Chinnakada Clock Tower

The Chinnakada Clock Tower is a four-sided structure made of brick and white cement located in the center of Kollam city. Clocks are mounted on each side of the tower to display the time in all four cardinal directions.

The tower was built between 1941 and 1944 to honor K G Parameshwaran Pillai, who served as chairman of Kollam Municipality from 1932 to 1948. The construction period reflects his tenure and influence on the city's development.

The name Chinnakada comes from China-Kada, reflecting the historical presence of Chinese merchants who traded through Kollam port and left behind coins and objects discovered in the area. This name reflects the importance of maritime trade to the city's identity.

The tower is located near Kollam Junction Railway Station and serves as a central reference point where National Highway 66 meets Highway 744. Its central location makes it easy to reach from different parts of the city.

This was the first clock tower built in the former Travancore state and underwent significant renovation funded by the Kerala Government. Over time it has become an informal symbol of the city's identity.

GPS coordinates: 8.88532,76.59119

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:05