Places to visit in Surat – Top Places, Travel Guide

Welcome to Surat, a city of vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious food! Surat is a hidden gem in the state of Gujarat, known for its textiles, diamonds, and mouth-watering street food.

Are you looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Come to Surat and immerse yourself in the local culture. Stroll through the bustling streets, marvel at the intricate architecture, and experience the city’s vibrant energy. From the majestic Sardar Patel Museum to the iconic Dumas Beach, there’s something for everyone in Surat.

And let’s not forget about the food. Surat is famous for its lip-smacking snacks like locho, khaman, and ghari. Try the authentic flavors of Surat and indulge in the local cuisine that will leave you craving for more.

Surat is also the perfect destination for shopaholics. The city is known for its textiles and diamond industry. Browse through the colorful markets and shop for beautiful sarees, embroidered fabrics, and exquisite jewelry.

Whether you’re traveling solo or with your family, Surat is a must-visit destination. So, pack your bags and come experience the warm hospitality and incredible sights of this charming city. Book your Surat travel today and let us take care of the rest!

History of Surat

Surat is a city located in the western Indian state of Gujarat. The history of Surat dates back to the ancient times, with evidence of human settlements dating back to the 6th century BCE.

During the medieval period, Surat was a prominent port city and an important trading center, serving as a gateway for merchants and traders to India. The city was ruled by various dynasties including the Mauryas, the Chalukyas, and the Solankis before coming under the control of the Delhi Sultanate in the 14th century. Later, it was ruled by the Gujarat Sultanate and the Mughal Empire.

During the 17th century, Surat became an important hub of trade for European merchants, with the British East India Company setting up a factory here in 1612. The city was also a center for textile production and export, with its silk and cotton fabrics being in high demand in Europe.

In 1857, the first railway line in India was established between Mumbai and Surat, further boosting the city’s economic growth. Surat also played an important role in the Indian independence movement, with prominent leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel visiting the city and holding meetings here.

Today, Surat is a bustling city with a population of over 6 million people. It continues to be an important center for textile production and diamond cutting and polishing, and is known for its vibrant culture and delicious street food. The city’s rich history can still be seen in its many historical sites, including the Dutch Cemetery, the Surat Castle, and the Mughal Sarai.

Architecture of Surat

The architecture of Surat is a blend of various styles, influenced by its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is known for its stunning monuments, intricate temples, and beautiful mosques.

One of the most famous architectural landmarks in Surat is the Surat Castle, also known as the Old Fort. Built during the reign of Sultan Mahmud III in the 14th century, the castle is an impressive example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, blending Islamic, Hindu, and European styles. The castle has a moat, a drawbridge, and several watchtowers, and was once used as a military fortress and a prison.

Another notable landmark is the Dutch Cemetery, a historic cemetery located in the heart of the city. The cemetery is home to several tombs and graves of Dutch merchants who lived and worked in Surat during the 17th and 18th centuries. The tombs are made of black basalt and white marble and are decorated with intricate carvings and inscriptions.

Surat is also known for its beautiful temples, including the Ambika Niketan Temple, the Chintamani Jain Temple, and the ISKCON Temple. The Ambika Niketan Temple, located on the banks of the Tapi River, is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Ambika and is famous for its beautiful carvings and ornate architecture.

The city also has several impressive mosques, including the Jama Masjid, the Sidi Saiyad Mosque, and the Rangupavan Mosque. The Jama Masjid, built in the 14th century, is one of the oldest and largest mosques in Surat, and is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful dome.

In recent years, Surat has also seen the development of several modern architectural landmarks, including the Tapi Riverfront Development Project, which features a promenade, a water park, and a science center. Surat is a city that offers a wonderful blend of ancient and modern architecture, providing visitors with a unique and fascinating glimpse into its rich history and cultural heritage.

List of 50 Places to Visit in Surat

Sure, here are 50 places to visit in Surat, India:

