"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
12 Sep 2025
On September 25, the city of Noida will take a significant step in combining sustainability with recreation. The Noida Authority is set to inaugurate the Noida Jungle Trail, a one-of-its-kind Waste to Wonder Park located in Sector 94, along the Noida-Delhi-Faridabad border and adjacent to the Okhla Bird Sanctuary. Spread over 18.3 acres, the park is inspired by Delhi’s Waste-to-Wonder and Bharat Darshan parks but introduces a new concept centered around wildlife and habitats. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is scheduled to inaugurate the park, coinciding with his visit to the city.
At the heart of the park are nearly 800 sculptures depicting animals, birds, and even dinosaurs, all crafted from over 500 tonnes of iron scrap and plastic waste. This creative transformation of discarded material into art reflects the power of recycling and innovation. Visitors will find themselves surrounded by life-sized creations that blend imagination with awareness, making the park both visually stunning and educational. It is not just a leisure destination but also a powerful statement on reusing waste for a greener future.
The Jungle Trail has been thoughtfully designed into three unique zones. The first, known as the Entry and Recreation Zone, covers around four acres and includes a 1,000-seat amphitheatre, a food court, a play and picnic area, and an exhibition section. With parking space for nearly 300 to 500 vehicles, this area serves as the welcoming hub for visitors.
The second and largest section, spread across 8.8 acres, is the Habitat Zone, which recreates global ecosystems such as tropical rainforests, deserts, grasslands, and wetlands. Here, life-sized sculptures and themed walks immerse visitors in diverse habitats, blending entertainment with ecological education.
The third zone, called the Natural World Zone, is located near the Okhla Bird Sanctuary and spans 5.5 acres. It showcases polar landscapes, temperate forests, islands, and oceans, offering an experience that feels close to nature itself. Together, these three divisions ensure that every visitor finds something engaging, from children enjoying interactive spaces to nature enthusiasts learning about ecosystems.
While the sculptures and habitats are the main attractions, the Jungle Trail goes a step further by planning a range of adventure and recreational activities in its second phase. Visitors will soon be able to experience zip-lining, bungee jumping, rock and rope climbing, trampolines, and even zip cycling, turning the park into an active hub of excitement. Perhaps the most unique addition will be the first-ever jungle night safari in the NCR, where battery-operated e-carts will take visitors on a tour of the park under atmospheric lighting. As the illuminated sculptures and recreated habitats come alive after dark, this blend of thrill and eco-awareness will make the Jungle Trail a truly unmatched destination in the region.
The Jungle Trail has also been designed with accessibility and convenience in mind. It features two major entry points, one near Dalit Prerna Sthal and another at the Sector 94 Metro Station, making it easy for people from both Noida and Delhi to visit. With parking space for nearly 500 vehicles, along with footbridges and underpasses, the park is equipped to handle large crowds smoothly, even on weekends and holidays. The entry fee has been fixed at just ₹100 per visitor, keeping it affordable for families while also generating revenue for regular maintenance. Day-to-day upkeep will be managed by the operating agency, which will share profits with the Noida Authority to ensure the park’s long-term sustainability.
In a fast-growing urban nation like India, where cities are often dominated by concrete structures and shrinking green spaces, parks like the Jungle Trail are not just recreational spots but a necessity. They create awareness about biodiversity, climate change, and the importance of conservation in a way that is interactive and engaging. For children, these spaces provide hands-on learning beyond classrooms, inspiring curiosity about nature and wildlife. For families, they serve as safe and affordable getaways that promote healthy outdoor activities instead of screen-driven lifestyles. Moreover, with rising pollution levels and stress in urban areas, such parks offer much-needed breathing spaces that blend fun, fitness, and education. By combining ecological awareness with recreation, projects like the Jungle Trail play a vital role in shaping environmentally responsible citizens and preserving India’s natural heritage for future generations. For India, this is a step toward rethinking waste management, using creativity to turn problems into possibilities. For Noida, it’s a chance to give its people a green, engaging, and futuristic public space.