The Qutab Minar is a tower in Delhi,India at 72.5 meters (237.8 ft) the world's tallest brick minaret and was constructed under the orders of India's first Muslim ruler Qutb-ud-din-Aibak.
It is surrounded by several other ancient and medieval structures and ruins, collectively known as Qutb complex. The complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Delhi, and was also India's most visited monument in 2006, as it attracted 3.9 million visitors, even more than the Taj Mahal which drew about 2.5 million visitors..
Its construction commenced in 1193 and the topmost storey of the minaret was completed in 1386 by Firoz Shah Tughluq.The Quitab Minar is tall with 379 steps leading to the top.The minaret is made of fluted red sandstone covered with intricate carvings and verses from the Quran.Inspired by the Minaret of Jam in Afghanistan and wishing to surpass it, Qutubuddin Aibak the first Muslim ruler of Delhi, commenced construction of the Qutb Minar in 1193, but could only complete its base. His successor, Iltumish, added three more stories and, in 1386, Ala-ud-din constructed the fifth and the last storey..
The Qutb Minar is notable for being one of the earliest and most prominent examples of Indo-Islamic architecture.
Tourist Attractions in Qutab Minar Complex
Quwwat – Ul – Islam Mosque : Situated north-west of Qutab Minar, Quwwat – Ul – Islam mosque is one of the oldest mosques built in India.The original mosque was built upon a Hindu temple, an inscription over the eastern gateway states that the mosque was built with materials obtained from demolishing ’27 idolatrous temples.’
Iron Pillar : Just adjacent to the Quwwat – Ul – Islam mosque is 7.2 mts high Iron Pillar.Another interesting thing about this Pillar is that the iron has not rusted even after more than 1,500 years. Hearsay, if you can catch round the Iron Pillar by your own arms on back projection, your wish will be fulfilled, so you should take a chance.
Alai Minar : Head north of the Qutab Minar and the Quwwat – Ul – Islam mosque to see the Alai Minar, the unfulfilled dream of Alauddin Khilji.Khilji planned that he would build a second tower of victory just like the Qutab Minar and it would be twice the height of the former. Alauddin Khilji died during the construction of Alai Minar and the tower could reach only 27 mts high.
Alai Darwaza : Alauddin’s Alai Darwaza, the main entrance to the whole complex is a popular attraction which will fascinate you with its awesome architecture. Built in 1310 A.D, this red sandstone gateway is fully enriched with zafri network and stands just south-east of the Qutab Minar.
Location - Delhi
Co ordinates : 28°31′28″N 77°11′07″E / 28.524355°N 77.185248°E
How to reach the destination.
1)By Air :
Delhi has two airports – Indra Gandhi International Airport and Palam Domestic Airport. Both these airports are connected with regular flights from important cities of the country and the world as well. Frequent shuttles run between these airports.
2)By Train :
Delhi has three major railheads namely – Delhi, New Delhi and Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station. These stations are served by many express and super fast trains from various parts of the country.
3)By Bus :
Good motorable roads including National Highways and State Highway link Delhi with nearby states and rest of the country.
4)Local Transport :
Buses, Taxis, Cars, Auto-rickshaws are available as local modes of transport, you can reach Qutab Minar by opting any mode. Metro railway is new attraction in Delhi but presently it is not linked to Qutab Minar.
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