Surat - Discovering India

Travelling to Surat

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Surat, a pretty good destination in India (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Surat and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Surat, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through India, here's everything to know about Surat for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Surat

Surat is a city located in the state of Gujarat, India. It is situated on the banks of the Tapti River and is the second-largest city in Gujarat after Ahmedabad. Surat is known for its diamond industry and is often referred to as the "Diamond City of India". It is also famous for its textile industry and is known as the "Silk City of India". Surat has a rich history and was an important trading hub during the Mughal era. Today, it is a bustling city with a vibrant culture, delicious street food, and numerous attractions such as beaches, temples, and museums.

What to visit in Surat

Surat is a city located in the western state of Gujarat, India. It is a great destination for tourists who love art, culture, and history. Here are some of the top tourist attractions of Surat: 1. Dumas Beach: Dumas Beach is a popular beach located in Surat. It is a great place to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy some local food. However, swimming is not recommended here due to strong currents.
2. Surat Castle: Surat Castle is a historical castle located in the heart of the city. It was built in the 16th century and is now a popular tourist attraction. The castle houses a museum that displays artifacts from the Mughal and British eras.
3. Tithal Beach: Tithal Beach is a beautiful beach located near Surat. It is famous for its black sand and clear blue water. The beach also has many vendors selling local food and souvenirs.
4. Jagdishchandra Bose Aquarium: Jagdishchandra Bose Aquarium is a popular aquarium located in Surat. It has over 50 tanks of various marine creatures, including sharks, rays, and turtles.
5. Dutch Garden: Dutch Garden is a beautiful garden located in Surat. It was built in the 17th century by the Dutch East India Company and is now a popular spot for tourists. The garden has many different varieties of flowers and trees, and also houses a large pond.
6. Dandi Beach: Dandi Beach is a historical beach located near Surat. It was the site of the famous Dandi March led by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930. The beach also has a memorial dedicated to Gandhi and his movement.
7. Sardar Patel Museum: Sardar Patel Museum is a popular museum located in Surat. It houses many artifacts related to the life and work of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a prominent leader of the Indian independence movement.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Surat, India. Visitors to the city will also find a vibrant food scene, bustling markets, and friendly locals.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in India, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Surat

The best time to visit Surat in India is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C. This is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city. Summer season (April to June) is quite hot and humid, with temperatures often rising above 40°C, making it uncomfortable for outdoor activities. The monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rainfalls, which may cause flooding and disruption in transportation. Therefore, it is best to avoid visiting Surat during this season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Surat

Surat is well-connected through different modes of transportation. Here are some ways to get to Surat: 1. By Air: Surat has its airport, the Surat International Airport, which is well connected to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach your destination.
2. By Train: Surat railway station is one of the busiest railway stations in India and is well-connected to all major cities in India. You can take a train from Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore, or any other major city.
3. By Road: Surat is well-connected by road and is easily accessible from major cities in Gujarat and Maharashtra. You can take a state transport bus or hire a taxi to reach Surat from nearby cities like Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik.
4. By Car: If you are traveling from Mumbai, you can take the Mumbai- Ahmedabad National Highway and reach Surat in about four to five hours.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Surat, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Surat

Sure, here are some typical foods from Surat, India: 1. Locho - A popular street food made from steamed gram flour and served with spicy chutney.
2. Undhiyu - A Gujarati vegetable curry made with a variety of winter vegetables, beans, and topped with crispy bhakri or rotla.
3. Ghari - A sweet dessert made from maida, ghee, and sugar stuffed with khoya nuts and cardamom.
4. Khaman - A steamed, fluffy, and spongy Dhokla made from Besan or gram flour.
5. Surti Undhiyu - A mixed vegetable curry contains a variety of winter vegetables with spices and a touch of sweetness.
6. Ponk Vada - A quick snack made from tender Jowar/Sorghum grains and chickpea flour. 7. Bharthu - A popular street food made up of a crispy hollow shell with a mixture of mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and spices which are topped with sweet tamarind sauce and spicy chutney.
8. Sev Khamani - A popular savory snack made from condensed Khaman Dhokla, sev, and topped with coriander leaves, raw onions, and pomegranate seeds.
9. Rasawala Khaman - Khaman Dhokla cooked in a yellowish-green sweet, and sour gravy made up of chickpea flour batter.
10. Patra - A steamed leafy wrap made from colocasia leaves stuffed with a mixture of gram flour and spices.
You can find general info about typical foods in India here.

