Qutb Minar

The tower rises 72.5 meters (238 feet) tall with five distinct levels of red sandstone decorated with Islamic calligraphy and geometric patterns, while its fluted columns taper from a wide base to a narrow summit and are surrounded by an open courtyard containing historical ruins and an iron pillar.

Construction began in 1199 under Qutb-ud-din Aibak following the conquest of Delhi by Muslim forces, with later rulers including Iltutmish and Firuz Shah Tughlaq adding upper stories and repairs through the 14th century, while earthquakes damaged the structure multiple times.

As a symbol of the Islamic Sultanate, the structure demonstrates the fusion of Persian architectural traditions with Indian stonework skills, while its surfaces carry religious inscriptions and geometric patterns representing Muslim rulers in medieval northern India and continuing to draw architects and scholars today.

The complex opens daily for visitors, though interior stair access remains prohibited for safety reasons following a 1981 incident, while the exterior grounds are freely accessible and nearby metro stations facilitate arrival. Early morning or late afternoon hours provide better light for photography.

The construction preserves its original fluted columns and balconies while tapering from 14.3 meters (47 feet) in diameter at the base to 2.75 meters (9 feet) at the summit, with each level displaying different ornamentation styles reflecting the architectural preferences of various dynasties that contributed to its completion across two centuries.

Location: Delhi

Architectural style: Islamic architecture

Height: 72.5 m

Made from material: red sandstone

Part of: Qutb complex

Website: https://delhitourism.gov.in/delhitourism/tourist_place/qutab_minar.jsp

GPS coordinates: 28.52435,77.18525

Latest update: November 27, 2025 19:26