Ghanta Ghar, Clock tower in central Kathmandu, Nepal.
Ghanta Ghar is a white clock tower located in central Kathmandu next to Rani Pokhari pond and Trichandra College. The structure features four clock faces and clean architectural lines that make it rise distinctly above the surrounding buildings.
The original tower was built in the 1920s by Prime Minister Bir Shumsher following design principles inspired by London's Big Ben. The current structure replaced the original after an earthquake, preserving its status as Nepal's oldest public clock installation.
The name combines Nepali words 'Ghanta' meaning hour and 'Ghar' meaning house, reflecting its role as Kathmandu's first public timekeeper. You can see how locals still gather near it and use it as a landmark in their daily routines through the city.
The tower functions as a central navigation point in Kathmandu's streets and is easily accessible on foot from nearby areas. You can see it from many parts of the city, making it a practical meeting point and reference location for exploring the surroundings.
The four clock faces on the tower do not always display the same time, giving it a distinctive character. This quirky detail has made it endearing to both visitors and locals, reflecting the informal nature of the city.
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