SURAT
Surat, the diamond city of India, is known for its bustling markets, delicious food, and vibrant culture. If you haven't heard of Surat yet, don't worry - you're not alone! But trust me when I say that this city will leave you spellbound with its charm and hospitality.
Have you ever been to a place where the street food is so good that it makes you forget about all your diet plans? Well, Surat is that place! From the mouth-watering locho to the spicy ghari, this city has everything to offer to your taste buds. And guess what? You won't even have to break the bank for it.
But food isn't the only reason why Surat is worth a visit. This city is also a shopper's paradise! The famous textile market of Rander Road is where you'll find some of the best fabrics in the country. And if you're lucky enough, you might even get a chance to witness some bargaining skills that would put even a seasoned negotiator to shame.
And let's not forget about the people of Surat! They are some of the most warm-hearted and welcoming people you'll ever meet. Their love for their city is contagious and will make you fall in love with Surat too.
So, if you're looking for a place that offers great food, amazing shopping options, and friendly locals - Surat is where you need to be! Trust us when we say that this diamond in the rough will shine brighter than any other gem once you visit it.
Table of Contents
History and Culture of Surat
Surat, the diamond city of India, has a rich history and culture that dates back to the 12th century. Legend has it that the city was founded by a Brahmin named Gopi who named it Suryapur after the Sun God. Today, Surat is known for its textile industry, diamond cutting and polishing industry, and delicious street food.
During the Mughal era, Surat was a major trading port and one of the wealthiest cities in India. The British also established their presence in Surat and made it their first Indian settlement in 1612. This led to a fusion of cultures in Surat which can be seen even today in its architecture, food, and festivals.
One such festival is Navratri which is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Surat. People dress up in traditional attire and participate in Garba dances all night long. The city also hosts the annual Surat International Marathon which attracts runners from all over the world.
Surat is also famous for its street food which includes dishes like Locho, Khaman Dhokla, and Undhiyu. These dishes are so popular that people come from far and wide just to taste them. The local markets of Surat are also famous for their sarees and fabrics which are exported all over the world.
In conclusion, Surat has a unique blend of history and culture that makes it stand out from other cities in India. It's a city that has something to offer everyone - from foodies to history buffs to fashion lovers. So if you ever get a chance to visit Surat, don't miss out on experiencing its vibrant culture firsthand!
How to Reach and getting around Surat
Surat, the diamond city of India, is well-connected to major cities in India by air, rail and road. Here are some options on how to reach Surat:
By Air: Surat Airport is located about 20 km from the city centre and has regular flights connecting it to major cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Jaipur and Bangalore. One can take a cab or hire a taxi from the airport to reach the city centre.
By Rail: Surat Railway Station is one of the busiest railway stations in India and is well-connected to major cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Chennai and Kolkata. One can take a direct train or change trains at Ahmedabad or Mumbai to reach Surat. The station has auto-rickshaws and taxis available outside for commuting within the city.
By Road: Surat is well-connected to major cities in Gujarat and Maharashtra by road. One can take a bus or hire a taxi from Ahmedabad or Mumbai to reach Surat. The state bus service of Gujarat operates regular buses from Ahmedabad to Surat, which takes around 4-5 hours.
By Car: One can also drive down to Surat from nearby cities like Ahmedabad (about 250 km) or Mumbai (about 300 km). The roads are well-maintained with plenty of restaurants and petrol pumps along the way.
Whichever mode of transport you choose, make sure to book your tickets in advance during peak season for a hassle-free journey. Happy travelling!
Weather of Surat
Extreme Winters
Mild WintersHot + DryHot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantSurat is a city located in the state of Gujarat, India. The weather in Surat is tropical, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. The monsoon season lasts from June to September, bringing heavy rainfall to the region. The average temperature during summer ranges from 30°C to 38°C, while winter temperatures range from 15°C to 28°C.
The best time to visit Surat is during the winter months of October to February when the climate is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities. During this time, the temperature remains mild and the humidity levels are low, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and exploring the city's cultural heritage.
