Delhi is set to offer a brand new perspective on the city with the launch of the Namo Yamuna River Safari. This 40-minute cruise aims to transform a stretch of the river into a recreational hub for residents and tourists alike. Here’s what you need to know.
The Route and Journey
The river cruise will navigate a five- to six-kilometre stretch of the Yamuna River between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur, located upstream of the Wazirabad barrage. This particular section of the river, part of the designated National Waterway 110, has been developed to promote eco-friendly tourism. A complete round trip is designed to last approximately 40 minutes, offering passengers a unique water-level view of the capital's landscape, away from the bustling city streets. Trial runs for the service began in late October 2026, with an official launch planned ahead of the Chhath festival.
Ticket Price and Booking
The proposed fare for the 40-minute cruise experience is set at ₹500 per person. In addition to the ride cost, there may be a nominal premises entry fee of ₹50. Officials have indicated that tickets will be made available for purchase online through the official Delhi Tourism website, ensuring a convenient booking process for the public. The service is expected to operate a minimum of four trips per day, providing ample opportunity for visitors to take the ride.
Onboard Experience and Amenities
The cruise vessels are modern, air-conditioned boats that are no more than two years old. Each boat can accommodate a maximum of 30 passengers per trip. In line with the project's focus on sustainability, the boats are reported to be electric-solar hybrids. Passenger safety and comfort are priorities, with each vessel equipped with safety jackets and a public announcement system. To protect the river's ecosystem, the boats also feature inboard bio-toilets, which ensure zero waste discharge into the water.
A Collaborative Project
The Namo Yamuna River Safari is the result of a coordinated effort between several government bodies. An agreement was signed in March 2025 between the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and various Delhi government agencies, including the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), and the tourism department, to develop cruise tourism on this stretch. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra inspected the trial runs, highlighting the project's potential to become a beautiful picnic spot for families. The initiative is seen as a major step in promoting river-based tourism and creating new recreational spaces in the capital.
Future Development and Vision
This river cruise is part of a larger vision to develop the Yamuna riverfront into a comprehensive tourism and recreation destination. According to officials, future plans for the area include the development of a restaurant, a food park, a dedicated children's zone, and even a musical fountain. There is also talk of introducing water sports facilities to further enhance the location's appeal. The project aims not only to provide a new leisure activity for Delhiites but also to foster a stronger connection with the river and boost local employment opportunities, all while adhering to environmental guidelines.