1. Dumas Beach
2. Jagdishchandra Bose Aquarium
3. Science Center Surat
4. Ambika Niketan Temple
5. Dutch Garden
6. Sneh Rashmi Botanical Garden
7. Dandi Beach
8. Tapi Riverfront
9. Chintamani Jain Temple
10. Gavier Lake
11. ISKCON Surat
12. Sarthana Nature Park and Zoo
13. Swaminarayan Temple Surat
14. VR Surat Mall
15. Surat Castle
16. Surat Municipal Aquarium
17. Surat Fort
18. Suvali Beach
19. Gopi Talav
20. Hajira Village
21. Sardar Patel Museum
22. Sai Baba Temple
23. Rang Upvan
24. Surat Diamond Bourse
25. Jawaharlal Nehru Garden
26. Nanavati Heritage Museum
27. Ambaji Temple
28. Somnath Mahadev Temple
29. Suvarna Temple
30. Hazira Maqbara
31. Jai Santoshi Maa Temple
32. Kavi Narmad Central Library
33. Parsi Agiary
34. Narmad House
35. Tithal Beach
36. Suvali Beach
37. Udhna Darwaja Gate
38. Dumas Road Jain Temple
39. Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan
40. Rangila Park
41. Kavi Narmad University
42. Ubharat Beach
43. Lalbhai Contractor Stadium
44. Amaazia Water Park
45. Dandi Kutir
46. Surti Villa
47. Shyam Baba Mandir
48. Astha Mall
49. Althan National Park
50. Vansda National Park

These are just a few of the many attractions that Surat has to offer. Be sure to check out local tourist guides and websites for more information and ideas on what to do and see while you’re in the city.

Weather and Best time to visit Surat

Surat is a city located in the Indian state of Gujarat. The city has a tropical savanna climate, characterized by hot and humid summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Surat is from November to February when the weather is mild and pleasant.

During the summer months of March to June, temperatures can soar up to 40°C, and the humidity is high, making it uncomfortable to explore the city. Monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall and flooding, making it difficult to get around.

In the winter months from November to February, the temperatures are mild and comfortable, ranging from 20°C to 30°C during the day and dropping to around 15°C at night. This makes it the ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Overall, the best time to visit Surat is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities.

Travel Tips To Know Before Your Trip to Surat

Sure, here are some useful travel tips for visiting Surat:

1. Carry light cotton clothes: Surat has a hot and humid climate throughout the year, so it is advisable to pack light cotton clothes that are comfortable and breathable.
2. Be cautious of the street food: Surat is famous for its street food, especially its snacks and sweets. However, it is important to be cautious when trying new street food, as it may not be hygienic. Make sure to eat at clean and reputable food vendors.
3. Bargain when shopping: Surat is a hub for textile manufacturing and has many markets where you can buy textiles, sarees, and dress materials. When shopping, it is always a good idea to bargain with the shopkeeper for a better price.
4. Carry sunscreen and insect repellent: Surat has a tropical climate with a lot of sun exposure and mosquitos. It is advisable to carry sunscreen and insect repellent to protect yourself from the sun and insects.
5. Use public transportation: Surat has an efficient and inexpensive public transportation system, including buses and auto-rickshaws. It is advisable to use public transportation instead of hiring private taxis, which can be expensive.
6. Respect the local culture: Surat is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and it is important to respect the local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, remove your shoes when entering temples, and be mindful of local customs and beliefs.
7. Learn some basic phrases in Gujarati: Gujarati is the local language spoken in Surat. Learning a few basic phrases can be helpful when interacting with the locals and can enhance your travel experience.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your trip to Surat and have a memorable experience.

How To Reach Surat

Surat is well-connected by air, road, and rail to other major cities in India. Here are the ways to reach Surat:

1. By Air: Surat International Airport is located around 20 kilometers from the city center and has regular flights to major cities in India like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore, as well as international destinations like Dubai and Sharjah.
2. By Road: Surat is well-connected by road to other major cities in Gujarat and neighboring states like Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. National Highway 48 passes through Surat, and there are many state and private buses that operate from nearby cities.
3. By Train: Surat is a major railway station on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad rail route and has regular trains to Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Delhi, and other major cities in India. The station is located in the city center and is well-connected to the rest of the city by public transportation.
4. By Private Taxi: Another option to reach Surat is to hire a private taxi from nearby cities like Mumbai or Ahmedabad. It can be an expensive option, but it is convenient if you are traveling in a group or carrying a lot of luggage.

Overall, Surat is well-connected by air, road, and rail, and you can choose the mode of transport that suits your budget and travel preferences.

