Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Embarks on Heritage Restoration Project
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) is set to offer tourists a unique journey back in time with an ambitious plan to restore 14 British-era coaches. This initiative aims to showcase the engineering and craftsmanship of the colonial period, enhancing the iconic mountain railway's appeal.
Restoring British-Era Coaches for Enhanced Tourism
According to DHR director Rishab Choudhary, the railway will repair 14 coaches originally manufactured in Gorakhpur and designed in the British style. Among these, three non-heritage coaches will be specially converted into replicas of 1920s British-era coaches, a design currently absent from the DHR fleet. "At present, we do not have a single coach from the 1920s. By reviving this design, we want to attract more tourists even as we carry on DHR's legacy," Choudhary explained.
The restored coaches will feature distinctive side entrances, unlike modern coaches with end entrances. "After four to five cabins, each coach had independent entry and exit points. This unique layout made these coaches special. We want tourists to experience DHR travel in the British era. Within a year, tourists will be able to enjoy the mountain rail on such coaches," he added, highlighting the historical authenticity of the project.
Introducing 'Wedding on Wheels' Services
In addition to the coach restoration, the DHR plans to launch 'Wedding on Wheels' through its chartered train services. While weddings have been held informally on DHR trains in the past, officials aim to structure this offering more formally. A meeting with stakeholders is scheduled for Thursday to discuss the proposal and finalize the framework.
Choudhary revealed that the plan involves attaching two flat wagons and two coaches for these events. "We are considering partnership with professional wedding planners," he said, indicating a collaborative approach to make this service a reality. This move is expected to diversify DHR's revenue streams while offering a novel venue for celebrations.
Impact on Tourism and Heritage Preservation
The restoration project and new services are poised to boost tourism in Darjeeling by:
- Providing an immersive historical experience with authentic British-era coaches.
- Attracting heritage enthusiasts and tourists seeking unique travel adventures.
- Preserving and promoting the DHR's legacy as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Creating new opportunities for events like weddings, enhancing local economy engagement.
With these initiatives, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway continues to blend tradition with innovation, ensuring its place as a premier tourist destination while honoring its rich historical roots.
