The tower is located at Tambatan Diraja (The Royal Pier), a site deeply rooted in Kelantan's history. For over 160 years, since the founding of Kota Bharu as the state capital in 1844, this area served as the primary royal boarding platform for rulers and dignitaries traveling by boat, which was then the most reliable mode of transport.
In the modern era, the site was revitalized with the construction of the observation tower to serve as a "portal" into the cultural tapestry of the region. Today, while the pier remains a functional space for river crossings and a focal point for monitoring river levels during the monsoon season, the tower has become an iconic tourism landmark. It symbolizes the blend of Kota Bharu's maritime heritage and its growth as a modern cultural hub.