Accommodation options in Surat

Surat has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, including budget hotels, mid-range hotels, and luxury hotels. Here are some of the most popular accommodation options in Surat:

1. Budget hotels: Surat has a range of budget hotels that offer clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. Some of the popular budget hotels include Hotel Ostria, Hotel Central Excellency, and Hotel Golden Star.
2. Mid-range hotels: Surat also has many mid-range hotels that offer comfortable rooms, good amenities, and reasonable prices. Some of the popular mid-range hotels include The Gateway Hotel Athwalines, Courtyard by Marriott Surat, and Ginger Surat.
3. Luxury hotels: Surat has a few luxury hotels that offer world-class amenities, elegant rooms, and exceptional service. Some of the popular luxury hotels include The Taj Gateway Hotel, Hotel Sifat International, and The Grand Bhagwati.
4. Homestays and Service Apartments: For travelers seeking a more personalized experience, Surat also has a few homestays and serviced apartments that offer comfortable accommodations, home-cooked meals, and the opportunity to interact with local families.

Overall, Surat has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, and you can choose the one that fits your needs and requirements. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

Best Places for Shopping in Surat

Surat is a hub for textile manufacturing and has a range of markets and shopping destinations that offer a variety of textiles, sarees, dress materials, and handicrafts. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Surat:

1. Ring Road: Ring Road is a popular shopping destination in Surat and is known for its wide range of textiles, sarees, and dress materials. The market is open seven days a week and has many shops that offer a variety of designs and fabrics.
2. Surat Textile Market: Surat Textile Market is one of the largest textile markets in the world and is a must-visit for anyone interested in textiles and fabrics. The market has over 70,000 shops that offer a variety of textiles, dress materials, and sarees.
3. Millennium Market: Millennium Market is a popular shopping destination in Surat and is known for its range of designer sarees, dress materials, and wedding wear. The market has many shops that offer the latest designs and trends in women’s clothing.
4. Rander Road: Rander Road is another popular shopping destination in Surat and is known for its range of textiles, sarees, and dress materials. The market is open seven days a week and has many shops that offer affordable and stylish clothing.
5. Dumas Road: Dumas Road is a popular shopping and dining destination in Surat and is known for its range of upscale shopping malls, designer stores, and restaurants. The mall has many international and Indian brands and is a great place to shop for clothing, accessories, and electronics.

Overall, Surat has a range of shopping destinations that offer a variety of textiles, sarees, dress materials, and handicrafts. It is advisable to bargain with shopkeepers to get the best price, and always check the quality of the product before making a purchase.

Handicrafts of Surat

Surat is a city in the western Indian state of Gujarat known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is renowned for its various handicrafts that showcase the skilled craftsmanship of its artisans. Here are some of the handicrafts of Surat:

1. Zari Embroidery: Surat is famous for its Zari embroidery work, which involves weaving gold or silver threads into a fabric to create intricate designs. This type of embroidery is often used to decorate sarees, bridal wear, and other traditional Indian clothing.
2. Bandhani or Tie-dye: Bandhani or tie-dye is a traditional technique of dyeing fabric that is widely practiced in Surat. This involves tying small knots on the fabric, which are then dyed to create intricate patterns and designs. Bandhani fabrics are used to make sarees, dupattas, and other clothing items.
3. Wood Carving: Surat is also known for its wood carving work, which involves creating intricate designs on wood using traditional tools. This type of handicraft is often used to create furniture, decorative items, and souvenirs.
4. Pottery: Pottery is another traditional handicraft of Surat. The city is known for its terracotta pottery, which is made using locally sourced clay. The pottery is often adorned with intricate designs and patterns and is used for decorative purposes.
5. Glasswork: Surat is also famous for its glasswork, which includes making glass bangles, beads, and other decorative items. Glasswork in Surat is often done using traditional methods, such as blowing and shaping the glass by hand.

These are just a few of the handicrafts of Surat. The city is home to many talented artisans, each of whom has their unique style and approach to their craft.

Nightlife in Surat

Surat is a vibrant city in the western Indian state of Gujarat. While it is known for its rich history and culture, it also has a lively nightlife scene. Here are some of the things you can do to experience the nightlife in Surat:

1. Visit Nightclubs and Bars: Surat has many nightclubs and bars that are open late into the night. Some of the popular places to visit are The Gateway Hotel, The Grand Bhagwati, and Rock On.
2. Enjoy Street Food: Surat is known for its delicious street food, and the food stalls come alive at night. You can try some of the local delicacies like locho, khaman, and sev usal at various food stalls across the city.
3. Watch a Movie: If you want to enjoy a night out with friends or family, you can catch a movie at one of the multiplexes in Surat. PVR Cinemas, INOX, and Cinepolis are some of the popular multiplexes in the city.
4. Explore Riverfront: Surat has a beautiful riverfront, which is a popular spot for an evening stroll. You can also take a boat ride on the Tapi river and enjoy the scenic views of the city.
5. Visit Dumas Beach: Dumas Beach is a popular beach in Surat and is open until late at night. You can take a walk on the beach, enjoy the sea breeze, and try some of the local street food.

