Cryptic Crossword (Hindustan Times)
Rate itHindustan Times' numbered daily cryptic crossword, set by a rotating panel of pseudonymous setters.
on hindustantimes.com
The Hindustan Times Cryptic Crossword is a free online cryptic puzzle published six days a week on HT Games. Each puzzle has a running number and a setter's pseudonym, and the page also lets you go back to earlier numbers.
About Cryptic Crossword (Hindustan Times)
Hindustan Times runs a games section on its website, and its cryptic crossword is the most demanding puzzle there. Each puzzle has a running number (Cryptic 687 on 20 October 2026) and is credited to a setter under a pseudonym, such as Enigmaya, Bone Setter or ThinkerBelle, so regular solvers come to know each setter's style.
The grid is the British-style 15x15 with black squares in a regular pattern. Every clue has a straight definition at one end and wordplay for the same answer: anagrams, hidden words, charades, homophones and Spoonerisms, with the letter count in brackets. The current clue shows in a bar above the grid, a timer runs at the top, and the Assist menu checks or reveals letters, words or the whole grid. You can also print the puzzle.
A new cryptic comes out at 5am India time six days a week, Monday to Saturday, and earlier numbers stay playable from the list on the page. It is free to play in the browser, with ads on the page. It suits solvers who already enjoy British cryptics and want a daily one with an Indian flavour in some clues.
How to play Cryptic Crossword (Hindustan Times)
- Open the Cryptic Crossword on Hindustan Times Games, or pick an earlier number from the list.
- Choose a clue; its squares light up in the grid and the clue shows above it.
- Split the clue into its definition and its wordplay, and work out the answer that fits both and the letter count.
- Type the answer into the grid; crossing letters help with the harder clues.
- Use Assist to check or reveal letters if you are stuck, or print the grid to solve on paper.
Tips
- Look for anagram indicators such as crushed, regularly or sadly: the letters to rearrange are usually next to them.
- The definition is almost always the first or last word or phrase of the clue.
- Spoonerism clues swap the opening sounds of two words, as in a clue naming Spooner.
Questions
How often is there a new Hindustan Times cryptic?
Six days a week, Monday to Saturday, each with its own number. The new one appears at 5am India Standard Time.
Can I play older puzzles?
Yes, earlier numbers can be opened from the list on the page.
Is it free?
Yes, it is free to play in the browser, with ads on the page.
Ratings and reviews
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