Mehrauli, New Delhi

Qutub Minar: Delhi's Tower of Dynasties

An extensive overview of the 72.5-meter UNESCO-listed minaret, including details on its architecture, landmarks, visiting hours, ticket information, nearby metro stations, and top travel advice.

Explore History Tickets & Timings

72.5m

Height

India's tallest historic minaret

Storeys

Each with a projecting balcony

1993

UNESCO

World Heritage inscription

379

Steps

Interior closed to visitors

Why Qutub Minar Matters

Qutub Minar is more than just a tower; it stands as a vertical testament to the history of the Delhi Sultanate, subsequent renovations, skilled local artisans, and the dawn of monumental Indo-Islamic architecture in North India. Erected in the early 13th century and expanded by later rulers, this iconic minar serves as the centerpiece of the Qutb Complex in Mehrauli, a significant archaeological site in Delhi.

The mixture of angular and rounded flutings, intricate Qur'anic calligraphy, red sandstone shaft, upper storeys made of marble and sandstone, and nearby monuments make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts, photographers, architecture students, and newcomers to Delhi.

History

A Tower Built and Repaired by Dynasties

The history of the minar spans the Mamluk, Tughlaq, Lodi, and British eras, transforming the tower into a multi-faceted monument rather than a project of a single ruler.

c. 1199: Qutb-ud-din Aibak begins the tower

Aibak, the Delhi Sultanate's founder, begins construction following the Ghurid conquest, with the first storey credited to him.

c. 1220: Iltutmish extends it

Shamsuddin Iltutmish expands the tower by three storeys, solidifying Sultanate power and defining its initial structure.

1368-69: Firoz Shah Tughlaq repairs the top

Following the destruction, Tughlaq reconstructs the upper section, incorporating new marble-and-sandstone storeys.

1505 and 1828: Later repairs

Sikandar Lodi, along with British engineer Major Robert Smith, conducted repairs. The cupola that Smith removed is still standing on the grounds, known as "Smith's Folly."

1993: UNESCO recognition

The Qutb Minar and its surrounding monuments have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Qutub Minar complex with mosque ruins in Mehrauli Delhi

Architecture

Indo-Islamic Design in Red Sandstone

Tapering Shaft

Starting from a wide base measuring approximately 14.32 meters, the minar gradually narrows to around 2.75 meters at the peak, offering a combination of stability and an impressive height.

Fluted Surface

Angular and curved flutings alternate, casting varying light and shadow on the façade as the day progresses.

Balconies & Muqarnas

Every level is divided by a jutting balcony upheld by intricately sculpted stone brackets influenced by muqarnas designs.

Material Layers

The bottom three levels are mostly made of red sandstone, while the upper levels feature a combination of sandstone and marble, indicating noticeable renovations and extensions.

Calligraphy Bands

Arabic inscriptions and decorative bands encircle the tower, blending religious verses, historical messages, and ornate patterns.

Local Craft Synthesis

The structure combines Central Asian minaret concepts with Indian stone-carving techniques to create a distinct Delhi Sultanate style.

Close up of Qutub Minar carved sandstone fluting and inscriptions

Qutb Complex

What to See Around the Minar

Don't just focus on the minar - the surrounding archaeological area is equally significant. Make sure to allocate ample time to discover all of these highlights.

Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque

One of the oldest mosque complexes in North India, renowned for its intricately carved pillars and rich architectural heritage.

Iron Pillar

A corrosion-resistant Gupta-era metallurgical marvel renowned for its Sanskrit inscription.

Alai Darwaza

Alauddin Khalji's exquisite gateway is renowned for its authentic arch, dome, red sandstone, and marble inlay.

Alai Minar

The enormous incomplete tower was meant to surpass the size of the Qutub Minar.

Tomb of Iltutmish

A richly carved early Sultanate tomb from the 13th century.

Smith's Folly

An old cupola from the British era has been removed and now stands alone on the grounds of the complex.

Visitor Guide 2026

Timings, Tickets, Metro & Tips

Current Practical Info

Opening Hours	Typically open every day from approximately 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Verify hours on the ASI ticket portal prior to your visit.
Indian Adults	Approx. ₹50 counter / ₹35 online
Foreign Visitors	Approx. ₹600 counter / ₹550 online
Children	Children below 15 years: free entry
Metro	From Qutub Minar Metro Station on the Yellow Line, you can take an auto/e-rickshaw or cab to your destination.

Before finalizing your plans, make sure to check the ASI booking portal for any changes in ticket prices or operating hours due to security, conservation, or event reasons.

Best Way to Visit

Start early: Morning light is good for photos and crowds are lighter.
Wear walking shoes: The complex has uneven historic surfaces and open lawns.
Carry water: Delhi heat can be intense from April to September.
Use a guide or audio guide: The website becomes clearer when the nearby landmarks are discussed as a whole.
Combine nearby sights: Mehrauli Archaeological Park is nearby and complements Qutub Minar well.

Suggested Itinerary

An easy path for newcomers seeking history, architecture, and great photo spots, all without feeling rushed.

0-20 min

Go to the main lawn to see the minar and capture its full height in a photograph.

20-60 min

Explore Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Iron Pillar, and calligraphy details.

60-100 min

Walk to Alai Darwaza, Alai Minar, and Iltutmish's tomb.

100-150 min

Unwind on the grass, revisit scenic spots, or explore the Mehrauli Archaeological Park.

Qutub Minar FAQs

The tower is currently closed to the public for safety reasons, but visitors are welcome to explore the grounds and nearby monuments.

The hours of operation may vary due to maintenance, weather, security, or public events. Be sure to verify the official booking information before your visit.

The average visitor spends between 1.5 and 2.5 hours exploring the minar, mosque ruins, Iron Pillar, Alai Darwaza, Alai Minar, and capturing

Personal photography is typically permitted, but drone use and commercial shoots necessitate authorization.