A new generation of hotels operated by world class professionals.
A new generation of hotels operated by world class professionals.
Cities
Qutub Minar Delhi: Interesting Facts You Need to Know
All of us have heard about Qutub Minar in Delhi. The tall tower, which is not just a tourist attraction but a significant historical monument, is a monument you must visit. This monument holds rich cultural significance and is a landmark in the country’s history.
With intricate details, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of facts you might not know. So, let us learn about Qutub Minar in the guide here. Right from the Qutub Minar history to when you should visit it, let us find every detail in this guide.
With intricate details, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of facts you might not know. So, let us learn about Qutub Minar in the guide here. Right from the Qutub Minar history to when you should visit it, let us find every detail in this guide.
Who Built Qutub Minar
The Qutub Minar is one of the many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is known mainly for its artistic brickwork, built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate. The Qutub Minar Delhi’s foundation was laid back in 1199. The structure was completed in 1220. Shamsuddin Iltutmish, the successor of Qutb-ud-din Aibak, completed the construction.
The Qutub Minar was initially used to give prayer calls. A balcony wraps every single storey of the Minar, which is supported by stone brackets. There are various inscriptions in Arabic and Nagari at different locations throughout the Minar. These inscriptions reveal the Qutb history.
As per inscriptions, the minar was also repaired by Firuz Shah Tughlaq and Sikandar Lodi. The overall Qutub Minar height is 72.5 m. It is broad at the bottom with a diameter of 14.32m and narrow at the top with just 2.75m. Based on its construction and history, it will be rightly said that Qutub Minar is a testament to the vision of various dynasties and rulers.
The Qutub Minar was initially used to give prayer calls. A balcony wraps every single storey of the Minar, which is supported by stone brackets. There are various inscriptions in Arabic and Nagari at different locations throughout the Minar. These inscriptions reveal the Qutb history.
As per inscriptions, the minar was also repaired by Firuz Shah Tughlaq and Sikandar Lodi. The overall Qutub Minar height is 72.5 m. It is broad at the bottom with a diameter of 14.32m and narrow at the top with just 2.75m. Based on its construction and history, it will be rightly said that Qutub Minar is a testament to the vision of various dynasties and rulers.
Where is Qutub Minar Located
The Qutub Minar Delhi does not stand alone. Various other monuments in the Qutub Complex surround it. This complex is located in the fortified city of Lal Kot, which Tomar Rajputs founded. The exact area where Qutub Minar is located in the Mehrauli area
of South Delhi.
This complex is a place where you will find archaeological marvels like
This complex is a place where you will find archaeological marvels like
- Alai Darwaza
- Alai Minar
- Ala-ud-din's Tomb and Madrasa
- Iron Pillar of Delhi
- Sanderson's sundial
- Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque
- The Tomb of Imam Zamin
- Tomb of Iltutmish
- Major Smith's cupola
Qutub Minar Timings
If you are willing to explore Qutub Minar's beauty, you must know when to visit this architectural marvel. The Qutub Minar timings are as follows:
As a tourist visiting Delhi, November to March will be the best time to explore the city and this Minar. The climate is soothing, with no harsh heat, and it would be a perfect time to capture some amazing moments near the Minar.
- Qutub Minar Opening Time: 6 AM
- Qutub Minar Close Time: 9 PM
As a tourist visiting Delhi, November to March will be the best time to explore the city and this Minar. The climate is soothing, with no harsh heat, and it would be a perfect time to capture some amazing moments near the Minar.
Qutub Minar Hidden Facts
Now that you know the basics of Qutub Minar Delhi, it's time to explore some hidden facts that make it unique in nature. So, here are the ones that you must know about:
Sign of Victory
The main reason behind the construction of Qutub Minar was to remember and celebrate the dominance of Muslims. It highlights the defeat of Prithvi Raj Chauhan to Aibak.
Tallest Minaret in the World
Qutub Minar's height is 72.5 m, making it the tallest brick minaret in the world. It has 5 storeys, 379 stairs, and a diameter of 14.32 m at the bottom. Each of these storeys showcases a balcony and taper.
Historical Monuments Surround It
Innumerable historical monuments surround the Qutub Minar Delhi in the complex. Some of the top ones you must visit while here include Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Alai Darwaza, and the tomb of Iltutmish.
1981 Stampede
Do you know that before 1974, visitors were allowed to climb to the top of the minaret? Yes, that's true! But in the stampede of December 4, 1981, killed around 45 people. Additionally, electricity failure led to darkness all around the staircase. Hence, the entry is now denied.
Rebuilding of the Top
The lightning once struck the minaret. It led to the destruction of the top floor. This was then rebuilt by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. This is why these floors are quite different from the other minaret floors. These are remade using the marble.
Survived Natural Calamities
The minaret has survived various natural calamities as well. Starting from the earthquake of the 16th century to being stuck by lightning twice in 1the 4th century, the minaret has survived damages yet stands tall.