Visitors can also enjoy various festivals that take place during this period, such as Navratri, Diwali, and Makar Sankranti. These festivals offer a glimpse into the colorful culture of Gujarat and provide a unique experience for tourists.
Overall, Surat is a year-round destination with something to offer every season. However, if you want to avoid extreme heat and heavy rains, then visiting during the winter months would be your best bet. Whether you're interested in history, culture or just looking for a relaxing vacation destination, Surat has it all!
Places to Visit in Surat
Dumas Beach: Dumas Beach is a popular tourist spot in Surat, known for its black sand and serene surroundings. It is an ideal place to relax, take a stroll along the beach, and enjoy the stunning sunset views.
Jagdishchandra Bose Aquarium: The Jagdishchandra Bose Aquarium is one of the largest public aquariums in India. It houses a wide range of marine life, including fish, turtles, sharks, and rays. The aquarium also has a touch pool where visitors can interact with sea creatures.
Sardar Patel Museum: The Sardar Patel Museum is dedicated to the life and work of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, one of India's founding fathers. The museum houses various artifacts related to Patel's life, including rare photographs and documents.
Chintamani Jain Temple: The Chintamani Jain Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara of the Jains. It is known for its intricate carvings and architecture.
Ambika Niketan Temple: The Ambika Niketan Temple is a popular Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Amba Mata. It is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Dutch Garden: The Dutch Garden is a historical garden built by the Dutch in the 17th century. It features several fountains, walkways, and manicured lawns.
Science Centre Surat: The Science Centre Surat is an interactive science museum that aims to promote science education among children and adults alike. It features several exhibits related to physics, chemistry, biology, and astronomy.
Surat Castle: Surat Castle is a historical fort built by Muhammad bin Tughlaq in the 14th century. It features several ancient structures such as gates, mosques, tombs, and palaces.
Sarthana National Park: Sarthana National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located on the outskirts of Surat city. It houses various species of birds such as peafowl, parrots, eagles and other animals such as leopards and jackals.
10.Tapi Riverfront: Tapi Riverfront is a scenic spot located on the banks of river Tapi in Surat city center with many restaurants offering local cuisine options along with some live music performances during night time making it perfect for evening walks or family visits during weekends.
Heritage Places
Beaches
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Surat
Best areas for accommodation in Surat
Surat, famously known as the diamond city of India, is a bustling city in the state of Gujarat. It is a blend of modernity and culture, with a rich history that dates back to centuries. Surat offers plenty of options for accommodation ranging from budget stays to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best areas for accommodation in Surat:
Adajan: Adajan is a suburb located in the western part of Surat. It is one of the most popular areas for accommodation as it has several budget-friendly hotels and guest houses. The area is well-connected to the rest of the city and has plenty of shopping and dining options.
Ghod Dod Road: Ghod Dod Road is an upmarket area in Surat, known for its posh residential buildings and high-end shopping malls. It has some excellent luxury hotels that offer world-class amenities.
Dumas Road: Dumas Road is another popular area for accommodation, located on the outskirts of Surat. The area boasts several high-end hotels that offer scenic views of the Arabian Sea.
If you're planning to visit Surat and looking for some great accommodation options, here are three properties that you can consider:
The Gateway Hotel Athwalines by Taj: This luxury hotel is located on Athwalines Road in Surat and offers top-notch amenities like an outdoor pool, spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
Hotel Central Excellency: This budget-friendly hotel is situated on Ring Road in Adajan and offers comfortable rooms at affordable rates. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant that serves delicious food.
Hostel Mantra: This hostel is located on Dumas Road and offers dormitory-style accommodation at pocket-friendly prices. The hostel has a common lounge area where guests can relax and socialize with other travelers.
Overall, Surat has plenty of great accommodation options to suit all kinds of travelers' needs and budgets.
Shopping in Surat
Surat, also known as the textile hub of India, is a shopper's paradise. The city offers an extensive range of textiles, jewelry, handicrafts, and more. Here are some things to buy, markets to visit, and what to avoid while shopping in Surat.
Things to buy
- Sarees: Surat is famous for its silk and cotton sarees with intricate embroidery work.
