Qutub Minar, Delhi

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.