About Qutub Minar
Built in 1199 by Qutub-ud-Din, Qutub Minar is one of the most visited
tourist destination of Delhi. Qutab-ud-din Aibak, the first Muslim ruler of
Delhi, commenced the construction of the Qutub Minar in A.D. 1193, but could
only complete its basement. His successor, Iltutmush, added three more
stories, and in 1368, Firoz Shah Tuglak constructed the fifth and the last
storey. The development of architectural styles from Aibak to Tuglak are
quite evident in the minar. Qutub Minar is still the tallest stone tower as
well as one of the finest Islamic structures ever erected in India.
The purpose of building this beautiful monument is still not known, as some
believe that it was built as a tower of victory to signify the beginning of
the Muslim rule in India, while others say it served as a minaret to the
adjacent mosque and was used by the muezzins to call the faithful to prayer.
Qutub Minar rises to 72.5 m high and one has to climb 379
steps
to get to the top.The diameter of the base is 14.3 m while the top floor
measures 2.7 m in diameter. The main mosque near the minar consists an inner
and outer courtyard, the pillars of which is surrounded by an exquisite
collonade, which are made of richly decorated shafts.
Other Attractions Near the Qutub Minar
Iron Pillar
Close to the mosque is one of Delhi's most curious structures the Iron
Pillar, dating back to 4th century A.D. The pillar bears an inscription
which states that it was erected as a flagstaff in honour of the Hindu god,
Vishnu, and in the memory of the Gupta King Chandragupta II(375-413). The
pillar also highlights ancient India's achievements in metallurgy. The
pillar is made of 98 per cent wrought iron and has stood 1,600 years without
rusting or decomposing.
Red Fort
Built by the Mughal Emperor Shahjehan, the Red Fort is a sight to see. Red
Fort or lal qila as it is more popularly known is a masterpiece of
architecture and one of the most haunting spots for tourists from both India
and abroad.
India Gate
India
Gate is a majestic high arch, 42 meters high, built as a memorial to the
Indian soldiers killed in the World War I. The surrounding area is an ideal
place for spending sometime with family and friends.
Getting There
Air : The temple is located in New Delhi so reaching it won't be a
problem.
Rail : Delhi has two railheads - New Delhi Railway Station and Old
Delhi Railway Station, both of which is connected to rest of India by
several trains.
Road : Delhi has well defined road and can be reached from nearby
place very easily.
