Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar is a 73-meter fluted victory tower begun in 1193, the tallest brick minaret in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site set among early Indo-Islamic ruins and the famous rust-resistant Iron Pillar. Stroll the complex for its carved sandstone and calligraphy. You can no longer climb the tower itself, and it gets busy on weekends.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

How much is the entry fee for Qutub Minar?

Around Rs 35 for Indian visitors and Rs 550 for foreign nationals, with children under 15 free. Booking online through the ASI portal is slightly cheaper and lets you skip the ticket queue.

What is the nearest metro to Qutub Minar?

Qutab Minar station on the Yellow Line is the nearest, but it's still roughly 2km from the monument, so take an auto for the last stretch. Saket station is a similar distance.

Is there a night visit to Qutub Minar?

The complex is sometimes illuminated in the evening and there have been night-viewing arrangements, but hours vary and are not always available. Check current ASI information before planning an after-dark visit.

How long should I spend at Qutub Minar?

Around an hour to 90 minutes covers the tower, the mosque ruins, the Iron Pillar and the Alai Darwaza gateway at a relaxed pace. History enthusiasts and photographers can happily spend longer.

Is Qutub Minar worth visiting?

Yes. Beyond the striking tower, the complex is an open-air museum of early Indo-Islamic architecture, including India's first mosque and the Iron Pillar. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Delhi's essential monuments.

What are Qutub Minar's timings?

It's open daily from about 7am to 5pm, with last entry around 4:30pm. Reported hours vary a little between sources, so aim to arrive well before late afternoon to be safe.

What is the Iron Pillar at Qutub Minar?

It's a roughly 1,600-year-old iron column in the complex that has famously resisted rusting for centuries, a testament to ancient Indian metallurgy. It stands in the courtyard of the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque within the site.

Can you climb the Qutub Minar?

No, the interior of the tower has been closed to the public for decades following a stampede tragedy. You admire it from the base and wander the surrounding complex, but you cannot go up inside it.

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