What is Ghanta Ghar Sukkur?

Ghanta Ghar Sukkur, also known as the Sunderdas Dayomal Tower or Clock Tower, is a historic landmark in Sukkur, Sindh, Pakistan. It is a 90-foot tall octagonal clock tower built in 1937 as a memorial to Seth Sunderdas and Seth Dayomal.

When was Ghanta Ghar Sukkur built?

The foundation stone was laid on January 7, 1937, and it was completed and inaugurated on October 30, 1937.

Who built Ghanta Ghar Sukkur and why?

It was constructed by the Sunder Shevak Sabha with funding from Seth Wadhumal Nibhaomal in memory of his deceased brothers, Seth Sunderdas and Seth Dayomal. Some sources link it to the Silver Jubilee of King George V.

Is Ghanta Ghar Sukkur open to the public?

Yes, it is open to the public and accessible for free. It is a prominent landmark in a bustling area.

What are some visiting tips for Ghanta Ghar Sukkur?

Start from Ghanta Ghar Bazaar, wear comfortable shoes, visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, combine with nearby attractions like the Minaret of Masoom Shah, and stay hydrated.

Ghanta Ghar Sukkur: The Historic Sunderdas Dayomal Tower

Q: Where is Ghanta Ghar Sukkur located?

It is located in the central part of Sukkur, below the Minaret of Masoom Shah, outside the Victoria Market on Chosul Road. GPS coordinates: 27.7052° N, 68.8587° E.

Q: What is the best time to visit Ghanta Ghar Sukkur?

The best time is during the winter months from October to March, when the weather is mild. Avoid summer due to extreme heat.

Nestled in the heart of Sukkur, Sindh, Pakistan, stands the majestic Ghanta Ghar, ( Sindhi:گهنٽا گهر Urdu: گھنٹہ گھر ) also affectionately known as the Sunderdas Dayomal Tower or Clock Tower. This historical landmark serves as a testament to the city's rich past and architectural prowess. Built in the 1930s, it continues to be a focal point for locals and tourists alike, symbolizing the blend of community spirit and colonial-era influences in Sindh.

Vintage 1940 photograph of Sukkur Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar), taken before Pakistan’s independence.

Sukkur Clock Tower, Ghanta Ghar Sukkur, Sukkur history 1940, Sindh heritage, pre-independence Pakistan, vintage Sukkur photo

Location and Architectural Features

The Ghanta Ghar is strategically located in the central part of Sukkur, just below the famous Minaret of Masoom Shah, outside the Victoria Market on Chosul Road. This positioning makes it easily accessible and a prominent feature in the bustling urban landscape. Standing at an impressive height of 90 feet, the tower tapers to a width of 35 feet at its base. Its octagonal shape adds to its unique aesthetic, with rooms constructed at the lower levels for functional purposes.

Historic Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) in Sukkur, Sindh, Pakistan a landmark of civic heritage.

Ghanta Ghar Sukkur

History and Construction

The tower was constructed in 1937 by the Sunder Shewak Sabha, a local social organization, with funding from Seth Vadhumal Nebhaumal. It was built in loving memory of his deceased brothers, Seth Sunderdas and Seth Dayomal. The foundation stone was laid on January 7, 1937, by Diwan Bahadur Issarsingh Tiloksing, the President of the Sukkur Municipality at the time.

Portrait of Diwan Bahadur Issardas Tiloksingh, who laid the foundation stone of Sukkur’s Ghanta Ghar and served as a prominent municipal leader and public prosecutor in colonial Sindh.

Diwan Bahadur Issardas Tiloksingh, a distinguished lawyer and Public Prosecutor of Jacobabad District, laid the foundation stone of Sukkur’s Ghanta Ghar. Known for his aristocratic demeanor, French-cut beard, and reserved public style, he sympathized with the Congress movement but maintained favor with British authorities. He succeeded Bhojsingh as Sukkur’s Municipal President through strategic leadership.

Portrait of Seth Deyomal Nebhayo Mal, whose generous funding led to the construction of Sukkur’s Ghanta Ghar.

Seth Deyomal Nebhayo Mal, the generous philanthropist whose financial support made possible the construction of Sukkur’s iconic Ghanta Ghar a lasting symbol of civic pride and heritage in Sindh.

Commemorative plaque marking the 1937 foundation and opening of a municipal building in Sukkur, Sindh.

Completion of the tower occurred on October 30, 1937, and it was officially inaugurated by the then Collector of Sukkur, Diwan Udharam Mirchandani. The total cost of construction amounted to 10,000 rupees, a significant sum that reflected the dedication to honoring the memory of the brothers.

Portrait of Diwan Udharam Mirchandani, Collector of Sukkur, dated October 30, 1937.

Portrait of Diwan Udharam Mirchandani, who served as Collector of Sukkur on 30 October 1937

Significance and Legacy

Today, the Ghanta Ghar remains an enduring symbol of Sukkur's heritage. Despite facing challenges like the theft of its clocks in 1994, it continues to tick away, reminding passersby of the city's vibrant history. Visitors often admire its structure while exploring nearby attractions, making it a must-visit for those interested in Sindh's cultural landmarks.

For those planning a trip, the tower is open to the public, and its central location makes it ideal for a quick historical detour. Whether you're a history buff or a casual traveler, the Sunderdas Dayomal Tower offers a glimpse into the past that's both educational and inspiring.

Best Time to Visit for Tourists

The best time to visit Ghanta Ghar Sukkur is during the winter months from October to March, when the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ideal for sightseeing. Avoid the summer months (May to July) due to extreme heat often exceeding 45°C. For tourists from the USA, this period aligns well with cooler climates, making exploration comfortable.

Visiting Tips

Start your visit from the Ghanta Ghar Bazaar for a vibrant shopping experience and to immerse in local culture.
Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful of locals and avoid disrupting traffic in the busy area.
Wear comfortable shoes as the site is in a bustling market; visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Combine your trip with nearby attractions like the Minaret of Masoom Shah or Sukkur Barrage for a full day of exploration.
Stay hydrated and use sunscreen, especially outside winter months.