Delhi government unveils plans for rooftop restaurant and Yamuna aarti zone at Sonia Vihar riverfront

The Delhi government has announced an ambitious river tourism project at Sonia Vihar, featuring a modern onshore recreational and cultural facility. Designed to boost river-based tourism and create a vibrant leisure space in the capital, the development blends gastronomy, culture, entertainment, and spirituality along the banks of the Yamuna.

Project Review & Stakeholder Participation

On Thursday, Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra reviewed the project’s progress at the Delhi Secretariat. The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), Delhi Development Authority (DDA), Delhi Jal Board (DJB), and Delhi Tourism & Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC).

The review reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming the Yamuna riverfront into a public attraction, enhancing tourism and community engagement while creating new economic opportunities.

Key Features of the Sonia Vihar Onshore Facility

The river tourism project is designed to serve as a holistic leisure hub equipped with hospitality, cultural, and entertainment offerings. The planned infrastructure includes:

• Rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the Yamuna
• Amphitheatre for cultural and entertainment events
• Dedicated Yamuna Aarti area for spiritual gatherings
• Ticket counters and waiting halls
• Souvenir shops
• Food and play zone for families
• Musical water fountain proposed at the centre of the river

These attractions aim to create a waterfront destination for tourists and residents, offering cultural immersion, dining experiences, and weekend leisure activities.

Boosting River Tourism & Local Economy

The Sonia Vihar initiative aligns with Delhi’s long-term plan to promote river-centric tourism, encourage public engagement with the Yamuna, and build inclusive recreational spaces. Once operational, the destination is expected to become a major attraction for:

• Families & leisure travelers
• Culture and entertainment lovers
• Devotees attending daily Yamuna aarti
• Tourists exploring new experiences within Delhi

The project is poised to elevate the city’s tourism portfolio while generating employment and supporting local businesses through increased footfall.

Outlook

With construction underway and inter-departmental coordination in progress, the Sonia Vihar river tourism hub is set to redefine how Delhi interacts with its riverfront. Featuring modern tourism amenities and a cultural-spiritual experience, the project is expected to emerge as one of the capital’s most visited waterfront destinations once completed.