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| Qutub Minar |
Qutub Minar is an iconic tower situated in Delhi, India. It is a famous historical site that attracts thousands of tourists every year. Built-in the early 13th century, the tower is considered to be one of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture.
History and Details
The Qutub Minar is a five-story tower made of sandstone and marble, with a height of 73 meters or 239 feet. It was built in 1192 by Qutub-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate, as a symbol of his victory over the last Hindu kingdom in India. The tower was later completed by Iltutmish, Qutub-ud-din's successor, and Firoz Shah Tughlaq.
The tower is adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions in Arabic and Nagari script, which depict the history and culture of India. The first three stories of the tower are made of red sandstone, while the upper two stories are made of marble and sandstone. The tower has a spiral staircase of 379 steps that leads to the top.
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| Historical Marvel of India |
Qutb Minar Complex
Apart from the tower, the Qutb Minar complex also has other historical structures like the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Alai Darwaza, Alai Minar, and the Iron Pillar of Delhi. The Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque was built in the 12th century and is one of the oldest mosques in India. Alai Darwaza is an imposing gateway that was built by Alauddin Khilji, a ruler of the Khilji dynasty.
Alai Minar and Dhruv Stambh
The Alai Minar is another tower that was planned to be twice the height of Qutub Minar but was never completed due to the death of its builder, Sultan Alauddin Khilji. The Dhruv Stambh, also known as the Ashoka Pillar, is a 7.2-meter high pillar made of iron that has stood the test of time for over 1,500 years.
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| Qutub Minar |
Visiting Qutub Minar
The Qutub Minar is open to visitors every day from 7 am to 5 pm. The entry fee for Indian nationals is INR 40, while for foreigners, it is INR 600. Online tickets can also be booked in advance to avoid long queues. The best time to visit Qutub Minar is during the winter months of October to March when the weather is pleasant and favorable for sightseeing.
In conclusion, the Qutub Minar is an architectural masterpiece that has stood the test of time for over 800 years. Its impressive height, intricate carvings, and historical significance make it a must-visit place for anyone interested in the history and culture of India. The complex also includes other interesting structures that are worth exploring. A visit to Qutub Minar is a must for anyone visiting Delhi.