- Diamond jewelry: The city has a vast diamond industry that offers high-quality diamonds at reasonable prices.
- Handicrafts: Handcrafted items like pottery, wooden toys, and wall hangings make excellent souvenirs.
- Spices: Surat's Khau Gali is famous for its street food and spices like pav bhaji masala and garam masala.
Markets to visit
- Rander Road Market: This market is known for its sarees and dress materials.
- Ghod Dod Road Market: It is the go-to place for diamond jewelry, designer clothes, and footwear.
- Surat Textile Market: It is the largest wholesale textile market in Asia with over 35,000 shops selling fabrics of all kinds.
What to avoid
- Street vendors selling fake goods: Avoid buying products from street vendors who sell counterfeit or fake goods.
- Shopping in crowded areas during peak hours: Crowded areas like Limbayat should be avoided during peak hours as it can be challenging to navigate through the crowds.
- Buying from unauthorized dealers: Always buy from authorized dealers or shops with a proper bill of sale to ensure authenticity.
- Overpaying for products: Bargain hard while shopping in Surat as many shopkeepers tend to overprice their products.
In conclusion, shopping in Surat can be an enriching experience if you know where to go and what to avoid. With its vibrant markets offering a range of products at reasonable prices, it's no wonder that Surat remains one of the top destinations for shoppers across India.
Nightlife in Surat
Surat, the diamond city of India, is a bustling metropolis that never sleeps. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife and offers an array of options to party lovers. From swanky clubs to rooftop bars, Surat has it all. The city is dotted with numerous nightclubs, lounges, and pubs that offer a thrilling experience to party-goers.
1. Club Infinity: Club Infinity is one of the most popular nightclubs in Surat that provides a perfect ambiance for party lovers. The club has an impressive dance floor and state-of-the-art sound systems that make it an ideal destination to dance the night away.
2. Sky Lounge: Sky Lounge is a rooftop bar located on the 10th floor of the Textile Tower in Surat. It offers stunning views of the city skyline and serves delicious cocktails and mocktails along with finger food.
3. Mirchi 360°: Mirchi 360° is another popular nightclub in Surat that provides a unique experience to party-goers. The club has a revolving dance floor that adds an extra zing to your dancing experience.
Apart from these, there are several other places like Rangoli Restaurant & Banquet Hall, Madhuban Resort & Spa, etc., where you can enjoy live music, karaoke nights, and cultural programs while enjoying delicious food and drinks.
In conclusion, Surat's nightlife scene is lively and diverse with something for everyone. Whether you want to dance till dawn or enjoy a drink with friends under the stars, Surat has everything you need for an unforgettable night out.
Outdoor Activities in Surat
Surat is not just famous for its nightlife but also offers a plethora of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. From thrilling water sports to serene nature walks, Surat has something for everyone. One can indulge in activities like parasailing, where you can soar high in the sky and get a bird's eye view of the beautiful coastline. Another popular activity is jet skiing, where you can speed through the waves and feel the adrenaline rush. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, river rafting is an excellent option to explore the scenic beauty of Surat.
Apart from water sports, Surat also offers options for land-based activities like trekking and camping. Surrounded by lush green mountains, there are several trekking trails that offer breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Camping in Surat is an experience in itself, with several camping sites offering a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
For those who love wildlife, Surat has many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries where one can spot exotic species like lions, tigers, leopards etc. One such popular destination is the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary which is home to several species of birds and animals.
In conclusion, Surat offers a wide range of outdoor activities that cater to all types of adventurers. Whether it's water sports or trekking or wildlife safaris, there's something for everyone to explore and enjoy in this vibrant city.
- Parasailing
- Jet skiing
- River Rafting
Festivals and Events in Surat
In Surat, festivals and events play a significant role in the city's culture, tradition, and heritage. They are an excellent way to bring people together and celebrate various occasions, traditions, and beliefs. The city is known for its vibrant celebrations that attract tourists from all over the world. Here are some of the most famous festivals and events in Surat:
Navratri (October): Navratri is one of the most celebrated festivals in Surat where people worship Goddess Durga for nine days. The city comes alive with colorful decorations, traditional dance performances like Garba and Dandiya Raas, and delicious food.
