A Guide To Rajabai Clock Tower, Mumbai

Things to do / highlights

Admire the Neo-Gothic architecture of the tower

Though originally constructed in 1878, Rajabai Clock Tower was closed down to the public in 2013 for renovation work. It underwent an expensive and extensive renovation before reopening in 2015. The tower is modelled after Big Ben of London and has a Neo-Gothic architecture that is a gorgeous blend of classic Gothic and Venetian styles. The clock tower is 280 feet (85 metres) tall, towering above the popular Oval Maidan of south Mumbai and facing other art deco buildings in the area. It has been declared a Grade I heritage structure by city authorities and is counted amongst the buildings forming The Victorian and Art Deco Ensemble of Mumbai, a World Heritage Site since 2018. Visitors can admire the tower from the street or go to the grounds of the University of Mumbai campus for a closer look.

Marvel at the sculptures and carvings on the tower

Intricate and beautiful sculptures can be seen on the exterior surface of the Rajabai Clock Tower. These are said to have been created in conjunction with local Indian craftsmen and the students of Mumbai’s famous art college, JJ School of Art, under the supervision of the art teacher, Sir Lockwood Kipling. There are 24 beautiful and intricately carved statues on the exterior of the tower, which are believed to denote various castes of India. Fine carvings of indigenous wildlife, flowers and plants can also be seen on the balconies of the tower as well as the arches and ceilings. Though visitors are not permitted inside the tower, it is said to have the most beautiful stained glass windows in the city.

Travelers tips

No entry to the tower's interiors

The general public is not allowed to enter the tower. Since the tower is located within the University of Mumbai campus, entry to the interior areas is restricted. Though immensely beautiful, the interiors are apparently used for official work and only the exterior campus grounds are open to the public.

Time your visit

Early mornings are the best times to visit the tower since the crowds are quite less at that time. Evenings in Mumbai are cool and also make for a great time to see the tower. Visiting in the summer months (March - May) is not advisable since there is increased humidity in the air due to the tower’s proximity to the sea, which could make visitors quite uncomfortable.

How to get there

Public transport

Churchgate Station on the Western Railway line is the closest train station to Rajabai Clock Tower. Visitors can take a leisurely 10-minute walk to the University of Mumbai campus from the station or take a local BEST bus or hire a taxi. Alternatively, you can even take a local BEST bus from several locations in the city to reach the tower.

Taxis or ride-hailing apps

Local taxis are easily available from the nearest train station or anywhere else in the city to take you to Rajabai Clock Tower. You can even hail an Uber or Ola car to reach the tower.

Private vehicles

You can drive your own car or motorbike or rental vehicles to reach the tower. Since it is located in a very popular area of south Mumbai, driving directions to the tower is easily available.

Parking information

Finding a parking spot close to the tower may be a little difficult. Parking is available for both motorbikes and cars but at a little distance from the tower.

Rajabai Clock Tower information

Rajabai Clock Tower

Address: Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil Marg, Mantralaya, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400032, India

Opening hours: 9am - 10:45pm (daily)

Cost: Free

Department of tourism: Visit Maharashtra