Ali Amjad's Clock

Ali Amjad's Clock is a historic monument in Sylhet. Built in the nineteenth century, this clock is located in Chandni ghat beside the Keen Bridge. It is a large clock erected on the top of a house. This historic monument of Sylhet is now in a dead-lock condition due to lack of proper maintenance. However, it is still a great attraction for the tourists visiting Sylhet.

The clock was made in 1874 when Mr. North Brook, the then Governor of North America visited Sylhet. This clock was made by Ali Amjad's estate fund to honor him. Therefore the clock is known as Ali Amjad's Clock.

The clock's diameter is two and a half feet and the clock hands are about two feet long. When there was no clock in this region, people used to guess the time according to the position of the sun. So the construction of the clock was very useful for the people of that time. During that time, people used to work according to the time of the clock at the entrance of the city. The clock bell could be heard from far beyond the city.

During the War of Liberation in 1971, this ancient Clock house was destroyed by the Pakistan army. After independence, Sylhet municipality reactivated the clock by repairing it, but soon after the clock was stopped. In 1987 it was repaired and restored. Since then the clock has been repaired and modified many times. Lastly, in 2011, Sylhet City Corporation repaired the clock again and it is now functioning properly. This is a must-visit monument in Sylhet for tourists interested in history.

Why Visit Ali Amjad's Clock

• Historical Significance: The oldest clock tower in Bangladesh.
• Architectural Marvel: A fine example of British-era architecture.
• Iconic Landmark: A symbol of Sylhet's rich heritage.
• Scenic Location: Situated on the picturesque banks of the Surma River.
• Cultural Hub: Often the center of local cultural activities and gatherings.

Best Time to Visit

Ali Amjad's Clock can be visited year-round. However, the winter months from November to February are particularly pleasant for outdoor sightseeing.

How to Get There

• By Road: Easily accessible by car or local transport within Sylhet city.
• By Train: Take a train to Sylhet Railway Station, then travel by local transport to the clock tower.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Osmani International Airport in Sylhet; from there, take local transport to the clock tower.

Tips for Visitors

• Photograph the Clock: Capture the historic clock and its surroundings.
• Explore the Area: Walk around the banks of the Surma River.
• Learn the History: Engage with locals or guides to learn more about the clock's history.
• Visit Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with nearby historical sites and landmarks.
• Respect the Site: Maintain cleanliness and respect the cultural significance of the site.

Distances from Major Cities

• Dhaka: 240 km
• Chittagong: 320 km
• Khulna: 440 km
• Barisal: 390 km
• Rangpur: 310 km
• Rajshahi: 300 km

In conclusion, Ali Amjad's Clock is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those looking to explore the cultural heritage of Sylhet, offering a glimpse into the city's past and its enduring charm.