Tithi Toran Fair (January): This fair takes place at the Tithal Beach near Surat during Makar Sankranti. It is a cultural festival where people come together to fly kites, indulge in local delicacies, and participate in various games.
Surat International Textile Expo (February): This expo showcases textiles from all over the world. It attracts textile enthusiasts from different parts of India and abroad.
Chintan Shibir (June): Chintan Shibir is a spiritual retreat organized by Swaminarayan Gurukul. It aims to provide spiritual guidance to participants through lectures, discussions, meditation sessions, etc.
Surat International Food Festival (December): This food festival brings together street food vendors from all over Gujarat to showcase their delicacies. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of dishes at affordable prices.
These festivals and events are just a few examples of how Surat celebrates its culture and traditions throughout the year. They offer visitors an excellent opportunity to experience the city's unique blend of modernity and tradition.
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Surat
Plan ahead: Research the festivals and events taking place in Surat before your trip to make sure you don't miss out on any exciting activities. Book your accommodation and transportation in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
Dress appropriately: Surat is a conservative city, so it's important to dress modestly when visiting public places such as temples or markets. Women should cover their heads and wear long skirts or pants, while men should avoid wearing shorts.
Try the local cuisine: Surat is known for its delicious street food, so be sure to try some of the local specialties like undhiyu, khaman dhokla, and locho. However, be cautious when eating street food as it may not always be hygienic.
Bargain at the markets: Surat is home to some of the best textile markets in India. While shopping, don't hesitate to bargain with the vendors for a better price. However, be respectful and don't haggle too aggressively.
Explore beyond the city: While Surat has plenty to offer within its city limits, don't miss out on exploring the surrounding areas such as Dumas Beach or Bardoli. Hire a car or join a tour group to make the most of your trip.
Overall, traveling to Surat can be an incredibly rewarding experience if you keep these tips in mind. By planning ahead, respecting local customs, trying new foods, bargaining at markets and exploring beyond the city limits, you'll have an unforgettable trip filled with culture and adventure.
FAQs
What is Surat known for?
Surat is known as the diamond city of India. It has a rich history of the diamond industry and is one of the world's largest diamond processing centers. Apart from this, Surat is also famous for its textiles and silk sarees. The city is also known for its delicious street food, especially the famous Surati Undhiyu.
What are some popular tourist attractions in Surat?
Surat has several popular tourist attractions, including the Dumas Beach, Ambika Niketan Temple, Jagdish Chandra Bose Aquarium, and Science Centre. The city is also home to several historical landmarks such as the Dutch Garden, Chintamani Jain Temple, and Sardar Patel Museum.
Is Surat a safe city for tourists?
Yes, Surat is considered a safe city for tourists. However, like any other city, it's important to take precautions while traveling. Make sure to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas.
What are some famous markets in Surat?
Surat is a shopper's paradise with several bustling markets. Some popular markets include the Textile Market (also known as Ring Road), Rander Road Market, and Baroda Prestige Market. These markets offer a wide variety of goods ranging from textiles to jewelry and handicrafts.
How can one reach Surat?
Surat has excellent connectivity through airways, railways, and roadways. The city has its airport - Surat Airport - with flights connecting it to major cities in India. The railway station in Surat also connects it to several cities across India through regular trains. Additionally, there are several buses available connecting Surat to other major cities.
When is the best time to visit Surat?
The best time to visit Surat is during winters (November-February) when the weather is pleasant and mild. Summers (March-June) can be quite hot and humid while monsoons (July-September) bring heavy rainfall.
What are some traditional dishes of Surat that one should try?
Surati Undhiyu - a mixed vegetable dish made with seasonal vegetables - is a must-try when in Surat. Other traditional dishes include Locho - steamed gram flour snack topped with sev - and Khaman - steamed gram flour cakes served with chutney. For dessert lovers, Mohanthal - a sweet made from gram flour and ghee - is highly recommended.
