Delhi Tourism Plan 2025: Yamuna cruise, Chhath Ghat and a heritage circuit to transform the capital

Delhi’s New Tourism Makeover Plan: Cruise the Yamuna, Explore Chhath Ghat, and Discover the Heritage Circuit (Image: Unsplash)

Delhi is set for a major tourism makeover. On Independence Day, August 15, 2025, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta unveiled ambitious plans to position the city as a global cultural hotspot. The new initiatives include a scenic Yamuna Cruise, a sprawling 12-kilometre Chhath Ghat along the sacred river, and a comprehensive heritage circuit linking Delhi’s most iconic landmarks.

Together, these projects aim to attract both domestic and international travelers by blending history, culture, and green development. Improved roads, modern facilities, and thoughtfully curated experiences promise a sustainable tourism model that highlights Delhi’s rich heritage while offering modern comforts.

Yamuna Cruise: A Floating Adventure Through Delhi

The star attraction of the 2025 tourism plan is the Yamuna Cruise. This 12-kilometer river journey offers travelers a unique perspective of the capital, floating past historical monuments, vibrant cultural hubs, and the city skyline. From the deck, visitors can admire landmarks such as the Red Fort, and Akshardham Temple, experiencing Delhi’s past and present from a tranquil, scenic vantage point.

The cruise is more than sightseeing; it promotes eco-friendly travel, providing a calm escape from busy city roads. By highlighting the Yamuna’s charm, the project emphasizes Delhi’s commitment to sustainable tourism and riverfront revitalization.

Chhath Ghat: Tradition Meets Modern Pilgrimage Facilities

The new 12-km Chhath Ghat on the Yamuna banks aims to ease pilgrimage travel during Chhath Puja and other major festivals. For decades, devotees faced a lack of proper facilities along the river, making rituals challenging during peak season. The revamped ghat will feature clean, well-lit spaces, seating, and drinking water stations, ensuring a safe and pleasant experience for all visitors.

Beyond serving religious needs, the Chhath Ghat is designed to attract tourism throughout the year, combining cultural reverence with scenic riverfront charm. This initiative is expected to transform the Yamuna into a lively hub of faith, culture, and leisure.

Heritage Circuit: Delhi’s History in One Seamless Route

Delhi’s tourism master plan also includes a heritage circuit connecting the city’s cultural gems. Visitors can explore Red Fort, India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, Lotus Temple, and other historic sites in a smooth, curated route. The circuit is designed for convenience and accessibility, encouraging tourists to experience both popular and lesser-known landmarks while boosting footfall to surrounding local markets.

By integrating heritage sites into a cohesive tourism loop, the city preserves its legacy while promoting sustainable travel practices. Local communities, artisans, and vendors benefit from increased tourist engagement, making the plan a win-win for both culture and economy.

A Vision for Sustainable, Inclusive Tourism

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta emphasized the importance of citizen participation alongside government efforts. She encouraged Delhiites to contribute to a cleaner, greener city through initiatives like tree planting and reducing litter. These steps align with the broader vision of integrating eco-conscious travel with heritage tourism.

Alongside the tourism push, the CM highlighted healthcare and infrastructure improvements, such as 1,100 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, upgraded hospitals, and advanced medical facilities, making the city safer and more welcoming for travelers.

Why Delhi’s Tourism Makeover Matters

With the launch of the Yamuna Cruise, Chhath Ghat, and heritage circuit, Delhi is set to redefine its travel appeal. The initiatives combine scenic riverfront experiences, spiritual and cultural immersion, and state-of-the-art infrastructure, offering a fresh way to explore the city. By balancing heritage preservation with modern development, Delhi aims to become a must-visit destination for travelers from across India and the globe.

Whether you’re drawn to historic forts, serene river views, or vibrant cultural festivals, Delhi’s new tourism landscape promises an unforgettable experience—one that celebrates the city’s past while embracing its future.

(With inputs from PTI)