Surat Travel Guide (South Gujarat/Gujarat/Western India/India/South Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Surat

Surat is a port city in the state of Gujarat, Western India. It is a prominent economic hub and one of the fastest growing cities in India. Surat has a rich history, dating back to the 16th century when it served as a major port for the Mughal Empire. Today, Surat is known for its diamond and textile industries and its lively street markets.

List of Places to Visit in Surat

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Surat has a number of museums and historical places that are worth visiting. Some of the notable ones are:

Surat Castle: A 16th-century fort built by the Mughals, now used for government offices and museums.
Sardar Patel Museum: A museum showcasing the cultural heritage of Surat and surrounding areas, with collections of textiles, art, and artefacts.
Science Centre: A modern science museum with interactive exhibits on technology, space, and environment.

Natural Attractions of Surat: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Surat is situated on the banks of Tapi River and has a number of natural attractions that offer outdoor adventures and scenic views. Some of the notable ones are:

Dumas Beach: A popular beach known for its black sand and scenic views of the Arabian Sea.
Gavier Lake: A serene lake with a garden, jogging track, and bird-watching facilities.
Sarthana National Park: A national park with a variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, and birds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Surat

Surat has a number of hiking and biking routes that offer breathtaking views of nature and cultural heritage. Some of the notable ones are:

Surat-Dandi Heritage Route: A 35-km cycling route that follows the route taken by Mahatma Gandhi during the Salt Satyagraha.
Dutch Garden Cycling Route: A 10-km route that takes you through the city’s Dutch Garden, Dutch Cemetery, and Dutch Cemetery Tower.
Tapi Riverfront Cycling Route: A cycling route along the Tapi River, offering scenic views of the river and the city skyline.

Best Things to Do in Surat: Activities and Tours

Surat offers a variety of activities and tours that cater to different interests and budgets. Some of the best things you can do in Surat are:

Visit the diamond and textile industries for a glimpse of the city’s economic prowess.
Shop at the street markets, such as the famous Rander Road Market, for ethnic wear, jewellery, and handicrafts.
Try local street food, such as Surati Undhiyu, Khaman Dhokla, and Kulfi Falooda.
Take a boat ride on the Tapi River for a unique perspective of the city.
Attend a cultural festival, such as the Surat International Textile Expo or the Navratri Festival.

Week-Long Itinerary for Surat

If you’re planning to spend a week in Surat, here’s a suggested itinerary that covers the city’s major attractions and activities:

Day	Activities
1	Visit Surat Castle, Sardar Patel Museum, and Science Centre
2	Take a boat ride on the Tapi River, visit the Dutch Garden and Dutch Cemetery
3	Explore the diamond and textile industries, visit street markets
4	Visit Dumas Beach, Gavier Lake, and Sarthana National Park
5	Take a day trip to Ubharat Beach, 42 km from Surat
6	Attend a cultural festival, such as Surat International Textile Expo or Navratri Festival
7	Try local street food, such as Surati Undhiyu, Khaman Dhokla, and Kulfi Falooda

Food and Drink Scene of Surat

Must-Try Dishes

Surat has a rich culinary tradition, with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes that are unique to the region. Some of the must-try dishes are:

Surati Undhiyu: A mixed vegetable dish made with brinjal, potatoes, yam, and green beans, served with roti and rice.
Khaman Dhokla: A steamed snack made with gram flour and served with chutney.
Kulfi Falooda: A dessert made with condensed milk, saffron, rose syrup, and vermicelli.

Local Beverages

Surat is known for its traditional beverages that are refreshing and healthy. Some of the popular ones are:

Surti Sherbet: A mix of various fruits, lemon juice, and mint leaves.
Sugarcane juice: Freshly pressed sugarcane juice, served with ice and lemon.
Masala Chaas: A spiced buttermilk with roasted cumin and mint leaves.

Where to Stay in Surat: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Surat has a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Some of the popular ones are:

The Gateway Hotel Athwalines: A luxury hotel with modern amenities and scenic views of the city.
Hotel Sifat International: A budget hotel with clean and comfortable rooms.
Backpacker Panda Surat: A hostel with a vibrant atmosphere and social activities.

What to Buy in Surat: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Surat is known for its textiles, diamonds, and handicrafts, and there are plenty of places to shop for souvenirs and local products. Some of the popular ones are:

Ethnic wear, such as sarees, salwar suits, and kurtas, at the street markets.
Diamonds and other precious stones at the diamond markets, such as Varachha Road Diamond Market.
Handicrafts, such as wall hangings, pottery, and wooden toys, at the handicraft markets, such as Surat Handicraft Market.

Local Culture and Customs of Surat

Surat has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its festivals, cuisine, and lifestyle. Here are some of the interesting customs and traditions of Surat:

Navratri Festival: A nine-day festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, with colourful dance performances, such as Garba and Dandiya Raas.
Paan: A popular mouth freshener made with betel leaf, areca nut, and a variety of flavourings, such as cardamom and rose petal.
Ethnic wear: Surat is known for its traditional Gujarati attire, such as sarees and lehengas, which are colourful and embellished with intricate embroidery and mirror work.

Best Time to Visit Surat

The best time to visit Surat is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and there are several festivals and events taking place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Surat

Do:

Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious places.
Bargain at the street markets, such as the Rander Road Market, to get good deals.
Try local street food, such as Surati Undhiyu, Khaman Dhokla, and Kulfi Falooda.

Don’t:

Drink tap water. Always drink bottled water or use a water purifier.
Tourist Destinations are away from city limits so it’s always recommended to book via online travel platform or tour operator.
Don’t harm animals, even stray animals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Surat

Surat is generally safe for tourists, and there are no major safety concerns. However, it is advisable to take the following precautions:

Avoid travelling alone at night.
Be cautious of pickpockets and bag snatchers in crowded places.
Use licensed taxis and public transport to avoid scams.

Health in Surat

Surat has standard medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. However, it is advisable to take the following precautions:

Carry a basic first aid kit and any prescription medication.
Drink bottled water and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
Use mosquito repellent in the evenings to avoid mosquito-borne diseases.

Getting to Surat: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Surat

The nearest airport to Surat is Surat International Airport, which is located about 20 km from the city centre. It has regular flights to major cities in India.

Bus Stations Near Surat

Surat has good road connectivity and there are several bus stations in the city that connect it to other major cities in Gujarat and India. Some of the popular ones are:

Surat Central Bus Stand: Located in the heart of the city, it has regular bus services to Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Pune, and other cities in Gujarat.
Kamrej Bus Station: Located 15 km from the city centre, it has bus services to various destinations within and outside Gujarat.

Other Options

Surat is well-connected to other cities in Gujarat and India by train. The city has two major railway stations, Surat Railway Station and Udhna Junction, which have regular trains to major cities in Gujarat and India.

How to Get Around in Surat

Surat has a good public transport system, including buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws, which are cheap and convenient for getting around the city. There are also cycle-rickshaws and e-rickshaws available in some areas.

Where to Go Next from Surat: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Surat is well-connected to other major cities and tourist destinations in Gujarat and India. Some of the popular destinations near Surat are:

Daman: A former Portuguese colony known for its beaches, forts, and churches, located 65 km from Surat.
Saputara: A hill station known for its scenic views, lakes, and waterfalls, located 170 km from Surat.
Mumbai: The financial capital of India, known for its bustling streets, markets, and nightlife, located 295 km from Surat.

Conclusion

Surat is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. Whether you’re interested in exploring its museums and historical places, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, or simply relaxing on its beautiful beaches, Surat has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the best of Surat!