Your Guide to Chand Minar: Activities & Local Gems 2025

Imagine a really big fort called Daulatabad Fort. Inside, standing tall, is something called Chand Minar. It was built to remember when a king named Ala-ud-din Bahmani won a big fight for the fort. Even though it’s super tall, maybe one of the tallest towers in India, not everyone knows about it. But it’s really cool to see! It shows how strong and how good at art the kings of the Bahmani kingdom were a long, long time ago. If you like learning about olden days or if you just want to see a quiet and special place that’s not too crowded, then Chand Minar is perfect for you! Let’s find out all the interesting things about its history and how it was built in Daulatabad.

Historical Significance and Purpose

Image Credit: Aak.jain54 for Wikimedia

The Chand Minar is a significant structure within Daulatabad Fort, built during the early Bahmani Sultanate period. Its primary purpose was to serve as a victory monument, marking Ala-ud-din Bahmani’s conquest of the fort. It also served as a symbol of the Bahmani Sultanate’s power and influence in the Deccan region.

• Architecture:

It is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture, blending local and Persian styles. The presence of a small mosque at its base and the use of Persian blue tiles (though remnants may be limited now) are consistent with the artistic influences of the period.

Also Read: Forts In Maharashtra

Visitor Information: Chand Minar (within Daulatabad Fort)

Here’s a guide to essential information that you need to keep in mind:

Where is Chand Minar located within Daulatabad Fort?

Once you enter the main gate of Daulatabad Fort, you will need to walk uphill through a series of fortified gateways and winding pathways. Chand Minar is situated relatively close to the upper levels of the fort, not immediately after the entrance. As you ascend, follow the signs or ask local guides for directions towards the “Chand Minar” or “Victory Tower.” It is a prominent structure and generally well-indicated within the fort complex. You’ll likely pass other significant structures like the Bharat Mata Temple and the Jami Masjid on your way up. The minaret stands in a more open area, offering views of the surrounding landscape from its base.

What is the Best Time to Visit?

Time of Year: The best time to visit Daulatabad Fort and Chand Minar is during the cooler months, from October to March. The weather in this region of Maharashtra can get quite hot during the summer (April to June), making extensive exploration of the fort uncomfortable. The monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rainfall, which can make the pathways slippery and hinder sightseeing.

Time of Day: It’s advisable to visit the fort in the early morning or the late afternoon. This helps you avoid the day’s peak heat and provides better lighting for photography. The fort generally opens around sunrise and closes around sunset.

Entry Fee & Timings (for Daulatabad Fort)

There is no entry fee for Chand Minar, however, a general entry fee for Daulatabad Fort is charged as below:

• Indian Adult: ₹25 per person
• Children: Free entry for children under 15 years old
• Foreign Tourists: ₹250

The Chand Minar at Daulatabad Fort is open to the public every day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. To fully explore the Chand Minar and the rest of Daulatabad Fort, it is recommended to allocate at least 2 to 3 hours for your visit.

Things To Do At Chand Minar

Image Credit: Danial Chitnis for Wikimedia

While Chand Minar itself is a captivating structure, your visit will be most rewarding when combined with exploring the incredible Daulatabad Fort it stands within. Here’s a list of engaging activities:

Embark on an Exploration of Daulatabad Fort

Chand Minar is a jewel within the crown of Daulatabad Fort. We highly recommend dedicating much of your visit to discovering the fort’s many wonders. Wander through its imposing gateways, marvel at the ingenious defensive fortifications, and learn about the ancient water management systems that sustained this historical stronghold. Each corner of the fort tells a story.

Admire the Unique Architecture of Chand Minar

Take your time to appreciate the fascinating Indo-Islamic architectural style of the minaret truly. Stand in awe of its impressive height of approximately 30 meters (around 100 feet) and its solid base, which measures about 70 feet in circumference. Observe how the tower is divided into four distinct levels, traditionally noted for housing 24 chambers. Don’t miss the small mosque at its base, where you can still see traces of beautiful Persian blue tiles, hinting at the artistic grandeur of the past. This is a treat for anyone interested in historical design and craftsmanship.