Attraction for Bollywood
The Qutub Minar Delhi has been an attraction for Bollywood for quite a long. Songs like ‘Dil Ka Bhanwar Kare Pukar’ were shot inside the minaret. But in reality, the shots are replicas of Qutub Minar, as the big cameras failed to accommodate the narrow passages.
Conflict of Name
This is one of the monuments believed to have two stories with it. While some believe the minaret is named after Qutub-ud-din Aibak, a few believe it is called to honour Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki, a Sufi saint. Nevertheless, this is a symbol of pride, victory, and culture.
Majestic Tower of Timelessness
It has been standing tall for over 2000 years. The best part is that the tower stands tall and upright despite calamities and destruction. Not just that, the iron pillar in the complex has been standing tall with no rust or damage for over 2000 years, which is an amazement in itself.
The Incomplete Wonder
Ala-ud-din Khilji dreamt of building a similar tower that was double in height. But at his death, the tower reached only 27 m, and no one wished to continue the construction. Today, Ala'i Minar stands incomplete near the Qutub Minar in the same complex.
Sign of Victory
The main reason behind the construction of Qutub Minar was to remember and celebrate the dominance of Muslims. It highlights the defeat of Prithvi Raj Chauhan to Aibak.
Tallest Minaret in the World
Qutub Minar's height is 72.5 m, making it the tallest brick minaret in the world. It has 5 storeys, 379 stairs, and a diameter of 14.32 m at the bottom. Each of these storeys showcases a balcony and taper.
Historical Monuments Surround It
Innumerable historical monuments surround the Qutub Minar Delhi in the complex. Some of the top ones you must visit while here include Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Alai Darwaza, and the tomb of Iltutmish.
1981 Stampede
Do you know that before 1974, visitors were allowed to climb to the top of the minaret? Yes, that's true! But in the stampede of December 4, 1981, killed around 45 people. Additionally, electricity failure led to darkness all around the staircase. Hence, the entry is now denied.
Rebuilding of the Top
The lightning once struck the minaret. It led to the destruction of the top floor. This was then rebuilt by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. This is why these floors are quite different from the other minaret floors. These are remade using the marble.
Survived Natural Calamities
The minaret has survived various natural calamities as well. Starting from the earthquake of the 16th century to being stuck by lightning twice in 1the 4th century, the minaret has survived damages yet stands tall.
Attraction for Bollywood
The Qutub Minar Delhi has been an attraction for Bollywood for quite a long. Songs like ‘Dil Ka Bhanwar Kare Pukar’ were shot inside the minaret. But in reality, the shots are replicas of Qutub Minar, as the big cameras failed to accommodate the narrow passages.
Conflict of Name
This is one of the monuments believed to have two stories with it. While some believe the minaret is named after Qutub-ud-din Aibak, a few believe it is called to honour Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki, a Sufi saint. Nevertheless, this is a symbol of pride, victory, and culture.
Majestic Tower of Timelessness
It has been standing tall for over 2000 years. The best part is that the tower stands tall and upright despite calamities and destruction. Not just that, the iron pillar in the complex has been standing tall with no rust or damage for over 2000 years, which is an amazement in itself.
The Incomplete Wonder
Ala-ud-din Khilji dreamt of building a similar tower that was double in height. But at his death, the tower reached only 27 m, and no one wished to continue the construction. Today, Ala'i Minar stands incomplete near the Qutub Minar in the same complex.
Time to Explore the Beauty of Delhi
Delhi, the capital of India, is quite well-known for its history and splendid beauty. Loaded with innumerable monuments, Delhi is a place you must surely visit for once. Whether it is the historical marvel of Qutub Minar, the architectural excellence
of Lotus Temple, or the pride of India Gate, the city has something for every tourist.
However, book your stay in advance when visiting Delhi to explore its unmatched beauty. Look for comfortable and budget-friendly options like the ones offered by Bloom Hotels in Delhi. Located at all the prime locations, these hotels offer easy commutes and a comfortable stay. Also, sanitation is amazing, and the food offered here is lip-smacking.
So, why wait? Book your trip today and explore the beauty of Delhi in no time. Visit the marvellous Qutub Minar Delhi and get a chance to explore its amazing history. Enjoy the monuments around it.
However, book your stay in advance when visiting Delhi to explore its unmatched beauty. Look for comfortable and budget-friendly options like the ones offered by Bloom Hotels in Delhi. Located at all the prime locations, these hotels offer easy commutes and a comfortable stay. Also, sanitation is amazing, and the food offered here is lip-smacking.
So, why wait? Book your trip today and explore the beauty of Delhi in no time. Visit the marvellous Qutub Minar Delhi and get a chance to explore its amazing history. Enjoy the monuments around it.
10 Best Tourist Places Near Delhi For Perfect Weekend Getaway
-Mansi Senghar
Indulge in Extravagance: 10 Biggest Malls in Delhi
Bookmark These Destination for a Weekend Getaways from Delhi
Explore Blooms in India