Welcome to the ultimate 2026 guide to the Noida Metro, also known as the Aqua Line. This state-of-the-art metro system has become the primary mode of transport connecting the twin cities of Noida and Greater Noida, offering a fast, efficient, and comfortable commute. Whether you’re a professional working in the region, a student, or a resident, this guide will provide you with all the essential details on Noida Metro routes, timings, fares, and connectivity to make your travel seamless.
The Noida Metro, operated by the Noida Metro Rail Corporation (NMRC), runs on a single corridor known as the Aqua Line. In 2026, the metro services are available from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekdays, with slightly different timings on weekends. The Aqua Line is praised for its punctuality, with trains operating at a frequency of 7-10 minutes during peak hours.
An Overview of the Noida Metro Network in 2026
Inaugurated in 2019, the Noida Metro Aqua Line was built to cater to the rapidly growing population of the Noida-Greater Noida region in Uttar Pradesh. The entire line is elevated, providing passengers with a panoramic view of the modern cityscapes. The system is known for its brightly coloured, modern trains and clean, spacious stations. By 2026, the metro network is on the cusp of significant expansion, with plans to connect with the Delhi Metro’s Blue Line and extend deeper into Greater Noida, which will vastly improve regional connectivity.
NMRC emphasizes a smooth passenger experience with its user-friendly services. The ticketing system is distinct from the Delhi Metro but is easy to use, with options for QR-coded paper tickets and smart cards. Stations are equipped with modern amenities, including dedicated feeder bus services to enhance last-mile connectivity.
Detailed Noida Metro Route for 2026
The core of the Noida Metro system is the Aqua Line, which forms a crucial link between Noida and Greater Noida.
The Aqua Line: Sector 51 (Noida) to Depot Station (Greater Noida)
The Aqua Line is a 29.7 km long corridor that starts at Sector 51 in Noida and terminates at the Depot Station in Greater Noida. The line runs parallel to the Noida-Greater Noida Expressway for a significant portion of its journey. It connects major residential sectors, commercial hubs, educational institutions, and corporate offices along this booming development belt.
- Key Stations in Noida: Sector 51, Sector 76, Sector 101, Sector 142, Botanical Garden (planned interchange).
- Key Stations in Greater Noida: Pari Chowk, Alpha 1, Delta 1, Depot Station.
- Interchange Point: The Sector 51 station is the primary interchange point. It is connected to the Sector 52 station of the Delhi Metro’s Blue Line via a dedicated walkway, allowing passengers to switch between the two networks.
Future Expansion and Connectivity
Several expansion projects are planned for the Noida Metro. A key project is the extension from Noida Sector 51 to Knowledge Park V in Greater Noida (West). Another crucial link is a proposed line connecting Sector 142 of the Aqua Line to the Botanical Garden station of the Delhi Metro, which would create a second, more direct interchange between the two systems.
Noida Metro Timings and Frequency in 2026
The Noida Metro operates on a schedule designed to meet the needs of the region’s large working and student population.
| Day | First Train | Last Train | Peak Hour Frequency | Non-Peak Hour Frequency |
| Weekdays (Mon-Fri) | 6:00 AM (approx.) | 10:45 PM (approx.) | 7.5 minutes | 10 minutes |
| Saturday | 6:00 AM (approx.) | 10:45 PM (approx.) | 10 minutes | 10 minutes |
| Sunday | 8:00 AM (approx.) | 10:45 PM (approx.) | 15 minutes | 15 minutes |
Note: The last train service commences at 10:00 PM from terminal stations. For the most accurate schedule, it is best to refer to the official NMRC website or app.
Fares, Tickets, and Smart Cards
The Noida Metro has its own ticketing and fare system. The fare is calculated based on the distance travelled, with a minimum fare of ₹10 and a maximum fare of ₹50 for a single journey.
Ticketing Options
- QR-coded Tickets: Single journey tickets are issued as paper tickets with a QR code, which needs to be scanned at the entry and exit gates.
- NMRC Smart Card: For regular commuters, the NMRC Smart Card (ACQUA Card) is the most convenient option. It offers a 10% discount on every journey and can be purchased and recharged at any metro station.
- Mobile App: The NMRC app allows passengers to buy mobile QR tickets, which eliminates the need to stand in queues.
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Connectivity with Delhi Metro
A key point for passengers is the connectivity between the Noida Metro and the Delhi Metro. As of 2026, the primary interchange is between the Noida Metro’s Sector 51 station and the Delhi Metro’s Sector 52 station (Blue Line). A 300-meter walkway, equipped with free solar-powered feeder services, connects the two stations. It’s important to remember that the ticketing systems are separate, so you will need to exit one system and enter the other with a valid ticket or card for that network.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the timings for the Noida Metro Aqua Line in 2026?
On weekdays (Monday to Friday), the Noida Metro runs from 6:00 AM to 10:45 PM. On Saturdays, the timings are the same. On Sundays, the service starts later at 8:00 AM and runs until 10:45 PM. The last train starts its journey from terminal stations at 10:00 PM.
Can I use my Delhi Metro card on the Noida Metro?
No, the ticketing systems for the Delhi Metro and the Noida Metro (Aqua Line) are separate. You cannot use a Delhi Metro card on the Noida Metro and vice versa. You need to purchase a separate ticket or use an NMRC-specific smart card for your journey on the Aqua Line.
How do I switch from the Noida Metro to the Delhi Metro?
To switch between the two networks, you need to get down at the Sector 51 station of the Noida Metro and use the dedicated walkway to reach the Sector 52 station of the Delhi Metro’s Blue Line. You will have to exit the Noida Metro system and enter the Delhi Metro system with a new ticket.
What is the frequency of the Noida Metro?
During peak hours on weekdays, the train frequency is about 7.5 minutes. During off-peak hours and on Saturdays, it is 10 minutes. On Sundays, the frequency is lower, with a train available every 15 minutes.
Are there feeder buses available at Noida Metro stations?
Yes, Noida Metro Rail Corporation (NMRC) operates dedicated feeder buses that connect metro stations to nearby residential sectors, commercial areas, and corporate offices. These buses are GPS-enabled and provide crucial last-mile connectivity for passengers.