Lahori Gate Museum to Revive Chandni Chowk's Architectural and Cultural Heritage by 2026

New Delhi: The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), in collaboration with Space Architect Firm, is set to transform the historic Lahori Gate into a museum dedicated to the built and cultural heritage of Chandni Chowk. Scheduled for completion in 2026, the museum aims to offer an immersive architectural and experiential journey through one of Old Delhi’s most iconic urban precincts.

A Heritage-Focused Urban Revitalization

The museum will showcase scaled architectural models and curated exhibits reflecting landmarks such as the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, the historic clock tower (Ghanta Ghar), Town Hall, traditional havelis, and religious sites representing Chandni Chowk’s pluralistic heritage. The initiative is positioned as a gateway for visitors and tourists to understand the socio-cultural and spatial dynamics of the Chandni Chowk area.

source: Chandni chowk

Architectural Detailing and Curatorial Vision

Designed by Space Architect Firm, led by Kapil Agarwal — known for delivering heritage-focused civic projects — the museum’s layout begins with a 10x10-foot model of Old Delhi placed at the ground-floor entrance. Interior spaces will be furnished with traditional design elements such as brass-cased wooden cabinets, carved stone counters, and replicas of ornate doors from Naughara Gali to recreate the texture of Old Delhi's architectural richness.

Exhibits on Mobility, Daily Life, and Built Fabric

The transport section will trace the evolution of local mobility — from bullock carts to electric rickshaws — through scale models. A Red Fort gallery will recreate elements of the monument’s red sandstone façade alongside interpretive historical displays. Additional curated zones include:

• A Khari Baoli exhibit showcasing Asia’s largest spice market

• A gallery celebrating religious and cultural diversity

• Haveli-themed displays including a period bedroom with vintage furnishings, patterned wallpaper, and geometric tile cladding

• An immersive room capturing the tradition of kabootarbazi (pigeon flying), with suspended silhouettes and skyline-inspired murals

Amenities and Cultural Integration

Two cafeterias — one indoors and another outdoors — will provide visitors with refreshment options within the heritage setting. A literature corner, inspired by the area's poetic legacy, will house a reading zone with a library cabinet featuring works linked to Old Delhi’s literary past.

From Dilapidation to Cultural Landmark

The museum site, located at Vasudev Captain Chowk (at the intersection of GB Road, Naya Bazar, and Khari Baoli), was previously occupied by a neglected municipal dispensary. Restoration efforts began in the early 2000s with phased interventions. The current redevelopment, backed by renewed support and funding, is being executed by MCD with a focus on authenticity and contextual relevance.

The Lahori Gate Museum stands as a vital example of adaptive reuse and urban cultural revival, blending architectural heritage with educational and experiential storytelling. Once completed, it is expected to become a landmark destination for both locals and heritage tourism in Delhi.

Stay tuned for more updates on India’s heritage revival projects.

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