Ever wondered what lies inside Delhi's towering Qutub Minar? You're not alone - but stepping inside is strictly forbidden, and for a haunting reason. Back in 1981, a school trip turned tragic when a stampede inside the narrow, poorly lit staircase led to the death of 45 children. Panic spread in the darkness, with no emergency exits or space to escape. Since then, authorities have permanently closed the tower’s interior to visitors.

But there's more. Experts also worry about structural strain - constant footfall could weaken the centuries-old monument. The spiral staircase, with over 370 steps, is steep, enclosed, and risky in emergencies. The ban is both a safety measure and a preservation effort.

Today, tourists can admire the grandeur of Qutub Minar from the outside, but the mystery of its inner chambers continues to fascinate. What secrets lie in its winding path? Perhaps we’ll never know - but the story behind the restriction adds an eerie layer to one of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks.