Located in Delhi, Chor Minar is one of the most popular tourist destinations. It is adorned with gorgeous landscapes that will leave you spellbound. A historical spectacle that dates back centuries is a must-visit, especially if you love to explore the rich cultural and historical heritage. Delhi has some really famous monuments, which you can explore along with eating some absolutely delicious food at the restaurants. It is known as the “Tower of Thieves,” built of crumbling masonry and dating to the fourteenth century; the minar has an arched platform with a tower above it.
About Chor Minar
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Chor Minar, also called the tower of thieves, is a monumental historical spectacle of the Khalji dynasty. Back in the 14th century, It was built under the rule of Alauddin Khalji. Being nearly 700-800 years old, the tower still stands tall with its history of pure bloodshed and violence. The tower has the architectural quality of 225 holes on its exterior, which were built for supporting spears. Back in the 14th century, It was built under the rule of Alauddin Khalji. A 13th-century spectacle which earned its name of “The Tower of Beheading” due to the history of blood and slaughter. The Khalji king beheaded the civilisation of 8,000 Mongol people and displayed their heads around the tower which was symbolic of how Alauddin Khalji ruled without a fear with his head held high.
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Architecture Of Chor Minar
Image Credit: Pratmaha for Wikimedia Commons
Even though it has a history so full of bloodlust and violence, its structure still stands tall after 700-800 years. History has it that old monuments had the finest quality of materials, hence Chor Minar being made of rubble masonry and staging on a platform with arched recesses. With 225 holes on its exterior used for the heads of criminals was symbolic of the power and authority of Alauddin Khalji, don’t let its beauty misguide you about its historical past. The architectural style of the Chor Minar is just splendid and stunning. A well-known structure of the time. It is a pretty tall tower with a height of almost 43 feet. Chor Minar has a strong foundation which is because of the base that is so broad.
Monuments To Visit Near Chor Minar
Looking for some other monuments located near Chor Minar? Add these to your itinerary to explore the cultural heritage of Delhi!
1. Qutub Minar
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A grand escalation of 399 steps and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Qutub Minar is a “victory tower” lying at the site of Delhi’s oldest city, Lal Kot. Founded by Tomar Rajputs, it is one of the most visited tourist spots in the city, built between 1199 and 1220. With a diameter of 14.32m at the base and about 2.75m at the top with a height of 72.5m, it’s the highest tower in India. It laid the foundation of Minar in AD 1199 to provide a place for calling out to god.
Location – Seth Sarai, Mehrauli, New Delhi, Delhi 110030
Distance from Chor Minar – 4 km
Nearby Restaurants – Olive Bar & Kitchen, Diablo, Ditas Delhi
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2. Alai Darwaza
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Also known as the “gate of Alauddin”, it was built by Sultan Alauddin Khalji of the Khalji dynasty in 1311. With the finest red sandstone, it’s a square gatehouse with arched entrances. It is symbolic in Indo-Islamic architecture as it is a World Heritage Site. Sultan planned to extend the Quwwat-ul-islam Mosque on all 4 sides i.e construct four gates but only Alai Darwaza could be completed before he did in 1316.
Location – G5FP+M9C, Qutub Minar Complex Rd, Seth Sarai, Mehrauli, New Delhi, Delhi 110030
Distance from Chor Minar – 4 km
Nearby Restaurants – Mosaic, The Great Kabab Factory, Ciao Bella
3. Hauz Khas Complex
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A grand neighborhood in South Delhi whose heart is in the historic Hauz Khas Complex. Named after a water reservoir, “Hauz” means “water tank” and “Khas” means royal, giving it the meaning – “Royal Tank”. Alauddin Khalji first built it. It’s a witness to the progress and development of shops and lodgings as time is whisking away. It’s surrounded by Green Park to the west and Gulmohar Park in the north, Sarvapriya Vihar in the south and Asiad Village towards the east. Since it has easy access to Delhi metro, it attracts tourists with numerous hostels and cafes.
Location – H53V+667, Hauz Khas Village, Deer Park, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, Delhi 110016
Distance from Chor Minar – 2 km
Nearby Restaurants – Hauz Khas Social, Naivedyam, Bistro Lakeview
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Restaurants Near Chor Minar
Are you craving some food that you eat to your heart’s contentment? Here are some restaurants near the Chor Minar where you can eat some mouth-watering food!
1. Essex Village Garden
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A grand venue for its location to be near Chor Minar, Essex offers multiple cuisines like North Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Located inside the Essex Farms near Chor Minar, its ambience is a serene and lush scenery proving a garden like theme. A treat for the nature lovers who can enjoy the environment as well as the food.
Location – 4, Aurobindo Marg Essex Farms, New Delhi 110017 India
Distance from Chor Minar – 3 km
Timings – 12pm – 12 a.m.
2. Cafe Tesu
A cafe is defined by its cosy and comfortable environment and Cafe Tesu has it all. Located near the Hauz Khas area, near Chor Minara, its well lit interior with tasteful art pieces makes it an inviting space for those who eek comfort while sipping their coffee. The cafe offers multiple dishes like European, Continental, and a gourmet coffees and teas.
Location – 4 Aurobindo Marg, New Delhi 110016 India
Distance from Chor Minar – 3 km
Timings – 8 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.
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3. Rustique
A rustic-chic environment with an open area lawn for its dining and treats, Rustique is the perfect place for you. The decor includes warm cabin wood setting with a relaxed and cozy environment. This restaurant offers a variety of cuisines like Italian, Continental, and European. Its speciality lies in the domain of bakery items, especially cakes and pastries.
Location – 4 Aurobindo Marg at Essex Farms, IIT Crossing, New Delhi 110016 India
Distance from Chor Minar – 3 km
Timings – 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
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The Chor Minar promises you a culturally rich experience that will leave you captivated and provide some of the most breathtaking views. The Chor Minar in Delhi is a must-add to your itinerary when you plan a trip to Delhi – spend a day in Chor Minar and also visiting monuments such as the Hauz Khas Complex, Alai Darwaza and Qutub Minar and learn more about the cultural history in Delhi. Along with the Chor Minar, go to the nearby restaurants for a delicious meal and relish Delhi, known for its fine delicacies. So, what are you waiting for? Take some days off from work and plan your trip to Delhi known to be the city of the hearties people, for a much-needed vacation – a blend of cultural heritage, some of the most alluring landscapes and the tastiest food; as soon as possible, you will feel much more refreshed and rejuvenated!
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Cover Image Credit : Vyacheslav Argenberg for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Chor Minar
What is the exact location of the Chor Minar in Delhi?
The exact address of the church is - 2, Chor Minar Rd, Kaushalya Park, Kausalya Park, Block L, Padmini Enclave, Hauz Khas, New Delhi, Delhi 110016.
What are the timings of Chor Minar?
Chor Minar opens at 10 a.m. in the morning till 5 p.m.
Where can I eat near Chor Minar ?
Momos Cafe, Welcome Point and Dakshin.
What are some good spots for me to go to in Delhi ?
Humayun’s Tomb, Lodhi Garden, Dilli Haat and Chandni Chowk.
On what days is the Chor Minar the most crowded?
It is most likely to be crowded during the weekends and public holidays.
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