The Golghar, Patna

The Gol Ghar

Description : The Golghar or Gol Ghar ("Round House") is a wonderful granary located at west of Gandhi Maidan, Patna (The Capital of Bihar State), India. It was built in 1786 by Captain John Garstin for the purpose of storing grains for the British Army. The building has a foundation of 125 m, and a height of 29 m. and pillar-less with a wall of thickness of 3.6 m at the base. One can climb atop the Golghar through the 145 steps of its spiral stairway around the monument.

The spiral staircase was designed so as to facilitate the passage of the coolies, who had to carry grain-bags up one flight, deliver their load through a hole at the top, and descend the other stairs.The top of the Golghar presents a wonderful panoramic view of the city and the Ganges flowing nearby. At the time of its construction, it was the tallest building in Patna.

One interesting fact about the Golghar is that never it been filled to its maximum capacity and there are no plans in future too. The reason for this is that due to oversight while construction of the Golghar, the doors were designed to open inside. Thus, if it is filled to its maximum capacity, then the doors will not open.

Also See the Wonderful Monument of India The Taj Mahal.