NCERT Solutions for Class 12 History Chapter 5: Through The Eyes Of Travellers

1. Answer the following questions in about 30 words.

1. Why are the accounts of foreign travellers important for the study of Indian history?

Answer: The accounts of foreign travellers provide first-hand information about Indian society, culture, and administration from an outsider’s perspective. They often highlight aspects ignored by indigenous writers, offering valuable and detailed observations that enrich our understanding of India’s past.

2. What were Al-Biruni’s objectives in writing the ‘Kitab-ul-Hind’?

Answer: Al-Biruni aimed to help those who wanted to discuss religious issues with Indians and to provide a comprehensive source of information for those intending to associate with them. His objective was to make Indian customs, beliefs, and knowledge accessible and understandable to outsiders.

3. Who were the three main travellers discussed in this chapter, and what were their countries of origin?

Answer: The three principal travellers are Al-Biruni from present-day Uzbekistan (eleventh century), Ibn Battuta from Morocco (fourteenth century), and François Bernier from France (seventeenth century).

4. What is meant by the ‘enjoyment of curiosities’ as described by Ibn Battuta?

Answer: ‘Enjoyment of curiosities’ refers to the interest Ibn Battuta and his contemporaries had in observing, experiencing, and documenting peculiar and remarkable aspects of foreign lands, cultures, and societies, which were seen as both educational and entertaining.

2. Answer the following questions in about 150 words.

1. Explain the main features of Al-Biruni’s approach as a historian and traveller.

Answer: Al-Biruni adopted a scientific and analytical approach in his study of Indian society. He studied Sanskrit, interacted with Brahmana scholars, and referred to religious and philosophical texts. His ‘Kitab-ul-Hind’ was methodically structured, often starting with a question, describing Indian traditions, and comparing them with other civilizations. He was critical yet empathetic, striving to understand Indian customs in their own context rather than through his cultural lens. His objectivity, comparative analysis, and commitment to accuracy make his writings an invaluable source for historians.

2. Discuss the experiences of Ibn Battuta as an early globe-trotter and the significance of his travelogue for the study of India.

Answer: Ibn Battuta’s journey covered vast regions—Central Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and China. As the qazi of Delhi and later as a royal envoy, he observed the administrative structure, social customs, and day-to-day life. His accounts include details about travel hazards like robbers, homesickness, and different cultures. His ‘Rihla’ offers unique insights into fourteenth-century India, highlighting the vibrancy, diversity, and challenges of life. The travelogue thus becomes a critical primary source for understanding the socio-cultural fabric of the period.

3. How did François Bernier’s perceptions differ from the indigenous narratives, and what was the effect of his writings in Europe?

Answer: François Bernier compared Indian society with that of Europe, often viewing India as backward compared to the ‘progressive’ West. He highlighted issues like despotic rule, lack of private property, and caste divisions. His writings influenced European thinkers and reinforced the notion of India as “the other,” seemingly justifying colonial attitudes. However, his observations, though influential, often carried European biases and should be balanced with indigenous sources for a fuller picture of Mughal India.

3. Match the following.

4. Write short notes on any two of the following:

• Al-Biruni’s method of inquiry: Al-Biruni adopted a comparative and objective approach, studying Indian texts, learning Sanskrit, and consulting local scholars. He structured his observations and compared Indian practices with those in other regions to provide a balanced perspective.
• Travelling hazards in medieval India: Travel during this period was perilous due to risks like robbers, diseases, homesickness, and harsh terrains. Ibn Battuta’s accounts detail these challenges, providing insights into the realities faced by travellers.
• Caste system as described by the travellers: Travellers like Al-Biruni found the caste system unique and complex. They observed its rigidity, the concept of pollution, and social hierarchy, often comparing it to social divisions in their own countries.

5. Timeline – Some Travellers who Left Accounts:

• 973-1048: Al-Biruni (Uzbekistan)
• 1254-1323: Marco Polo (Italy)
• 1304-77: Ibn Battuta (Morocco)
• 1413-82: Abd al-Razzaq

NCERT Solutions Class 12 History Chapter 5: Exploring the Perspectives of Travellers

The chapter Through the Eyes of Travellers introduces students to the rich experiences of Al-Biruni, Ibn Battuta, and François Bernier. Understanding their unique perspectives helps you grasp the diversity and complexity of Indian society during different historical periods.

Make the most out of your NCERT solutions Class 12 History Chapter 5 by actively engaging with the chapter’s case studies. Focus on key events, comparisons, and the reasons behind different interpretations to enhance your conceptual clarity for exams.

For scoring high, regularly review important terms like Kitab-ul-Hind and Rihla. Practicing the chapter’s exercises ensures you understand core analysis skills and develop a strong foundation for future History chapters in the 2025-26 curriculum.