Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar is located in the south Delhi at Aurobindo Marg, Mehrauli. It is a most famous magnificent structure made up of red sandstones called Qutb Minar. It is the second tallest tower of India stand alone as it is from the ancient time more than 800 years. The manufacturing of this tower was started in 1192 by the Qutab-ud-din Aibak (known as the first successful Muslim ruler who built this Islamic dynasty in India). It is believed as this tower was ordered to be built as the famous historic monument of India after defeating the Rajputs. The manufacturing of this tower was completed by one of his successors named Iltutmish.

It is the splendid piece of Mughal architecture and has become a popular tourist spot in India. It attracts millions of tourists especially students every year. It has been declared as one of the World Heritage Sites by the UNESCO. In the ancient time Qutub-ud-din Aibak came to India, fought to Rajputs and became successful to defeat them. In order to celebrate his victory over the Rajputs, he ordered to build this unique piece of minar. The construction of it was completed in several centuries however some changes are made from time to time (last change was done by the Sikandar Lodi). Originally it was built of only one storey tall and other storeys were added by the later rulers.

The base diameter of it is 14.32 metre and top diameter is 2.7 meter. It is 73 metre tall minar containing 379 steps or staircases. It is considered that it was of seven storeys however top two were fell in the earthquake. Some other unique structures such as Alai-Darwaza, Tomb of Iltutmish, two mosques, etc are surrounding this tower as well as enhancing its attraction. It is built in Indo-Islamic architectural style.