Enjoy Scenic Views from the Minar’s Base

Please note that climbing to the top of Chand Minar is currently not permitted for safety reasons. However, the minaret’s impressive height still offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from its base. Take in the sprawling Daulatabad Fort and the lush green countryside beyond you. This is a perfect spot to pause, reflect, and capture memorable photographs.

Delve into the Rich History of the Site

Chand Minar and Daulatabad Fort are steeped in a captivating history, having witnessed the rise and fall of powerful dynasties. If you are passionate about the past, this is an exceptional place to immerse yourself in stories of kings, battles, and cultural exchange. Consider hiring a knowledgeable local guide who can bring the history of the minar and the fort to life with fascinating anecdotes and insights.

Visit the Quaint Mosque at the Base

Take a moment to visit the small mosque or prayer hall at the foot of the Chand Minar. Observe the remnants of the Persian blue tiles that once adorned it, offering a glimpse into the artistic influences and aesthetic sensibilities prevalent during its construction. It’s a peaceful spot that adds another layer of historical understanding to your visit.

Explore More at Daulatabad Fort

While you’re at Chand Minar, don’t miss these other cool spots inside Daulatabad Fort:

• Jami Masjid: A historic mosque. Once a primary prayer hall for the fort’s Muslim inhabitants, the Jami Masjid showcases Indo-Islamic architecture. Note its pillars, arches, and historical significance as a religious and community space within the fort. Some historical accounts suggest it may have been a temple earlier.
• Hathi Haud: A massive water tank. Translating to “Elephant Tank,” this large reservoir was crucial for storing water for the fort’s survival. Its impressive size hints at the engineering capabilities of the time and the needs of the fort’s population, including its animals.
• Dark Passage: This intriguing underground tunnel served as a strategic defensive feature. Designed to confuse and trap enemies, it often involved twists and turns and sometimes hidden exits or traps. Exploring it offers a glimpse into the fort’s complex defense mechanisms.

Attractions in Aurangabad

While exploring the historical sites around Aurangabad, you might enjoy some other popular tourist attractions. Explore around Chand Minar! Within a short drive:

• Ellora Caves (12.5 km): Marvel at 100 caves with carvings, including the incredible monolithic Kailasa Temple.
• Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga Temple (13.5 km): A sacred and significant Shiva temple, one of India’s twelve Jyotirlingas.
• Aurangabad Caves (18.8 km): Ancient Buddhist caves over 2000 years old, a treat for history buffs.
• Ajanta Caves (109 km): Discover stunning Buddhist art and sculptures dating back centuries BC.
• Siddharth Garden and Zoo (14.5 km): Enjoy a green space with a park and various animals.

Related Post: Zoos In Maharashtra

How To Reach

Image Credit: Harshul12345 for Wikimedia

Reaching Chand Minar in Daulatabad is straightforward from Aurangabad. While Aurangabad lacks its own airport, the closest is Pune Airport (approx. 100 km). From there, taxis and buses to Aurangabad are readily available. For train travel, Daulatabad Railway Station is the nearest stop, offering a quick auto ride or even a short walk to Chand Minar.

You May Also Like To Read: Raigad Fort, Maharashtra

Conclusion

Initially built in 1495 by a slave of Sultan Ala’al-Din Ahmad II, Chand Minar is a great example of Indo-Islamic architecture. It is also the second largest minaret in India and is definitely worth exploring for not only history lovers but also those looking to break away from the crowds. So what are you waiting for? Plan your next trip to Maharashtra today and embark on a memorable journey.

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Aryan Sharma

With a passion for exploring and travelling to the roads long forgotten, experience the world through enthralling stories and adventures. Join me as I share my experiences at some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and quench that pestering curiosity with something exciting!