Introduction
Delhi, the capital of India, is redolent with historical treasures. You don't need an archaeologist to dig out the past here. Just hire a local guide and you'll come to learn perhaps all the history behind and the legends associated with a specific monument. The Qutub Minar, an architectural marvel from the 13th century, have invited numerous travellers and explorers from across the globe. You too would surely like a visit to this highest stone tower in the country.

History
One of the finest Islamic structures in India, the Qutub Minar was erected by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak back in 1199 AD. He first served as a lieutenant in Mohammad Ghauri's army. Later, after Ghauri left India, Qutub-ud-Din Aibak declared himself as an independent ruler and founded the Slave Dynasty. The tower was in fact built after the ruler's victory over the last Hindu Kingdom in Delhi. Though it was not finished by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak himself. It were his successors who added further storeys to it. The soaring stone tower was erected adjacently to the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque to predicate the triumph of Islam.

Ask for Tour

Architecture
The sandstone tower rises to a height of 239 feet and happens to be a fine example of the Indo-Islamic art and architecture in India. The huge tower predominates the countryside for miles and miles. There are five storeyes in all, each provided with a projecting balcony. The first storey was done by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak while the second, third and fourth storeys were finished by his successors and son-in-law Iltutmish. The tower's diameter measures 14.32 m at the base and 2.75 metres at the top.

A door on the northern side leads you into the tower and further the spiral stairway, that has 379 steps in all, takes you to different floors, each of which has a platform and a intricate balcony. The balconies have been done using a special technique – stalacite vaulting – to hold them together. The exclusive work of honey combing is also a feature worth noticing.

The Islamic architectural elements, however, are quite visible right from the base to the top. You will notice countless Arabic inscriptions and Nagari characters in the forms of bands encircling the tower. The inscriptions record the history of the commencement of the construction and the repairs that were done in due course.

Nearby Attractions
Once you have visited the tallest stone tower of the country, you would definitely like to explore the historical landmarks that are enclosed within the huge Qutub Minar Complex. These include Alai-Darwaza, Quwwatul-Islam Mosque, Alai Minar, Iron Pillar, Tomb of Iltutmish, Imam Zamin's Tomb and Ala-ud-Din Madarsa. Your local guide would acquaint you of the interesting facts about these structures.

Reaching There
Local buses ply regularly to the Qutub Minar Complex (South Delhi) from different parts of the city. You can also avail of taxis and auto-rickshaws the keep frequenting the place. Metro rail is another convenient option to move around within the city. Delhi is connected to all the key destinations of the world and the country through its Indira Gandhi International Airport. The rail and road routes of the city are also quite well established.

Ask for Tour