Things To Do
in Sūrat
Sūrat, known as the diamond city of India, is famous for its vibrant textile industry and rich cultural heritage. The city boasts stunning architecture, including ancient temples and modern skyscrapers, showcasing a blend of historical charm and contemporary development. Sūrat is also renowned for its delicious street food and lively markets that reflect the city's culinary diversity.
Surrounded by the Tapi River, the city's scenic beauty is further enhanced by its proximity to the Arabian Sea.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Surat Castle, where you can marvel at the impressive architecture and learn about the city’s rich maritime history. After exploring the castle, stroll through the nearby Dutch and Armenian cemeteries, offering a glimpse into the diverse past of Surat. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local café, savoring delicious idlis or dhoklas paired with spicy chutneys.
In the afternoon, head over to the Sardar Patel Museum, where you can delve into the cultural heritage of Surat through its extensive collection of artifacts. After absorbing the history, make your way to the bustling local markets, where you can shop for textiles, diamonds, and other traditional handicrafts. Don’t miss tasting the famous Surti locho, a savory snack, as you explore the vibrant market scene.
As the sun sets, enjoy a serene boat ride on the Tapi River, taking in the stunning views of the city’s skyline. After the ride, stroll along the riverfront promenade, where you’ll find street vendors selling local delicacies. Conclude your day with dinner at a rooftop restaurant, indulging in traditional Gujarati thali while enjoying panoramic views of the city.
Begin your day with a visit to the Swaminarayan Temple, an architectural marvel that showcases intricate carvings and vibrant colors. Participate in the morning Aarti, a spiritual ceremony that will immerse you in the local religious practices. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful walk in the temple gardens, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Next, visit the ISKCON temple, where you can learn about the teachings of Lord Krishna and enjoy a simple vegetarian lunch offered at the temple. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby local streets, filled with small shops selling religious artifacts and traditional sweets. Make sure to try the famous khadi pakoras from a nearby stall, a popular local snack.
As the evening approaches, attend a devotional singing session at the ISKCON temple, which will provide a unique experience of local spirituality. Afterward, visit the local market to observe the lively evening activities, with families shopping and enjoying street food. End your day with a visit to a nearby café known for its delicious chai and snacks, perfect for mingling with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within city | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-30 |
| 🛍️Shopping for local textiles | $10-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Vibrant street food scene
- Affordable cost of living
- Friendly local people
- Hot summers may be uncomfortable for some
- Limited nightlife options
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
- "Kem chho?" - How are you?
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Maja ma?" - Are you enjoying?
Places to Visit in Sūrat
Visit one of these nice places.
A historical fort with stunning architecture, perfect for capturing picturesque views of the surrounding area.
An architectural marvel that provides an excellent backdrop for both history and architecture-themed photography.
A vibrant market area filled with colorful stalls and lively crowds, ideal for capturing the essence of local life.
Food in Sūrat
Sūrat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory steamed cake made from fermented rice and chickpea batter, best found at local eateries throughout the city.
Must-Try!
A popular snack made from steamed gram flour, served with a tangy chutney, available at street stalls across Surat.
A mixed vegetable dish cooked with spices and special recipes, often enjoyed during winter festivals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling street filled with various food stalls offering local delicacies like pav bhaji and vada pav.
Known for its vibrant atmosphere and numerous street food options, this market is ideal for trying out different snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to greet and show respect to elders. Using titles like 'ji' after names is a sign of respect.
While Sūrat is a modern city, it is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and local communities.
Safety
Tipping in Sūrat
Ensure a smooth experience
In India, tipping is generally appreciated. In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is customary if service charges are not included.
Many places accept cash, but digital payments like UPI and credit cards are widely used in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures from November to February make it the ideal time to visit for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer months can be very hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C. It's best to stay hydrated and plan activities for early morning or late evening.
The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains, providing lush scenery but also occasional flooding; it's advisable to check weather forecasts before visiting.
Sūrat at Night
Hiking in Sūrat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 35 km from Sūrat, these hills provide scenic trails for both casual walkers and serious hikers, along with beautiful views.
This nearby lake offers gentle hiking trails and a peaceful environment, perfect for nature lovers.
Airports
How to reach Sūrat by plane.
Located approximately 11 km from the city center, Surat Airport offers domestic flights and is well-connected to major cities in India.
About 250 km away, this major airport in Ahmedabad serves international and domestic flights, providing broader connectivity.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Surat's population belongs to the Gujarati community, known for their business acumen and rich cultural traditions.
A blend of various cultural backgrounds, including Jains, Parsis, and Muslims, contributing to the city’s vibrant societal fabric.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Surat, with many local clubs and streets bustling with young players enjoying the game.
Badminton has gained popularity, with several clubs and tournaments held regularly across the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sūrat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Sūrat is largely vegetarian-friendly, with plenty of options available. Many local restaurants cater to vegetarian diets with delicious traditional dishes.