Qutub Minar, Delhi: The Ultimate Visitor Guide

Soaring proudly against the Delhi skyline, Qutub Minar stands as a symbol of India's architectural brilliance and conflicted past. At 72.5 meters tall, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has fascinated travelers, historians, and photographers for centuries.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for a deeper dive, this guide covers everything you need - from ticket details and historical insights to what’s inside the complex, where to eat nearby, and how to enhance your visit with an audio tour.

Quick Visitor Information

Where is the Qutub Minar located?

Qutub Minar is located in Mehrauli, South Delhi, about 15 km from Connaught Place and easily accessible via the Qutub Minar Metro Station (Yellow Line). It stands within the Qutub Complex, which also houses several other important historical monuments.

How much is the entry fee?

For Indian citizens and nationals from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, the entry fee to the Qutub Complex is ₹35. For all other foreign tourists, the ticket costs ₹550. Entry is free for children under the age of 15.

Can the tickets be booked online?

Yes, you can skip the queue and book your tickets online. See our full guide on Qutub Minar Tickets for tips and booking links.

What are the opening hours?

Qutub Minar is open daily from sunrise (typically 7:00 AM) until 8:00 PM for late evening visits. Entry may be restricted during national events or VIP visits, so it's best to check beforehand.

What should I wear when visiting?

Although Qutub Minar isn’t a religious site, it’s still practical to dress modestly and comfortably. Light cotton clothes for the warmer months and a light jacket for chilly winter mornings are recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are a must—avoid heels or sandals with poor grip as you will be treading on stone paths and lawns. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, or an umbrella to protect against the sun.

Are there restrooms in the Qutub Complex?

Yes, public restrooms are available near the Alai Minar and the Alai Darwaza. Facilities are generally clean, but wheelchair-accessible toilets are limited. Baby-changing stations are rare—parents visiting with infants should plan accordingly.

What else should I keep in mind before visiting?

Carry a valid ID (passport if you are a foreigner), and keep your ticket handy with you throughout your visit. They are often scanned at exit gates as well. Cloakrooms are available, but it's best to avoid carrying large bags and any eatables inside.

Brief History of Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar was commissioned in 1193 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, founder of the Delhi Sultanate, to celebrate his victory over Delhi’s last Hindu ruler. Over time, successors like Iltutmish and Firoz Shah Tughlaq added new stories, and the surrounding Qutub Complex began to take shape with the addition of tombs, mosques, and garden spaces.

What makes Qutub Minar so famous?

Qutub Minar is known for its remarkable height, stunning red sandstone construction, and intricate carvings in Arabic and Nagari script. As one of the earliest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture in India, it represents both a political milestone and an artistic masterpiece that continues to captivate visitors.

📌 Further read: see our detailed historical account of Qutub Minar

What to See & Do at the Qutub Minar

What is there to see inside the Complex?

• Qutub Minar: The star attraction

• Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque: One of India’s oldest surviving mosques, right next to the minar

• The Iron Pillar: An ancient 7-meter-tall iron column, famous for its rust-resistant metal

• Alai Minar: An unfinished, much larger minar that was meant to rival the Qutub Minar

• Tombs, Gardens, Gates, and more: The complex also features the tombs of Iltutmish and Imam Zamin, set among landscaped lawns and walking paths.

Is there a walking route to follow inside the Complex?

Yes, having a route in mind can really enhance your experience. If you have ample time and want to explore in depth, we recommend this route:

1. Start at Alai Minar

2. Walk west to the Tomb of Iltutmish

3. Head south toward the Khilji Madrasa and tombs (tucked away but worth the detour)

4. End with the Qutub Minar and Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the highlights of the complex.

This route typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours if you pause at major monuments. If you're on a tight schedule, we've listed quicker alternate routes in our Qutub Insider Guide →

Is there food and drink available to buy at the Qutub Minar?

Unlike some heritage sites, there are no food or drink stalls inside the Qutub Minar complex. You won’t find kiosks or refreshment stands within the gates. But there are small kiosks and stalls just outside for quick snacks. For better options, see our Food Guide near Qutub →

Can I take photos inside the Qutub Minar?

Yes, photography is allowed, but tripods and drone use are prohibited.

Best Photo Spots

Mosque Arches & Colonnades

Mosque Colonnades

Imam Zamin & Alai Darwaza

The Minar Up Close

Exploring the Qutub Minar with a Guide

You’ll find guides available for hire right outside the Qutub Complex. There’s no fixed rate, and as a foreign visitor, you might be quoted ₹1,000 or more, especially for tours in non-English languages. Haggling is common, and not every guide is equally knowledgeable or engaging.

If you’d prefer a more flexible and affordable way to explore, our self-guided audio tour is a smart alternative. It lets you discover the Qutub Minar at your pace, with engaging insights and GPS-based directions that work offline and match your location as you move.

Other Attractions Near the Qutub Minar

Mehrauli Archaeological Park (5 mins walk)

Spread over 200 acres, this park is dotted with ruins, tombs, stepwells, and gateways from different eras. Key highlights include Jamali Kamali Mosque, Rajon ki Baoli (a beautiful stepwell), and Balban’s Tomb—Delhi’s first true arch and dome.

Dargah of Qutbuddin Bakhtiar Kaki (5–10 mins by auto-rickshaw)

A revered Sufi shrine and active spiritual site, this dargah draws devotees year-round. It’s serene, atmospheric, and offers a very different energy compared to the archaeological sites.

Champa Gali (10-15 mins by auto-rickshaw)

A trendy hidden lane full of indie cafés, art studios, and boutique shops. Perfect for grabbing coffee, browsing handmade goods, or just relaxing.