Minar holds the distinction of being the tallest brick minaret in the world. Its towering presence continues to captivate visitors, making it a consistent feature on any list of Delhi’s top 10 must-see attractions for foreign tourists.
Here’s what makes the Qutub Minar so special:
- Towering Height: 238 feet (73 meters)
- Construction: 1193
- Builder: Qutub-ud-din Aibak
- Unique Features:
- Five storeys
- 379 steps
- Constructed with red sandstone and marble
- Intricate Arabic and Persian calligraphy
- Surrounded by other historical structures
- Significance:
- Tallest minaret in India
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Major tourist attraction in Delhi
- A magnificent example of Indian architecture
The Qutub Minar embodies the rich history and vibrant culture of Delhi. It’s a must-visit landmark that promises to leave you awestruck and inspired.
Qutb Ud-Din-Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate, began building it in 1192 after defeating Delhi’s last Hindu ruler. Iltutmish, his son-in-law and heir, took on the construction after he finished building the basement, adding three more storeys. Firoz Shah Tuglak constructed the building’s fourth and fifth stories.
The minar though, is a part of the Qutub complex, which consists of other significant historical structures like the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Iron Pillar and a pillared cupola called “Smith’s Folly” (because Major Robert Smith of the British Indian Army thought he was enhancing its aesthetic value by creating a 6th storey by adding the cupola, only to realise how silly it looked & having it removed).
Timings – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed on Sundays.
Entry Fee:
- Indians – SAARC & BIMSTEC – INR 40
- Foreigners – INR 600
- Children below 15 years – Free
Nearest Metro Station – Qutub Minar
