If you're planning a tour of Delhi, there's a good chance you're considering a visit to the Qutub Minar.
Standing 73 metres tall, the imposing minaret is one of the city's most spectacular landmarks. Built on the orders of Qutb ud-Din Aibak, the first Sultan of Delhi, it was designed as a victory tower in 1193 to celebrate the leader's defeat of Hindu rulers the year before. Three of Qutb ud-Din's successors added to the minaret after his death, resulting in the five-storey monument we see today.
One of India’s 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, its red sandstone and Indo-Islamic architecture add to its striking appearance. The tower isn't the only thing to see here on a Qutub Minar tour, though. The surrounding complex is home to a variety of other structures and buildings, including the ruins of an ancient mosque, a sultan's tomb and a well-preserved iron pillar dating back to the fifth century.
Want to see more of Delhi? Our tours of the Qutub Minar include other famous landmarks such as the Red Fort, as well as world-class destinations further afield like the Taj Mahal and Goa.
Things to see and do in Qutub Minar
Towering above Delhi, Qutub Minar is a sight to behold. Surrounded by gardens and a number of other ruins, this impressive site is not to be missed on a tour of Delhi.

The Iron Pillar
The Iron Pillar at Qutub Minar is another of the most popular sights at the complex. Despite having been built in the fifth century, the 7.2-metre structure is still standing strong and without having rusted.

Qutub Minar's gardens
Enjoy some respite from the bustle of Delhi in the site's garden. This green area makes a perfect place to relax and is a popular picnic spot among visitors to the complex.

Quwwat Ul Mosque
Stroll around the ruins of the Quwwat Ul Mosque. Built at around the same time as the minar, it is said to be one of the oldest mosques in Northern India and was constructed using materials from 27 Hindu temples.

The Qutub Festival
If you're planning a Qutub Minar tour in the winter, look out for the Qutub Festival. This five-day event usually takes place between October and December and features a thrilling range of traditional music and dance performances.
Food and drink at Qutub Minar
Delhi's food scene is renowned, which means that you should finish your Qutub Minar tour with a stop at one of the tantalising nearby restaurants.
Enjoy European cuisine in elegant surroundings at Dramz Delhi, feast on Vietnamese favourites at Cho or sample delicious contemporary Indian dishes at ROOH.
Whether you're in Delhi visiting the Qutub Minar, a Hindu temple or the Red Fort, there are plenty of mouthwatering local dishes to try - look out for butter chicken, nihari (slow-cooked meat cooked in stock and spices), and chole bhature (chickpea curry with fried bread).

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