These are just a few of the things you can do to experience the nightlife in Surat. It is important to note that alcohol is not widely available in Gujarat, as it is a dry state, so it is advisable to check the local laws and regulations before planning a night out.

Things to do in Surat

Surat is a vibrant city in the western Indian state of Gujarat, known for its rich history, culture, and business. Here are some of the top things to do in Surat:

1. Visit Dumas Beach: Dumas Beach is a popular destination in Surat, located around 21 km from the city center. You can enjoy a walk on the beach, try some of the local street food, and soak in the stunning views of the Arabian sea.
2. Explore the Surat Castle: Surat Castle is a historic monument located in the city center, built in the 16th century. You can explore the castle, learn about its history, and marvel at the impressive architecture.
3. Shop at Local Markets: Surat is known for its textile industry and has many local markets selling traditional clothing, sarees, and other fabrics. You can visit places like Millennium Market, Sahara Darwaja, and Rander Road to shop for traditional textiles.
4. Visit the Surat Science Center: The Surat Science Center is a popular tourist destination that features interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and other educational programs. It is a great place to visit with kids and families.
5. Explore Dutch and British Cemeteries: Surat has two historic cemeteries – Dutch and British, that date back to the 17th century. You can take a walk around these cemeteries, learn about the history of the Dutch and British settlements in Surat, and see the beautifully preserved tombs and gravestones.
6. Taste the Local Cuisine: Surat is famous for its vegetarian cuisine, which includes dishes like Undhiyu, Locho, and Surti Khaman. You can visit local restaurants like Jalaram Khichadi, Rajwadu, and Sasumaa to taste these delicacies.

These are just a few of the top things to do in Surat. The city has a lot to offer, and there are many more places to explore, including historic temples, museums, and natural attractions.

Lesser Known facts about Surat

Surat is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. Here are some lesser-known facts about Surat:

1. Silk City of India: Surat is known as the “Silk City of India” as it is one of the largest producers of silk in the country.
2. First Municipal Corporation: Surat was the first city in India to have a municipal corporation. It was established in 1852.
3. Diamond Capital of the World: Surat is also known as the “Diamond Capital of the World” as it is one of the largest diamond processing centers in the world. It processes around 90% of the world’s diamonds.
4. First Naval Battle of India: The first naval battle of India was fought in the Arabian sea off the coast of Surat in 1612.
5. The Oldest Port of India: Surat was one of the busiest ports in India during the 16th and 17th centuries. It was a major trading center for textiles, spices, and other commodities.
6. Largest Flyover Bridge in India: The Vivekananda Flyover in Surat is the longest flyover bridge in India, stretching over 36.5 km.
7. A Hub for Textile Manufacturing: Surat is one of the largest textile manufacturing centers in the world, with a wide variety of fabrics and textiles produced here.
8. Home to the Tallest Building in Gujarat: The GIFT One Tower, located in the GIFT City of Surat, is the tallest building in Gujarat, standing at a height of 122 meters.

These are just a few of the lesser-known facts about Surat. The city has a rich cultural and historical heritage, and there is much more to discover and explore.

FAQ about Surat

Here are some frequently asked questions about Surat:

1. Where is Surat located?

Surat is a city located in the western Indian state of Gujarat, on the banks of the Tapi river.

2. What is Surat famous for?

Surat is famous for its textiles, especially silk, diamonds, and food. It is also known for its historical monuments, including the Surat Castle and Dutch Cemetery.

3. What is the best time to visit Surat?

The best time to visit Surat is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and cool.

4. What are some of the top tourist attractions in Surat?

Some of the top tourist attractions in Surat include the Surat Castle, Dumas Beach, the Dutch and British cemeteries, and the Surat Science Center.

5. Is Surat a safe city for tourists?

Surat is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and being cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.

6. What is the local cuisine of Surat?

The local cuisine of Surat is predominantly vegetarian and includes dishes like Undhiyu, Locho, and Surti Khaman. The city is also famous for its street food, including various types of snacks and sweets.

7. How can one travel within Surat?

One can travel within Surat using local buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. The city also has a BRTS (Bus Rapid Transit System) network that connects various parts of the city.

8. Is alcohol available in Surat?

No, Gujarat is a dry state, and alcohol is not readily available in Surat. However, some hotels and restaurants do have permits to serve alcohol to their customers.