Surat, the diamond city of Gujarat, sparkles along the banks of the Tapi River. This commercial powerhouse has evolved from a historic trading port into a vibrant metropolis that processes 90% of the world's diamonds. It’s also a hub for the textile trade. And beneath its glittering modern exterior lies a city rich in cultural heritage.
The essence of Surat lies in its remarkable blend of culture and craftsmanship. Tourism in Surat is a journey through heritage buildings, local craft markets, and culinary delights. It’s one of India’s fastest-growing cities, yet it hasn’t lost its old-world flavour. The streets still tell stories of traders and colonial rulers who all left their mark on this port city.
What makes Gujarat Surat Tourism captivating is how it celebrates both commerce and culture with equal passion. The multifaceted city offers an array of authentic travel experiences for history buffs, beach lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
To explore the city to its fullest, check out the all-inclusive tour packages by Surat Tourism. These include everything from accommodation and transportation to guided tours and local insights. We also have a list of top car rental companies in Surat to make your trip to the best tourist places in Surat city and around comfortable. Please fill out the Contact Us form to get in touch.
History of Surat
The origin of Surat can be traced to the old town of Suryapur. It emerged as a major seaport during the Mughal era in the 16th century. By the 17th century, Surat had transformed into one of the most prosperous trading ports in the world. It started attracting merchants from Arabia, Persia, Europe and beyond. Eventually, the British East India Company established its first factory here.
The city's strategic location made it a coveted prize for various powers. The Portuguese attempted to control it, the Marathas contested it, and the British eventually dominated its trade until India’s independence. Today, Surat is one of the largest cities in the country. It has also transformed into one of India’s cleanest cities while carefully preserving its history.
Places to Visit in Surat
Surat tourist places create a vibrant array of experiences that extends far beyond its commercial reputation. The city offers everything from historic monuments and serene gardens to cultural sites and pristine beaches that surprise all visitors.
Surat Castle stands as the city's most iconic landmark. This massive structure beside the Tapi River was built in 1546 to protect the bustling port. Even though this fort now houses various offices, its imposing bastions and historic architecture still command attention. The Dutch Garden Cemetery is another ancient structure in Surat. It presents a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into colonial history.
Then, the Chintamani Jain Temple showcases exceptional architectural craftsmanship through its intricate wooden carvings and detailed mirrorwork. Its stunning interiors, adorned with elaborate paintings, create an aura of magnificence. Other notable temples to explore during Surat India tourism include Ambika Niketan Temple, Swaminarayan Temple, and ISKCON Temple, all representing the diverse spiritual heritage of Surat.
If you want to dive into Surat’s history, the Sardar Patel Museum is a must-visit. It occupies a beautiful colonial building and houses an impressive collection consisting of tribal artefacts, old paintings and faded manuscripts. The museum provides context for Surat's evolution across various periods, making it easier to understand the city a little better.
The Science Centre also ranks among the top tourist places in Surat. It has interactive exhibits that engage everyone with scientific principles and technological innovations. And the planetarium here runs shows that make astronomical concepts entertaining. Jagdishchandra Bose Aquarium, one of the oldest aquariums in India, is another local favourite.
Apart from all those, Gopi Talav is a popular recreational spot for locals. The landscaped gardens, boating facilities, and entertaining activities offer a break from the bustling city life. The beautiful promenade at Tapi River Front is also a beloved destination on Surat tourist places list.
And just on the outskirts of the city, Sarthana Nature Park provides a green sanctuary. Its well-maintained pathways and picnic areas make it ideal for leisurely afternoons. It also houses various animal species and a diverse plant life. Sneh Rashmi Botanical Garden is another green tourist destination in Surat that’s worth visiting.
Dumas Beach, too, is counted among the popular Surat city tourist places. This black-sand beach comes alive during sunset as families gather together to enjoy the sea breeze. Food stalls serving local delicacies are abuzz during that time.
Other Activities and Experiences
Beyond established attractions, tourist places in Surat offer a range of enriching experiences for people with diverse interests. Families travelling with children will appreciate the Amaazia Water Park. It stands out as a premier amusement park with thrilling wet slides and wave pools. Aqua Imagicaa and Black Bunny are other popular entertainment destinations in the city.
Day trips for Gujarat Tourism near Surat significantly expand the city’s appeal. Dandi village (60 km) near Navsari holds historical significance as the destination of Mahatma Gandhi's Salt March. Bardoli (35km) and Kabirvad (80 km) are other must-visit tourist places around Surat. For coastal experiences, Tithal Beach (95 km) offers a lively atmosphere with amusement facilities.
If you’re looking for eco-tourism near Surat, Nature Club Eco Farm is a suitable option. It’s right on the outskirts of the city. Kevdi (75 km), Padam Dungri (95 km), and Devghatt (105 km) are other nearby sites for eco tourism in Surat. The nearby hill station of Saputara (about 160 km away) and Vansda National Park (approximately 100 km away) are also popular among nature lovers. They provide a complete change of scenery from what’s available at various tourist places near Surat.
Surat Tour packages also let you shop for local specialities. The city's markets blend traditional commerce with modern retail, offering items such as Surat diamonds and handcrafted decor items. Beautiful zari work, silk sarees and khadi fabrics are popular as well. Then, street food stalls offer local delicacies such as locho, ghari and undhiyu, among other dishes.
How to Reach Surat
Here are various ways to reach Surat and explore its diverse tourist attractions:
By Air: Surat Airport (about 15 km from the city centre) offers flight connectivity to the region. It has flights from Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai and a few other cities. Ahmedabad Airport (260 km away) offers better connectivity to all corners of India. From the airport, you can book a cab/taxi from the top car rental companies in Surat for a comfortable trip around.
By Train: Surat Railway Station (located close to the city centre) offers excellent rail connectivity across India. It’s one of the busiest stations in Gujarat, with multiple express and superfast trains for Mumbai, Pune, Delhi and countless other cities. Several Shatabdi and Rajdhani also offer faster travel options for Surat. Local transportation options for tourists visiting Surat include cycle rickshaws/auto-rickshaws, city buses, and cabs/taxis.
By Road: Surat is seamlessly connected to major cities via National Highways, making road travel particularly attractive. State transport buses and private luxury coaches both offer regular AC and non-AC buses from nearby cities. You can also self-drive or rent a cab to explore the landscape at your own pace. Ahmedabad is 260 km, Mumbai is 300 km, and Indore is 450 km away from Surat.
Surat has successfully balanced its commercial allure with cultural richness, offering various tourist attractions with interesting experiences. From architectural heritage to eco tourism, these Surat tourism places surprise and delight everyone. Surat Tour packages provide comprehensive access to all these travel experiences, combining comfort with reliability in exploring the best tourist places near Surat in Gujarat. Fill out the Contact Us form to get in touch with our travel experts.
