Qutub Minar
Seth Sarai, Mehrauli, New Delhi, Delhi, 110030
The UNESCO World Heritage–listed Qutub Minar is a red brick minaret built in 1193 by Muslim conquerors of Delhi. At 240 feet (73 meters) high, it’s an impressive engineering feat and one of Delhi’s most visited tourist attractions. Although the minaret’s origins are known, it’s unclear whether it was built as a victory tower or as a place for an Islamic muezzin to make the call to prayer.
The Basics
Although the origins of Qutub Minar are known, it’s unclear whether the minaret was built as a victory tower or as a place for an Islamic muezzin to make the call to prayer. Today visitors come to see the intricately carved decorations on the centuries-old sandstone and marble bricks. As the minaret is surrounded by other mosques and structures, including the first mosque built in India, Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the whole complex is worth several hours of exploration.
Visitors usually see Qutub Minar on a 1- or 2-day sightseeing trip around Delhi. It’s considered a must-see attraction in the city, and many tour operators include a stop here.
Things to Know Before You Go
Entry tickets are required for Qutub Minar, and Indian citizens and foreign nationals pay different prices.
Children under 15 enter for free.
The surrounding gardens are well maintained and a pleasant place to relax.
Kids will enjoy the parakeets, squirrels, and other birds that hang around the gardens.
How to Get There
The Qutub Minar is located in the Mehrauli area of South Delhi. Many tour companies can arrange private transportation. Otherwise, the easiest way to reach the site is via the Delhi Metro. Take the yellow line to Saket station for a 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) walk or to Qutub Minar station for a 1.25-mile (2-kilometer) walk. From either station you can also take a short auto rickshaw.
When to Get There
The Qutub Minar complex is open from dawn until dusk, roughly 7am to 5pm. Check the season-specific timing before you go. It can get crowded midday and on weekends. For a peaceful walk around the park, visit as early in the morning as possible.
Mehrauli Archaeological Park
Travelers interested in architecture and Indian archaeology can combine a visit to Qutub Minar with a walk around nearby Mehrauli Archaeological Park. Very few international tourists visit the large park, which is full of mosques, shrines, tombs, stepwells, and other structures from Delhi’s centuries of history. A whole day can be spent exploring the park and Qutub Minar.
Ways to explore
Today, visitors to Qutub Minar come to see its intricately carved decorations on the centuries-old sandstone and marble bricks. As the minaret is surrounded by other mosques and structures—including one of the first mosques built in India, the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque—the whole complex is worth several hours of exploration.
You can see the Qutub Minar on guided sightseeing tours of Delhi; it’s considered a must-see attraction in the city, and many tour operators include a stop here. You can also visit independently, but it’s not near other major attractions.
Accessibility
The Qutub Minar complex is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and paved paths. Nobody can enter the minaret.
Age limits
There are no age restrictions, and the minaret will impress kids of all ages.
What to pack
Sun protection, as the complex is outdoors.
What to wear
It’s a good idea for all genders to wear modest clothing that conceals the legs, chest, and upper arms. Loose cotton clothing is usually most comfortable in Delhi’s climate, and a light headscarf is practical for women.
Not allowed
Climbing the minaret, drone photography
Amenities
Food and drink, restrooms, audio guides
Address
The Qutub Minar is located in the Mehrauli area of South Delhi. Many tour companies can arrange private transportation, or you can catch the Delhi Metro.
Driving
Most foreign tourists wouldn’t want to drive in heavily congested Delhi. Instead, take a tour with a local driver and reach the Qutub Minar in a private vehicle.
Public transportation
Take Delhi Metro’s Yellow Line to Qutub Minar or Saket stations. Walk around 30 minutes from either station or catch an auto-rickshaw to the Qutub Minar’s entrance.
Best times to visit
Early morning is a good time to avoid the crowds and the heat, while you can watch a sound and light show in the evening. The Qutub Minar is open from sunrise until late in the evening.
Best days to visit
The Qutub Minar gets busy on weekends and public holidays, so come Monday to Friday if possible.
Best months to visit
Delhi is extremely hot between March and September, while October to February offers a more comfortable experience.
Special events
The annual, multi-day Qutub Festival in October/November showcases classical Indian music and dance in the grounds of the Qutub Minar.
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