The Route: Wazirabad Upstream
The cruise operates on a specific, cleaner stretch of the Yamuna River. The journey covers a round-trip route of approximately five to six kilometres between Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur in northeast Delhi. This area is located upstream of the Wazirabad Barrage,
a section known for having comparatively better water quality than the heavily polluted downstream portions of the river in the capital. The entire boat ride is designed to last between 35 and 45 minutes, offering a scenic and tranquil experience away from the city's hustle. The service was inaugurated on November 10, 2026, by Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.
The Onboard Experience
The service has been launched with a custom-built, eco-friendly electric vessel. This boat has a capacity for 30 passengers. It features two decks: a lower, air-conditioned cabin with cushioned seats and round windows, and an open-air upper deck with a canopy for shade. This design ensures comfort for visitors throughout the year. Onboard amenities include provisions for food and music, aiming to provide a leisure experience comparable to those in coastal tourist destinations. The vessel is also equipped with safety features like life jackets and a public announcement system. A second boat of the same capacity is expected to be added to the fleet by early 2027.
Tickets and Timings
A ticket for the 40-minute cruise costs INR 500 per person. Tickets can be booked online through the official Delhi Tourism website. The service is planned to operate daily, with operating hours expected to be from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. However, the cruise will remain closed during the monsoon season, specifically from July 1 to September 30 each year. For those who want to visit the newly developed riverfront area at Sonia Vihar without taking the boat ride, there is an entry fee of INR 50.
A Hub for Recreation
This project is more than just a boat ride; it is part of a larger plan to create an integrated recreational hub on the river's banks. The terminal at Sonia Vihar has been developed with floating jetties, parking, and waiting areas. The adjacent recreational zone features a food court, retail shops, and a children's play area with activities like gaming, rock climbing, and skating. A major attraction is a musical fountain that hosts a daily light-and-sound show in the evening. This show depicts mythological stories associated with the Yamuna river, including tales of Lord Krishna.
The Bigger Picture
The Namo Yamuna River Safari is a key part of a broader push to develop inland waterways for tourism and transport. The Yamuna is designated as National Waterway-110, and this project marks the first step in utilising it for organised recreational tourism in Delhi. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) and various Delhi government agencies, including the DDA and Delhi Tourism. By focusing on the cleaner, upstream section of the river, authorities aim to reconnect residents with the Yamuna's natural environment and cultural significance, creating a new destination for families and tourists. The use of electric vessels also underscores a commitment to sustainable, eco-friendly tourism.
