Darjeeling’s iconic Capital Hall and Clock Tower, longstanding emblems of British-era architecture, are set to regain their lost grandeur through a major restoration project initiated by the Darjeeling Municipality.
Often dubbed the “Queen of the Hills”, the town occupies a significant place in India’s colonial and cultural history. From the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) to its status as a preferred retreat of the British Raj, the town’s legacy is vast and varied. At its heart stands the Capital Hall, a structure that has borne witness to decades of transformation.
“Beyond its scenic beauty and tea gardens, it is also a repository of history, from the construction of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway to its status as a favoured retreat of the British Raj. At the heart of this hill-town stands the Capital Hall, a structure that has witnessed the evolution of the place through decades of social transformation. One of the aims of the revival project is boosting tourism,” said Dipen Thakuri of the Darjeeling Municipality.
The civic body envisions the building as a cultural complex housing a museum dedicated to the region’s history, particularly highlighting the contributions of the Gorkha community and the DHR. The plan features an art gallery to promote local artists, an exhibit on the DHR in collaboration with the railways, and a skywalk offering panoramic views of Darjeeling and the restored Clock Tower. Additional features include interactive installations, selfie points and architectural storytelling integrated into the illuminated clock face.
Approximately ₹1.5 crore has been sanctioned for the first phase of the project. The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) is expected to extend financial support if required.
“We aim to give tourists a reason to pause and experience the soul of Darjeeling, not just its landscapes. This project will simultaneously boost tourism and generate revenue for the municipality,” Thakuri added.
The Capital Hall’s story began in 1917, when Lord Ronaldshay, then Governor of Bengal, laid its foundation stone atop the former Rhododendron Villa. Completed in 1921 at a cost of ₹2.5 lakh, the hall was partly funded by the Maharaja of Cooch Behar in memory of his father, Maharaja Nripendra Bhup Bahadur. Designed by municipal engineer Morjan under British architect Crouch’s guidance, it served as the administrative epicentre of the hill-town.
The 100-foot Clock Tower, once Darjeeling’s primary timekeeper, was not merely ornamental. During an era when personal watches were rare, a single technician maintained its mechanics. His demise marked the beginning of the tower’s decline.
A fire in 1996 gutted the Capital Hall, heavily damaging the structure and the clock. In 2006, the Rotary Club undertook the clock’s restoration, and it chimed once again on the eve of Independence Day, symbolically bridging past and present.
Also read: Darjeeling launches 50,000‑tree plantation push to save hornbills
The hall’s maintenance has shifted with political changes. During Ajay Edward’s tenure with the Hamro Party, the tower was illuminated. Under the present Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha (BGPM) administration led by Anit Thapa, the project has gained momentum.
The initiative has received widespread acclaim from heritage and tourism experts.
“This initiative was long overdue. Preserving Darjeeling’s heritage will breathe new life into its tourism potential,” said Raj Basu, Secretary-General of the Association for Conservation and Tourism.
Samrat Sanyal, editor of the Himalayan Hospitality Travel and Tour Development Network, noted, “Hill tourism is a niche with deep emotional and historical value. Projects like this tap into that uniqueness and should be further encouraged.”
Rishab Choudhary, Director of DHR, expressed his department’s commitment to the project, particularly in enhancing the visibility of the shared legacy between the railway and the town.
What once stood as a colonial centre of authority is now poised to transform into a vibrant museum and cultural landmark. The revival of the Capital Hall and Clock Tower is as much about safeguarding history as it is about reimagining Darjeeling’s future.
As the sun ascends once more over the Kanchenjunga’s golden horizon, Darjeeling’s timeless tower prepares to chime again, echoing with memories and a renewed sense of identity
Follow us
