Chinnakada Clock Tower

The Chinnakada Clock Tower is a landmark in the city of Kollam, Kerala, located in the heart of the city. The clock tower is a tall structure with a clock at the top and is considered an essential symbol of the city’s history and cultural heritage. The Chinnakada Clock Tower is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike and is a must-visit location for anyone interested in the past and culture of Kollam. The clock tower boasts four clocks facing each direction of the city, imported from Kolkata. It stands tall in the center of the town, constructed during British rule in honor of K G Parameshwaran Pillai, the former Chairman of the Kollam Municipality.

The Chinnakada Clock Tower holds cultural and historical significance in the city of Kollam. The clock tower in the former Travancore state was the first of its kind and has since become a well-known symbol of the city, serving as an unofficial emblem and recognizable landmark. The tower represents the city’s rich heritage and serves as a symbol of its growth and development over the years. In addition to its cultural and historical importance, the Chinnakada Clock Tower is also significant because of its strategic location at the heart of the city. The tower provides a convenient reference point for residents and visitors, making it easier for them to navigate the city and find their way to other nearby landmarks and attractions. Overall, the Chinnakada Clock Tower is a symbol of the city’s cultural and historical legacy and an important part of Kollam’s identity.

Although the Chinnakada Clock Tower itself is not open for public access, there are several things you can do in the surrounding area to make the most of your visit:

• Explore the local market: The Chinnakada area is known for its bustling market, where you can browse a variety of shops and stalls selling everything from spices to textiles.
• Visit nearby temples: There are several temples in the vicinity of the clock tower, including Sri Krishna Temple and the Ayyappan Temple, which are popular among locals and visitors alike.
• Enjoy local street food: The area around the Chinnakada Clock Tower is also famous for its street food, with a wide variety of local specialties available.
• Take a stroll through the city: The clock tower is located in the heart of Kollam, making it a convenient starting point for a walk around the city. You can explore the city’s streets and alleys, take in the sights, and soak up the local atmosphere.
• Visit nearby attractions: The Chinnakada Clock Tower is close to several other landmarks and attractions, including the Kollam Beach, the Mahatma Gandhi Park, and the Thirumullavaram Beach.

Overall, there are plenty of things to see and do in the area surrounding the Chinnakada Clock Tower, making it a great place to visit for anyone interested in experiencing the local culture and history of Kollam.

visitors are not allowed inside the tower however visitors can admire the clock tower from the ground. There is a small parking space available adjacent to the clock tower that can accommodate enough vehicles, the corporation charges a fee of Rs 20 for the parking. The Chinnakada clock tower is located just 500 meters away from the Kollam Junction railway station and 2.5 kilometers away from the British Residency. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport which is located 66 kilometers away. The best mode of transportation to visit the Chinnakada Clock Tower is by train as the Kollam railway station is situated at a walkable distance.

[Image source | CC BY-SA 4.0]