New Okhla Industrial Development Authority or in short Noida, is one of the burgeoning metropolises in Delhi NCR. From towering apartments to well-maintained residential societies, hundreds of IT companies to broad expressways, parks, shopping malls, and vibrant nightlife, Noida is a thriving urban city in India. Visitors mainly come to Noida for jobs. However, there are several places to visit in Noida, which prove that this ultramodern city can be a tourist hotspot.
Moreover, tourists visiting Delhi should consider a trip to Noida and experience the undeniable charm of this urban space. Here are a few tourist spots in Noida, which you must explore during your NCR trip.
Top Places to Visit in Noida
1. Okhla Bird Sanctuary
Spread across an area of 3.5 square kilometers, Okhla Bird Sanctuary at Okhla barrage over Yamuna River, is a paradise for birdwatchers. With over 300 bird species, most of which are hydrophilic, the sanctuary houses both native and migratory birds.
There is a large lake in the sanctuary, which was created by damming the river. Come with binoculars to admire the rare and critically endangered bird species like white-rumped vultures, Indian vultures, Baer’s Pochard, Saru Crane, Baikal Teal, etc.
2. Rashtriya Dalit prerna Sthal and Green Garden
The memorial, which was established in 2011, is dedicated to the inspirational figures from the Dalit community, who devoted their life to equality and social justice, like B R Ambedkar, former CM of Uttar Pradesh Mayawati, Kashi Ram and more.
Being one of the popular tourist places in Noida, it is visited by 7000 visitors every week. The memorial has a mini museum, monuments, and a green space. It was built over an area of 82 acres of land.
3. Botanical Garden
Noida’s Botanical Garden is a sight to behold for those living in this concrete jungle. The garden is home to a wide variety of regional flora and is filled with lush greenery. The garden was established in 2002 and is maintained by national institutes like Botanical Survey of India and Ministry of Environment and Forest.
The aim behind the garden is to protect endangered and threatened plant species. The most prominent among them are Horsetail, Psilotum Nudum, Green Roses, 250 medicinal plants, etc. It is a perfect place to unwind and relax amidst greenery.
4. Golf Course
A golfer? How about spending some time honing your skills at the Golf Course in Noida? Interestingly, it is located at the spot where the battle of Delhi was fought between the Marathas and British. Hence, it also has a historical monument to commemorate the forces of both sides.
The Golf Course established in 1989 over a 97 acre of land. It has a swimming pool, a billiard room, a gym, a coffee shop, several restaurants, a bar, a pub, and plenty of spaces to organize various events. Moreover, it has its own metro station ‘Golf Course’ on Delhi Metro’s Blue line.
5. Noida Haat
Interested in shopping for some Indian handicrafts products from various Indian states? Just like Delhi’s Dilli Haat in INA, Noida Haat too promotes the local artisans, and handicrafts. It offers a traditional Indian village-like ambience.
Here, you will find everything from textiles, wood carvings, pottery, paintings, metal crafts, wood carvings, jewelry, etc. The haat has several kiosks of different states, where you will find the representative state’s regional products. It also hosts cultural events and has several food stalls that serve regional cuisine of different states.
6. World of Wonder
Visiting Noida during summer? What could be better than visiting one of the amusement parks of the city, where you can enjoy all the rides and play with water as much as you want! One such gem is World of Wonder (WOW), located in Noida’s GIP Mall.
This theme park spreads across an area of 10 acres and offers thrilling rides and water slides. There is also an artificial lake, a rain dance zone, go karting zone, Rocking Roller, Fast Forward, Big Beat, etc. There are several eateries inside the park, where you can beat your hunger by savoring good food after hectic rides.
7. Snow World
Summers can be harsh in Delhi NCR and if you have spent at least one summer here, you know it pretty well. The best way to beat the heat on a sunny summer day in Noida is by visiting the Snow World. It will keep you cool and at the same time offer you the fun of a snowy hill station.
The temperature inside Snow World remains as low as -10℃, enough to give you winter vibes in summer. Its fun zone includes ice skating, skiing, snow-sledging, and other snow-activities. It is one of the best places to visit in Noida during summer.
8. DLF Mall
DLF Mall of India is located in Sector 18, one of Noida’s most happening places, packed with shopping complexes, restaurants, bars, and offices. The mall spreads over an area of 2 million sq feet, making it the third largest mall in the country. The mall has seven floors and five zones.
It houses more than 330 Indian and international brands that encompass choice in apparels, fashion, technology, grocery, kids zone, multiplex, entertainment, restaurants, and pubs. No doubt, it is a complete package for all. Apart from 330 brands, it also has 80 kiosks, 5 customized shopping zones, 75 food and beverages options, and a movie theater with 7 screens.
9. Sector 18
Noida’s Sector 18 is undoubtedly one of the most exciting places to visit in Noida. This commercial area is pack with massive and tall buildings, shopping complexes, international fashion brands, movie theaters, a large number of restaurants, pubs, bars, and street food vendors. Come here after the sundown to experience the city’s energetic vibe.
Go shopping and savor delicious street foods, including momos, rolls, dosas, etc. Just taking a stroll around the area is enough to keep you hooked. On a weekend, you may bump into local performers, performing on the streets.
10. Brahmaputra Market
If you are more into experimenting with NCR’s street food, then Noida’s Brahmaputra Market is the perfect place. The market lines with street food vendors, preparing sizzling and drool-worthy foods. Take a stroll in the evening and try everything from each vendor.
From mouth-watering chaat options to kebabs, tikkas, kathi rolls, biryani, chaap, shawarmas, momos, to dosas, and noodles, you will be spoiled for choices here. It can be overwhelming, however, a trip to Brahmaputra Market is something a food lover must try.
Final Takeaway
Being a planned city and a part of the National Capital Region, Noida is a thriving metropolis in Uttar Pradesh. It shares its border with Delhi, which makes it a popular tourist hotspot for visitors of Delhi. However, Noida is a bustling commercial city with several IT companies. But it also offers several recreational options for those who want to unwind.
Punit