Location :South Delhi,
India
Significance : Tallest Brick Minaret in the World
Best time to Visit : Throughout the Year
Visit Timings : Sunrise to Sunset (Seven days a Week)
Entry Fees : Rs. 10 (Indians), $5 or Rs. 250
(foreigners), Rs. 25 (Video Camera)
About Qutub Minar
The
Mughal rulers have been known for their ambitious and amazing construction
projects. One such architectural marvel situated in the southern part of
Delhi is the Qutub Minar. Fascinated by the famed Minaret of Jam in
Afghanistan, Mughal ruler Qutub-ud-Din Aibak set out on a task to construct
an even higher structure and thus the construction of the Qutub Minar
commenced in 1193. Work on the ambitious project received a set back with
the death of Aibak but was soon restarted by his successor Iltutmish and
completed by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. The 72.5 mts high minaret is believed to
have been built as a victory tower.
Do Not Miss Out On
Tomb of Iltutmish
The tomb of Iltutmish, the son in law of Qutub-ud-din Aibak was constructed
in 1235 AD. The structure built in red sandstone beautifully presents the
Arabic architectural patterns. Originally covered by a dome, the tomb
consists of three mehrabs in the west used for offering prayers.
Alai Minar
Standing 25 metres tall, the Alai Minar was built by Alaud-Din-Khlji with
the intention of constructing a tower twice the height of Qutub Minar, a
plan which was abandoned after his sudden demise.
Quwwat-Ul-Islam
The Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque, also known as Jami Masjid or Friday Mosque, was
built by Qutub-ud-din Aibak in 1192. The carved stones and slabs used in the
construction is believed to have been taken from the remains of 27 temples
of Qila Rai Pithora. The delicate brocade carvings adorning the structure
are worth appreciating.
Iron Pillar
The 7.2 mts high iron pillar, situated close to the Quwwat-ul-Islam,
belongs to the 4th century. Originally believed to have been set up on a
hillock as a mark of respect to Lord Vishnu, the pillar was brought to Delhi
by Tomar king Anangpal. A peculiar thing about the pillar is its resistence
to rust despite being in open for more than sixteen centuries.
Attractions Around Qutub Minar
Hauz Khas
Occupying an important place in the city's history, Hauz Khas is the site
where Alau-ud-Din Khilji dug up a water tank for use by the residents of
Siri. Originally, a tiny village, Hauz Khas today is one of the elitest
areas of South Delhi housing numerous exclusive boutiques, multi cuisine
restaurants and shopping arcades. The area is surrounded by Safdarjung
Enclave, Green Park, Deer Park and the Indian Institute of Technology.
The National Railway Museum
Situated in Chanakyapuri, the rail museum houses an extensive collection of
locomotives and carriages. Some beautiful models of trains and other
pictures display the history of Indian railways through its 150 years of
existence. The museum is spread over an area of 10 acres.
Stay At
South Delhi is home to some of the most poshest locales in the city.
Staying options around the area include hotels for all kinds of travellers.
Some of the best hotels in South Delhi are the Qutab Hotel, Uppal's Orchid
Hotel, Hotel Surya and Park Royal.
Getting There & Around
By
Air : Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi's connection with the
outside world is located at a short distance from South Delhi. Regular
international flights connect Delhi with all the other major cities of the
world while Palam domestic airport, situated 4 km from there, is connected
with all the major neighbouring Indian cities. For more information on
flight schedule and timings refer to http://indian-airlines.nic.in
By Rail : Three important railway stations located at
Delhi connect it with all the major Indian cities through regular trains.
The railway stations are located at New Delhi, Old Delhi and Hazrat
Nizamuddin. For more information regarding railway schedule refer to
www.indianrail.gov.in
By Road : Delhi state transport buses provide regular
services to all the major nighbouring cities from its three bus stations
located at Kashmiri Gate, Sarai Kale Khan and Anand Vihar.
Distance from Major Cities
