iSee Bhadra Fort

A colossal red granite royal citadel, palace and plaza all in one

When in 1915 electricity was introduced to the city, Bhadra Clock was the first to be connected. Even today, the electricity meter of the clock still holds serial number 1.

Royal fortress


This tall tower of red granite is the legacy of Sultan Ahmed Shah, who gave Ahmedabad its name. The two fort towers and gates are the only pieces remaining of what once was a vast royal compound spread across 40 acres that included gardens and a private mosque. Attached to the Bhadra Fort is a 17th Century palace built by one of Sultan Ahmed’s successors Azam Khan.


British clocktower


The striking clock tower is not as old as the rest of the Fort. The clock was imported from London by the British in 1849. Back in those days when few had watches or clocks, such clock towers were very popular. At night the clock tower was illuminated by kerosene lamps and when in 1915 electricity was introduced to the city, Bhadra Clock was the first to be connected. Even today, the electricity meter of the clock still holds serial number 1.


Lock your worries away

Inside of the fort is a small window with lots of locks. This is where Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani dargah is buried. Legend has it that if you pray here all your problems will go away. For every problem, there is a lock, and once resolved the lock will open and be removed.

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