Is Surat an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other cities in India, Surat is generally considered to be a relatively affordable destination for tourists. However, the overall cost of your trip will depend on factors such as your travel preferences, accommodation choices, and activities planned. Generally speaking, accommodation and food costs in Surat tend to be more affordable than other major cities in India. That being said, it's always a good idea to do your own research and budget accordingly for your trip to Surat.

Where to find accomodation in Surat

The best areas to find accommodation in Surat for tourists would be near the city center, such as Majura Gate, Ghod Dod Road, Athwa Lines, and Adajan. These areas offer easy access to popular tourist attractions such as Dutch Garden, Science Centre, Surat Castle, and Dumas Beach. Additionally, these areas are well-connected via public transportation and offer a range of accommodations from budget hotels to luxury resorts.
You can check hotel prices at Surat here:
Booking.com

Is Surat a safe destination for tourists?

Surat is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with any city, it is still important to take some precautions. Here are a few tips to stay safe while in Surat: 1. Avoid walking alone in secluded areas, especially at night.
2. Keep your valuables (such as money, passport, and electronics) in a safe place, like a hotel safe.
3. Be cautious around crowded areas where pickpocketing is common like markets and tourist spots.
4. Be aware of your surroundings and don't share your details/personal information with any stranger.
5. If you are travelling solo, it can be wise to book a reputable tour with a guide.
By following these safety measures, you can enjoy your trip to Surat without any worries.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in India here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Surat.

What type of travelers will enjoy Surat the most?

Surat is a city that caters to different types of travelers, but it is particularly well-suited for families and groups of friends. The city offers a wide range of activities and attractions for people of all ages and interests. For couples looking for a romantic destination, there are some beautiful parks and gardens, such as Sarthana Nature Park, which offers a serene environment. Additionally, there are many restaurants and cafes where couples can enjoy a quiet evening together. For young people looking for fun, Surat is known for its nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs where you can party until the early hours of the morning. However, families may also find Surat to be a great destination, as there are several family-friendly attractions, such as Dumas Beach and Sneh Rashmi Botanical Garden. Overall, Surat is an attractive destination for all types of travelers.

How to get around Surat

There are several options for transportation in Surat, India. These include: 1. Local buses: The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) operates a fleet of local buses that cover different parts of the city.
2. Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transportation in Surat. They are ideal for short distances and can be hailed from almost anywhere on the streets.
3. Taxis: Private taxis are also available in Surat. You can hire them for a day or for a specific journey. Some popular taxi services in Surat include Ola and Uber.
4. Local trains: Surat is well-connected by the Indian Railways network. Local trains in Surat are a popular mode of transportation for daily commuters.
5. Bicycles: Surat has recently started offering bicycles on hire for short distances. Such services are ideal for tourists who want to explore the city at their own pace.

What to see around Surat

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Surat: 1. Dumas Beach - a beautiful and serene beach located just 5 km from Surat city.
2. Bardoli - a historic town located around 35 km from Surat known for its role in India's independence movement.
3. Chintamani Jain Temple - a beautiful and ancient temple located in the town of Bhadreshwar, around 60 km from Surat.
4. Ubharat Beach - a lovely beach located around 42 km from Surat known for its white sand and clear waters.
5. Sardar Patel Museum - an interesting museum located in the city of Bardoli, around 35 km from Surat, dedicated to India's first deputy prime minister.
6. Dandi Beach - a historic beach located around 65 km from Surat where Mahatma Gandhi led the famous Salt Satyagraha.
7. Lothal - an important archaeological site located around 85 km from Surat known for its well-preserved ruins of the ancient Indus valley civilization.
I hope this helps!
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