On the banks of Tapi River, Surat is a major industrial and commercial hub in the country. It is the second most populated city in the state of Gujarat. Surat is the largest centre for diamond cutting and polishing industry in the world. Also, the city serves as the hub for textile manufacturing. Historically, Surat was known as Suryapur. The ancient port city witnessed the change of regimes among different powers such as Dutch, Portuguese, French and British. Apart from the thriving economy, Surat is famous for heritage monuments, narrow streets and lovely beaches.
Things to do in Surat
Visit the Jagdish Chandra Bose Aquarium that offers the opportunity to discover the world of fishes and marine life. Take a heritage tour to Surat Castle and Dutch Gardens. Enjoy a great time at the beautiful black sand beaches like Dumas Beach, Tithal Beach, Suvali Beach and Umbharat Beach. Further, visit Dandi Beach, an important landmark of the freedom struggle of India. Pay homage at Ambika Niketan Temple and Chintamani Jain Temple. Wildlife enthusiasts can have a trip to Vansda National Park. Enjoy a walk at Jawaharlal Nehru Garden. Make your visit to the Sardar Vallabhai Patel Museum.
Tourist attractions in Surat
The major tourist attractions in Surat include the Surat Castle, Ambika Niketan Temple, Dutch Garden, Chintamani Jain Temple, Dumas Beach, Gopi Talav, ISKCON Temple, Suvali Beach, Hajira Beach and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Museum.
Places to shop in Surat
When in Surat, your shopping list must include diamond jewellery. Further, zari sarees, ghagra-cholis, handlooms and woodcraft are some other items you can shop in the city. The prime shopping destinations in Surat are Reshamwala Market, New Bombay Market, Surat Textile Market, Rander Road, New Textile Market and Ghoddod Road. The popular shopping malls in the city include VR Surat, Rahul Raj Mall, Imperial Square Mall and The Palladium Mall.
Best time to visit
The period from October to March is considered the best time to visit Surat.
Modes of transport
Surat City Bus services and auto-rickshaws are the primary modes of public transport in Surat. For a comfortable ride, app-based cabs are good options.
Weather in Surat
The summer season in Surat is very hot and humid with the temperature touching 45 degrees Celsius. The city receives occasional rainfall during monsoons. The weather turns out to be pleasant in winters. The average temperature in this season is around 15 degrees Celsius.
Airport in Surat
Surat International Airport (STV) is located about 20 km from the city centre. IndiGo operates 52 non-stop weekly flights between Surat and other major destinations in the country.