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The GhantaGhar (घन्टाघर) is the first public tower clock in Nepal, situated at the heart of the capital city of Kathmandu (near to Trichandra College). It lies in front of Rani Pokhari. It was built by Rana Prime Minister Bir Shumsher. The original clock tower was designed after Big Ben of London, as Western influence crept into Nepalese architecture during the Rana era. The GhantaGhar that stands today was rebuilt after the 1990 BS earthquake, standing on the site of the original after the old tower was destroyed by the earthquake.
Etymology
The word GhantaGhar is made up of two words, "Ghanta" and "Ghar". The words "Ghanta" and "Ghar" in Nepali mean "Hour" and "House" in English respectively. And thus the word "GhantaGhar" means the house that is used for looking hours or time.
There is also another GhantaGhar in Birgunj, which was made by the help of Japanese child student's donation.