One of the most visited tourist destination of
Delhi, Qutub Minar was built in 1199 by Qutub-ud-Din. The sultan's successor and son-in-law, Iltutmish, completed the construction. The purpose of building this beautiful tower is still not very clear. It is believed by some 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 nearby mosque and was used by the muezzins to call the faithful to prayer. Qutub Minar is 72.5 metres high and one need to climb 379 steps to reach the top.The diameter of the base is 14.3 metres while the top floor measures 2.7 metres.
“ It was another monument which was a part of my itinerary. Just like Leaning tower of Pisa, Qutub Minar is an Indian monument which is quite at par with it. Though the two edifice differ in length and architecture, yet Qutub Minar can be called the only longest tower in Asia.” Said Lucy Charlien, who visited Delhi, in the year 2006.
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). How the pillar moved to its present location remains a mystery. 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
This massive fort is the place from where the Prime Minister of India addresses the public on the Independence day.
India Gate
A memorial built by the British in the memory of the soldiers, who died in the world war II.
Qutub Minar, the name itself divulges respect for it and that what it get when we visit the monument. You also inturn get a scenic charm of an edifice which is just so great.
“Delhi is full of big and small monuments, but this is one which leaves an imprint so much so that it becomes difficult for you to take it out of your mind. I still couldn’t manage to do that.” ended Lucie Charlien.
Location : 15-km South Of New Delhi
Speciality : The highest stone tower in India. Houses - Quwwatu'l-Islam Mosque, The Iron Pillar, Alai Minar & Alai Darwaza
Best time to Visit : Through out the year.
Getting There
As Qutub Minar is located in Delhi, the capital city of India, it is very much accessible by any means of Transport from any part of India.
By Air : One can easily reach Delhi by Air route, as Delhi is connected to all major cities of India and World.
By Rail : Delhi is well connected to all the parts of India by the railways tracks. One can easily reach from any part of India by railways.
By Road : The people staying near to Delhi can easily reach Delhi by the road, as Delhi has well-defined roads.
Where to Stay : Delhi Hotels
Excursion : Agra,
Jaipur,
Mathura & Vrindavan,
Rishikesh.
Many thanks to Lucy Charlien, who shared her experience with us.
