In the middle of Jodhpur’s old city, surrounded by blue houses, narrow lanes, and the songs of street vendors, stands a tall sandstone tower that never stops watching over the crowds—Ghanta Ghar, the famous Clock Tower.
This landmark isn’t just a clock ticking away the hours. It’s a living part of Jodhpur’s daily life, standing quietly as the city has grown and changed around it for more than a hundred years.
When the clock chimes, it feels like the heart of the Blue City itself is speaking.
Born in a Time of Progress and Pride
One of Jodhpur's most progressive monarchs, Maharaja Sardar Singh, was the one who constructed Ghanta Ghar. Between 1880 and 1911, Jodhpur was growing fast—new roads, new markets, and new ideas.
The Maharaja wanted a symbol that would show the world his city was ready for the modern era without letting go of its traditions. So he chose the middle of Sardar Market, the busiest trading area, to build a grand clock tower.
The clocks were imported from England and installed high on all four sides. They didn’t just tell time—they showed that Jodhpur was ready to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the great cities of the world.
In the decades that followed, Ghanta Ghar became much more than a landmark. It was the place where traders met, travellers arrived, and locals gathered to share stories.
A Carving in Stone and Time
Ghanta Ghar stands about 60 feet tall and is made of the warm red and yellow sandstone that you see everywhere in Jodhpur. The tower shines softly when the early sun strikes it. By night, it looks golden under the lights.
The style is called Indo-Saracenic architecture, which mixes British influences with Rajasthani details. Here are the highlights of its design:
- The Tower’s Five Levels: Ghanta Ghar rises in five neat levels. Each one has carved stone railings, small pillars, and windows. On top is a dome that seems to touch the sky.
- Four Large Clocks: On each side, there is a giant clock face. Back then, these clocks helped everyone set their day—shopkeepers, camel caravans, and schoolchildren alike.
- Ornate Jharokhas: Around the base are beautifully carved jharokhas, or stone balconies, where you can stand and watch the market below.
- Octagonal Fence: A low, eight-sided stone fence goes around the tower. It keeps the area safe and makes the tower feel like it stands in its own little square.
- Detailed Carvings: If you look closely, you’ll see delicate flowers and patterns carved right into the sandstone—each one a quiet reminder of the skill of local artisans.
Ghanta Ghar’s Highlights and Hidden Gems
Here are some special spots you should not miss when you visit:
The Viewing Platform at the Top
If you climb the narrow staircase inside the tower, you’ll reach a small platform. From there, you can see the endless sea of blue rooftops, the grand Mehrangarh Fort, and the busy lanes of the old city.
Sardar Market
Sardar Market, a vibrant tangle of stores, extends all around Ghanta Ghar. You’ll find spices piled high in baskets, bright textiles, silver jewellery, and clay pots. It’s a perfect place to feel the life of Jodhpur up close.
Street Food Corners
Near the tower, little stalls have been serving snacks for generations. Don’t miss the Mirchi Bada (spicy chilli fritters) or the sweet Mawa Kachori. Locals will tell you these taste best when eaten standing right there on the street.
Night Illumination
When the sun goes down, the tower is lit up with warm yellow lights. It glows softly, and the market keeps buzzing late into the night. Photographers love this time of the day.
The Old Clock Mechanism
Inside the tower is the original clock mechanism, carefully maintained by caretakers. Watching it still working after more than a century feels like peeking into history.
When the Tower Comes Alive
Though Ghanta Ghar is lively all year, it becomes even more special during festivals:
Marwar Festival
Held in September or October, this festival celebrates the music, dance, and hero stories of Rajasthan. The Tower Square is filled with performances and processions.
Dhinga Gavar Festival
After Holi, the streets come alive with women dressed as goddesses, singing and dancing. The tower becomes a backdrop to all the colourful celebrations.
Jodhpur Arts Week
During this time, Ghanta Ghar hosts light shows, art displays, and sound installations. It feels as though the old clock is telling new stories.
Ghanta Ghar is Jodhpur’s timeless meeting place. Whether you come to shop, taste street food, or just stand and listen to the clock’s gentle chime, you’ll feel you have stepped into the heart of the Blue City. In a world that moves fast, this old clock tower reminds us that some things are worth slowing down to see.
