
Old City Shahganj-Begumpura
Explore the historic Shahganj Clock Tower and vibrant markets of Old City Shahganj-Begumpura, a hub of culture and commerce.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant cultural immersion

Old City Shahganj-Begumpura
Best Time
Vibrant cultural immersion

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the historic Shahganj Clock Tower and vibrant markets of Old City Shahganj-Begumpura, a hub of culture and commerce.
"A historical monument and bustling bazaar, offering a glimpse into the city's past and present."

👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be walking a lot through markets and lanes. Prioritize comfort to explore fully!
🍲 Taste the Local Flavors
Don't miss out on street food! Try local delicacies from vendors in Shahganj and Begumpura.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shahganj Clock Tower
Shahganj Market
A majestic, recently renovated clock tower, a historical landmark visible from afar. A testament to Nizamshahi era architecture.

Vibrant Market Streets
Begumpura and Shahganj
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of traditional bazaars, offering everything from local crafts to delicious street food.

Festival Celebrations
Various locations within the Old City
Experience the electric energy of festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Bonalu, with colorful decorations and lively processions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Old City Shahganj-Begumpura
Navigating the Old City's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be walking a lot through markets and lanes. Prioritize comfort to explore fully!
🍲 Taste the Local Flavors
Don't miss out on street food! Try local delicacies from vendors in Shahganj and Begumpura.
⏰ Clock Tower Views
The Shahganj Clock Tower is a great photo op, especially when lit up.
🎉 Festival Vibes
Visiting during Ganesh Chaturthi or Bonalu offers a unique, lively experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
You'll be walking a lot through markets and lanes. Prioritize comfort to explore fully!
🍲 Taste the Local Flavors
Don't miss out on street food! Try local delicacies from vendors in Shahganj and Begumpura.
⏰ Clock Tower Views
The Shahganj Clock Tower is a great photo op, especially when lit up.
🎉 Festival Vibes
Visiting during Ganesh Chaturthi or Bonalu offers a unique, lively experience.
🚶♂️ Explore Hidden Lanes
Wander off the main paths to discover charming nooks and local life.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Old City Shahganj-Begumpura for its historical charm, particularly the Shahganj Clock Tower, and the vibrant, bustling markets. The area offers a rich cultural experience and delicious street food. However, some reviews mention a state of neglect for the historical monument and challenges with encroachments, suggesting a need for better maintenance.
"Last week, I visited this clock tower after more than 25 years and was delighted to see it was still standing tall basking in the glory of the morning sun in the old town Aurangabad.
The clock tower is humongous and is located in the middle of the Shahaganj market. The newly painted tower is seen from far away. As a school kid without a wristwatch, I gazed at the tower to tell the time of the day from all 4 sides.
It was recently renovated and the market surrounding it has also got an uplift. The clock was previously accessible via a staircase or a ladder which is closed now.
♿ Accessibility is limited to the compound wall gates.
The elevator is not accessible."
Tushar Suradkar
"The Shahganj Clock Tower was constructed between May 3rd 1901 to Oct 30th 1906 during the period of the 6th Nizam Mehboob Ali Pasha to celebrate his Silver Jubilee from 1899.
To support the every DAY bazaar (Shah Bazaar) during Nizamshahi period, The clock Tower was constructed. The everday bazaar BUSINESS used to end over by 6'o Clock at the strike of clock tower.
It is a fine example of Neurotic style of Architecture.
Now a part of Aurangabad HERITAGE STRUCTURES but still faces a state of neglect due to enchroments all around.
Needs a serious maintainance and repairs to preserve the historical monument"
saurabh p choudhary
"One of the starting infrastructure of old city is old as the city is.
This clock tower is not in a working conditions in today's date.
This the central attractions of the old city and equally attractive by its own uniqueness and design.
But for now the condition is poor of the tower and not maintain by the municipality.
Hope the remaining beautiful structure will get maintained and get it to its original shine soon by the govt."
Abrar Yar Khan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old City is accessible by local buses and auto-rickshaws from most parts of Aurangabad. If you're coming from outside the city, you'll likely arrive at Aurangabad Airport (IXU) or the Aurangabad railway station, from where you can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Parking can be challenging in the narrow lanes of the Old City. It's best to park on the outskirts of the main market areas and explore on foot.
Walking is the most immersive way to experience the Old City. For longer distances within the area, auto-rickshaws are readily available and affordable.
The Shahganj Clock Tower is a prominent landmark and a good central point for navigation within the Shahganj market area.
Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Ola are generally available in Aurangabad, but their service within the very narrow lanes of the Old City might be limited. It's often easier to find local auto-rickshaws.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entry tickets required to explore the Old City, its markets, or the Shahganj Clock Tower compound. It's a public area.
