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Ibn Battuta: His Travels in 14th Century India

Ibn Battuta, a 14th-century Moroccan scholar and traveler, visited India between 1333 and 1347 during Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s reign. His writings, particularly “Rihla,” provide significant historical insights into India’s political, economic, and social conditions, including trade, architecture, and the justice system under Tughlaq’s unpredictable rule.

Ibn Battuta was a 14th-century Moroccan traveler and scholar who visited India during the reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq. His travel accounts offer valuable historical insights into medieval India.


1. Who was Ibn Battuta?

  • Full Name: Abu Abdullah Muhammad Ibn Battuta
  • Born: 1304 CE in Tangier, Morocco
  • Profession: Islamic scholar, traveler, and writer
  • Famous Work: “Rihla” (The Travels of Ibn Battuta)
  • Visited India: 1333–1347 CE during Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s reign

2. Ibn Battuta’s Visit to India

  • Arrived in India in 1333 CE via Afghanistan.
  • Met Muhammad bin Tughlaq, who appointed him as a Qazi (judge) in Delhi.
  • Witnessed the harsh policies and eccentric rule of Muhammad bin Tughlaq.
  • Sent as an envoy to China in 1341 CE but was attacked by pirates in the Indian Ocean.
  • Left India around 1347 CE after traveling through various regions.

3. Ibn Battuta’s Observations on India

  • Political: Muhammad bin Tughlaq was an intelligent but unpredictable ruler.
  • Economic: India was a rich land with flourishing trade and agriculture.
  • Social: Society was divided by caste, and there was luxurious lifestyle among the elite.
  • Architecture: He admired the Qutub Minar, Alai Darwaza, and mosques in Delhi.
  • Justice System: Described the harsh punishments given by the Sultan.
  • Trade & Travel: India had a strong maritime trade network, especially in Gujarat.

4. Importance of Ibn Battuta’s Accounts

✅ Provides a detailed description of 14th-century India.
✅ Offers insights into Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s rule and policies.
✅ Highlights medieval trade, administration, and society.
✅ His book “Rihla” serves as a primary historical source.


5. MCQs on Ibn Battuta

  1. Which ruler was ruling India when Ibn Battuta visited?
  2. What was Ibn Battuta’s profession in India?
    • (a) Military commander
    • (b) Merchant
    • (c) Judge (Qazi)
    • (d) Architect
    • Answer: (c) Judge (Qazi)
  3. Which book contains Ibn Battuta’s travel accounts?
    • (a) Arthashastra
    • (b) Ain-i-Akbari
    • (c) Rihla
    • (d) Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi
    • Answer: (c) Rihla
  4. Which Indian city did Ibn Battuta describe as a major trade center?
    • (a) Delhi
    • (b) Agra
    • (c) Surat
    • (d) Gujarat
    • Answer: (d) Gujarat
  5. Why was Ibn Battuta sent to China by Muhammad bin Tughlaq?
    • (a) As a trader
    • (b) As a religious preacher
    • (c) As an envoy
    • (d) As a military leader
    • Answer: (c) As an envoy

This is a concise and exam-focused guide to Ibn Battuta’s visit to India. Let me know if you need a timeline or mind map! 🚀

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