Qutub

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Qutub Minar is an ancient tower - its construction started in 1193 AD. To start with, the shape of the tower is definitely not elegant - it looks awkward with its fat bottom that quickly tapers on its way up. I guess it is built to prove someone's power rather than as a work of art and elegance. Surely, in its glory days Qutub was a centre of action.

Surrounding ruins especially the burials and mosques are built with taste. Carved and inscribed red sandstone contrasting with carved marble. Collonades and carvings belong to Hindu temples, which were either existing there before qutub or were plundered from elsewhere.

It is an interesting place to explore with leisure. If you are going there, check out the shop on the right side of the entrance - they sell a good pespective map of the area (costing rs.100).

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Photos

Carved Windows of Alai Darwaza
Carved windows provide privacy, lighting and ventilation...all at once

Carved Redsandstone and Marble of Alai Darwaza
I love the contrasting colours and carvings on redsandstone and marble

Tomb of Tutmish III
Elaborately carved walls and arches of the tomb.

Minar from Inside Tutmish Tomb
A janitor there told me you about this view, expecting a tip of course - I just took the pic and left.

Carved Walls
Beautiful floral patterns carved in sandstone walls

Inscriptions on Walls
Inscriptions in persian in sandstone walls

Iron Pillar
This iron pillar was more ancient than Qutub - and was built elsewhere. It was plundered and brought here. Owing to its high phosphorous content, it doesn't rust.

Collonade
These columns belong to a Hindu temple

Comments

[Sushma]

Wow
Wow! I am impressed with the knowledge you gathered about these Places. Photography is excellent. A small suggestion, Try and use 'I' sometimes. Its your travel blog and there is no personal touch. Hope you understand what I am trying to convey. Cheers :) Did you quit your Job :)

[indiaTraveller]

Thanks
Knowledge is free - it is in public domain. You just hire a guide and you got more than you can remember. Your suggestion about personal touch is apt, will keep it in mind. Check out my other entry as well - it has more personal touch, I guess. cheers!

[Ramesh HS]

Qutub Minar Architecture
Hi, Brilliant article explaining how Qutub Minar is considered to be one of its kind in India. This is a must see visit places. Thanks for some sharing wonderful pics.. Well, this blog explains it all. However, if you are interested to know more about Qutub Minar architecture and its attractions, please go through the link provided below. http://www.ijaunt.com/delhi/qutub-minar