The markets in Shahganj and Begumpura typically open in the morning and stay active until late evening. Specific shop timings may vary.
Currently, access to climb the Shahganj Clock Tower is restricted. While it's a beautiful structure to view from the outside, you cannot go inside or up.
Generally, there are no fees for personal photography in the public areas of the Old City. However, if you plan professional shoots, it's advisable to check local regulations.
For vibrant festival experiences like Ganesh Chaturthi or Bonalu, plan your visit during the specific festival dates. Be prepared for larger crowds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Shahganj Clock Tower is a key historical monument. The bustling markets of Shahganj and Begumpura are also major attractions, offering a glimpse into local life and commerce.
You can find a wide variety of goods, including traditional clothing, textiles, jewelry, spices, and local handicrafts in the Shahganj and Begumpura markets.
Constructed between 1901-1906 during the 6th Nizam's Silver Jubilee, it was built to support the daily bazaar business. It's an example of Neurotic style architecture.
During festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and Bonalu, the Old City transforms with vibrant decorations, music, and a palpable sense of community celebration.
The Old City is generally safe, but like any bustling market area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Old City is a paradise for street food lovers. Look for local snacks, chaats, and sweets. Many vendors offer authentic regional flavors.
While street food is a highlight, you'll also find small eateries and restaurants offering local Maharashtrian cuisine and other Indian dishes.
Try local delicacies that are popular in Aurangabad. Ask locals for recommendations for the best street food stalls or small eateries.
It's generally safe to eat street food if you choose vendors that appear clean and are popular with locals. Look for freshly prepared items.
Street food vendors are usually available from late morning through the evening. Restaurants may have more standard lunch and dinner hours.
📸 📸 Photography
The Shahganj Clock Tower, especially when lit, is a prime spot. The vibrant market scenes, colorful stalls, and festival decorations also make for great photos.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds for capturing the Clock Tower and market awakening. Evenings can be atmospheric with market lights.
Personal photography is generally allowed. However, always be respectful of people's privacy and ask permission before taking close-up shots of individuals.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide market scenes and details. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is also excellent.
Absolutely! Modern smartphones are capable of capturing stunning photos and videos, especially with good lighting and composition.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must for everyone. Consider visiting during less crowded times if possible, or focus on specific market areas to avoid overwhelming younger children. The vibrant festival celebrations, if timed right, can be particularly exciting for kids.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Bargaining is expected in the markets, so don't be afraid to negotiate prices. Transportation within the area via auto-rickshaws is also quite economical. This area offers a rich cultural experience without a hefty price tag.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to capture the essence of local life, from vendors at work to shoppers browsing. If you're visiting during a festival, the elaborate decorations and lively processions are a photographer's dream. Remember to be respectful and ask permission when photographing individuals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Shahganj Clock Tower: A Historical Beacon
Although recently renovated and repainted, giving it a fresh look visible from afar, the tower's internal access is currently limited. While it was once accessible via stairs or a ladder, these are now closed. The elevator is also not operational for public use. Despite facing some neglect due to encroachments, it remains a central attraction and a symbol of Old Aurangabad's heritage.
Visitors can admire its grandeur from the surrounding compound. The hope among locals and visitors alike is for continued maintenance and preservation efforts to ensure this historical structure retains its original shine and continues to tell the time for generations to come.
Experiencing the Bustling Markets
Exploring these markets is an experience in itself. The narrow lanes are packed with vendors, each showcasing their wares. It's a fantastic place to practice your bargaining skills and immerse yourself in the local culture. The energy is infectious, especially during peak hours.
Beyond shopping, the markets are also a hub for delicious street food. Don't hesitate to sample local snacks and delicacies from the numerous food stalls. It's a culinary adventure that complements the shopping experience perfectly.
Festivals: A Spectacle of Culture
During Ganesh Chaturthi, you'll witness the installation of large Ganesh idols, accompanied by devotional music and processions. Bonalu, a traditional Telangana festival, involves women offering 'bonam' (a pot of cooked rice and jaggery) to the Goddess Mahankali, often featuring vibrant parades and cultural performances.
These festivals offer a unique opportunity to witness the deep-rooted traditions and community spirit of the Old City. The energy is palpable, making it a memorable time to visit for those seeking an authentic cultural immersion.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit