Surat is a dynamic city in the western state of Gujarat, weaving together a colourful tale of history, commerce, and culture. Renowned as the "Diamond City of India," it plays a pivotal role in the global diamond and textile industries, shaping the country's economic fabric. Surat tourism lets you explore a range of attractions, including the historic Surat Castle, the iconic Sardar Patel Museum, and the scenic Dutch Garden. The city is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as Dumas Beach, which offers a relaxing getaway from bustling city life. Surat is a paradise for food lovers, with its wide range of delicacies like locho, ghari, and surti undhiyu. This Surat travel guide is your key to unravelling the city's cultural richness and ensuring an unforgettable experience in the diamond city of India.
How to reach Surat
- By air: Surat International Airport (STV) connects the city with domestic and international destinations. The airport is located in Magdalla, approximately 12 km southwest of the city centre. It has one terminal that serves domestic and international flights, operates regular flights to Surat, and makes the city easily accessible by air.
- By train: Surat boasts a well-connected railway network and the Surat Railway Station is a central hub. Trains from various parts of the country provide convenient access to the city.
- By bus: Surat's extensive network of state-run and private buses ensures smooth connectivity to neighbouring cities and towns. Comfortable bus services cater to diverse travel preferences.
- Getting around/local transport in Surat: Surat has a well-developed local transport system that includes buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. Surat Municipal Corporation operates city buses that cover various routes across the city.
Places to visit
Trending
Dumas Beach
Known for its black sand and eerie reputation, it offers a scenic coastline bustling with activities
Exploration time: 1-2 hours
Dutch Garden
Exploration time: 1-2 hours
Sardar Patel Museum
Exploration time: 2 hours
Jagdish Chandra Bose Aquarium
Exploration time: 1-2 hours
Chintamani Jain Temple
Exploration time: 1 hour
Science Centre
Exploration time: 2-3 hoursView All 6 places
Places to eat
Embark on a culinary adventure in Surat with a visit to these renowned eateries, known for their delectable offerings and warm hospitality.
View more
Kansar Gujarati Thali
Indulge in an authentic Gujarati dining experience at Kansar, where a traditional thali showcases the diverse flavours of Gujarat.
Popular dishes: Dhokla, thepla, and undhiyu.
Kailash Sweets and Snacks
Renowned for the quality and taste of its offerings, Kailash Sweets and Snacks has become a favourite among locals and tourists, offering a wide variety of Indian sweets and savoury snacks.
Popular dishes: Kalakand, milk cake, jalebi, and chole kulcha.
Shiv Shakti Sweets & Snacks
Delight in the flavours of traditional Surati sweets and snacks at Shiv Shakti, a popular destination for authentic local treats.
Popular dishes: Rasmalai, kala jamun, gulab jamun, and moti pak.
Shree Kathiyawadi Khadki
Savour the rich flavours of Kathiawadi cuisine at Shree Kathiyawadi Khadki, where a hearty thali promises a gastronomic journey through Gujarat.
Popular dishes: Bajra roti, thepla, and undhiyu.
Sagwadi
Enjoy a fine dining experience at Sagwadi, known for its diverse menu featuring Gujarati, Rajasthani, and North Indian cuisines.
Popular dishes: Dal baati churma, dhokla, and thali.
Mysore Cafe
Mysore Cafe is a renowned eatery serving South Indian staples in a casual, family-friendly setting.
Popular dishes: Idli, dosa, and filter coffee.
Things To Do
Heritage excursions
Nature walk
Historical sites
Architectural tours
Cultural tour
Shopping trips
Street food
Local cuisine
Museum visits
Temple visits
%20Large.jpeg)
Beach outing
Nature and wildlife
Best time to visit
The ideal time to explore Surat is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing
Most commonly spoken languages in Surat:
Gujarati and Hindi are the primary languages spoken in Surat. A basic understanding of these languages can enhance your interactions with locals.
View More
Shopping
Discover the best shopping destinations in Surat, offering a blend of traditional and modern merchandise:
- Sahara Darwaja: The place is a paradise for women's clothing, especially sarees, lehengas, and dress materials. Renowned for its wholesale prices, the market bustles during festivals and weddings.
- Chauta Bazaar: Surat's historic and sprawling Chauta Bazaar is a one-stop shop offering clothes, jewellery, spices and utensils. Once a popular diamond destination, it's a haven for wholesale cloth shoppers today.
- Rander Road: The market is a perfect place to shop for exquisite silk sarees and dress materials. While you're there, don't miss the extensive imitation jewellery collection.
- Ghod Dod Road: Ghod Dod Road is a treasure trove of artificial jewellery at unbelievable prices. The market offers bangles, necklaces, and earrings in various designs and colours.
- Dumas Road: Dumas Road boasts several malls and showrooms featuring popular Indian and international brands for clothing and accessories.
Festivals
Surat celebrates a variety of festivals with great enthusiasm and zeal. Here are some of the major festivals celebrated in the city.
View More
Makar Sankranti/Kite Festival
Makar Sankranti, known as Uttarayan in Gujarat, is a vibrant festival celebrated with great zeal in Surat. The city comes alive with kite-flying competitions, where people of all ages participate, filling the sky with colourful kites. Traditional Gujarati delicacies like undhiyu and chikki are enjoyed during this festival, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Navratri
The city is renowned for its extravagant Navratri celebrations, with numerous venues hosting grand garba and dandiya raas events. People dress in traditional attire and dance to the rhythmic beats of the music, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
Sharad Purnima/Chandani Padvo
The festival includes kite flying, cultural performances, and traditional rituals. People take holy dips in the River Narmada and pray to the Sun God. Traditional sweets like tilgud (sesame and jaggery) are prepared, and shared with friends and family to symbolise goodwill and harmony.
Ganesh Chaturthi
The elephant-headed god, Ganesh, is welcomed with great pomp and show during Ganesh Chaturthi. The city is adorned with colourful decorations, and cultural programs are organised to celebrate the festival. Elaborate pandals are erected across the city, and people come together to offer prayers and seek blessings.
Diwali
The festival of lights is celebrated in Surat with much grandeur. The city is illuminated with thousands of lights, and homes are decorated with rangoli and diyas.
More reasons to visit
While Surat offers countless reasons to plan a visit, let's delve into some additional aspects that can enrich your trip.
- Diamond Hub: Surat is renowned as the diamond capital of India, contributing significantly to the global diamond trade. Visitors can explore the intricate world of diamond cutting, polishing, and trading in the city's vibrant diamond markets.
- Riverfront Beauty: Surat boasts a picturesque riverfront, and you can enjoy the scenic beauty along the Tapi River. Relax by the waters, take a boat ride, or simply unwind amidst the serene surroundings, providing a tranquil escape from the urban hustle.
- Dandi Memorial: Pay homage to the historic Dandi Memorial, commemorating Mahatma Gandhi's iconic Salt March in 1930. The memorial is a tribute to India's struggle for independence and offers a reflective space for visitors.
- Surat Castle: Explore the ancient Surat Castle, a historical fort built during the Mughal era. The castle provides a glimpse into Surat's architectural past and offers panoramic views of the city from its strategic vantage points.
