Qutub Minar – History, Timings, Entry Fee & Travel Guide

The history of the Qutub Minar began in 1192, when Qutb-ud-din Aibak initiated its construction.

He was the earliest Muslim king of Delhi, and he began constructing this tower to mark the beginning of his reign.

During this period, he was only able to finish the basement of the tower or the first floor of the tower.

His son-in-law and successor, Iltutmish, completed the following three stories.

In the 14th century, another ruler, Firoz Shah Tughlaq, carried out the repairs and added a final top floor.

This tower was constructed to mark the beginning of the Muslim rule, as the Hindu king of Delhi had been conquered.

It was also used to summon Muslims to prayers at the surrounding mosque.

Wall writings are both in Arabic and Nagari.

They describe the kings, wars, and evolutions that occurred throughout the years.

There were numerous sections of the tower devastated by earthquakes, which were subsequently renovated by subsequent rulers.

This tower is now a testament to how power and religion have altered in Indian history.

It also reveals how the structure has remained strong despite various dynasties adding their unique flavors.

Qutub Minar is not only high but also very beautiful from top to bottom.

It is constructed in a tapering style, broader at the base and narrower at the top.

The ground foundation is 14.3 meters wide with a top that is 2.7 meters long.

The walls are adorned with beautiful verses from the Quran and intricate floral patterns.

On the surfaces, one can also observe geometric arrangements and Arabic calligraphy.

Afghan and Indo-Islamic styles are incorporated into the tower’s construction, lending it a distinct appeal.

The elaborate carvings on the stones are of exceptional quality and reflect the past.

Nevertheless, the external community is sufficient to stun a person with the work level and height.

This tower is a testament to how magnificent and innovative the builders of the ancient era were.

A larger area, comprising the Qutub complex, contains the Qutub Minar.

Most of the other special and historic monuments in this complex are worth visiting.

The following are some of the best Qutub Complex attractions that you cannot do without:

• • Iron Pillar of Delhi: The Iron Pillar of Delhi. This is a 7-meter iron that has not rusted over the last 1600 years.
• • Quwwat-ul-Islam: The first Mosque constructed in India by using the stones of toppled temples.
• • Alai Darwaza: This is a beautiful gateway built in 1311, featuring intricate carvings and a large dome.
• • Iltutmish Tomb: The Tomb of the king who erected the most significant part of the Qutub Minar.
• • Alai Minar: It is an unfinished structure that was also intended to be taller than the Qutub Minar.
• • The Madrasa of Alauddin Khilji: A school of Islamic studies established by the renowned ruler.

These monuments resemble an open museum, reflecting Delhi’s rich history.

It has immense gardens, sitting arrangements, and walking tracks which allow one to know the entire place easily.

If you plan to visit, be aware of the Qutub Minar’s opening hours and entry fees.

The newest information is the following:

• • Working hours: 7 AM to 5 PM (7 Days per week)
• • Entry fee (Indian): ₹35 (Cash), ₹30 (Online ticket)
• • Entry Fee (Foreigner): ₹550 per head
• • Kids younger than 15 years: No fee charged
• • No tripods or drones

There is also an option to purchase the tickets online and save time.

Booking online will be cheaper, and it will enable you to avoid the long lines, especially on weekends.

When foreign tourists enter, they are required to carry identification (ID) or a passport.

Admission to the park is free, making it a family-friendly destination.

October to March is the cooler months, and hence the best time to view the Qutub Minar.

The weather in Delhi during this period is pleasant, sunny, and ideal for sightseeing.

Summer (April to June) is hot, and walking may be challenging (it may be very hot).

It is best to visit in the morning before work or after 4 PM, when the area is less crowded and the weather is cooler.

Quote: The beauty of Qutub Minar shines brightest under a calm winter sun.

Avoid visiting during public holidays if you prefer peaceful and quiet surroundings.

This is also an excellent time for photography as the colors of the stones come out well in natural light.

It is easy to reach the Qutub Minar, as it is well-connected to every region of Delhi.

There are several things to do when you arrive at the Qutub Minar, and they are not only educational but entertaining.

These magnificent heritage sites, such as the high tower and the old ruins, are fantastic to photograph with a camera.

The most appropriate ways are as follows:

• • On Metro: Use the Metro Yellow line and get off at the nearest Qutub Minar metro station, which is right in front of the Qutub Minar. It takes a 10-minute walk.
• • Car or by Taxi: You can either make a personal cab reservation or make use of the ride-hailing applications, including Uber and Ola.
• • Bus: A large number of DTC buses travel to Mehrauli, where the complex is situated.

If you’re new to Delhi, getting off the metro is the easiest and fastest way to do so.

Taxis are convenient, but can be expensive when in high demand.

When you come to the Qutub Minar, several activities await you, which are both educational and entertaining.

Such spectacular heritage landscapes, featuring tall towers and ancient ruins, are incredible to capture with a camera.

Take a tour of the attractions within the Qutub complex and examine each building.

Relax: sit in gardens with your friends or family.

Participate in a heritage walk to learn about the stories surrounding the monuments.

Visit in the evening to watch the tower with gentle lighting at sunset.

If you’re a history lover, this place will provide you with several hours to learn and enjoy.

To children, it is like entering a history book.

You can even do sketching or write notes to record your experience.

A handful of other important tourist sites in Delhi surround the Qutub Minar.

The Qutub Minar is a nearby attraction that you may want to visit:-

• • Archeological Park Mehrauli - It is a collection of ancient tombs and ruins, covered with a rich green carpet of grass on both sides of the path.
• • Jamali Mosque of Kamali - It is a calm and quiet haunt with secret anecdotes and a beautiful building.
• • Hauz Khas Village is a vibrant area featuring restaurants, shops, a lake, and historic remains.
• • Lotus Temple - This temple, shaped like a flower of the lotus with its petals wide open, is an attraction to the viewer. It doesn’t exclude people of all religions.
• • Humayun’s Tomb is a majestic tomb and a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Delhi.

It is easily accessible and can be reached by car or metro within 30–45 minutes.

One may also include some of these locations in a half-day or full-day tour package, along with the Qutub Minar.

These are a few travel tips for visiting Qutub Minar and ensuring that you have a good time:

• • Wear more comfortable shoes, as you will encounter many uneven stone paths.
• • This is because in the summer, it’s a good idea to carry some drinking water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
• • Take a local tour guide or an audio guide app on your phone and learn more about the Qutub Minar’s history.
• • Watch your stuff and do not go to the crowds at peak hours.
• • Book tickets online and save money and time.
• • The place should be respected because it is a historical site.
• • Do not jump over fences or other decorations on walls.
• • The use of photography is prohibited; however, please ensure that you adhere to the rules.

The story of the glorious past, Qutub Minar, is not just a tall tower but a tale that towers in the heart of New Delhi.

It will provide you with a perfect mix of culture, history, art, and beauty in one place.

It is one of the most significant aspects of India’s heritage and one of the most exciting places to visit in Delhi.

Irrespective of the number of times you have visited India, this place must be on your list.

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