Things To Do
in Sūrat
Surat, Gujarat is a fast-growing port city known for its textile and diamond industries, as well as its lively markets and historic lanes. Nestled on the Tapti River near the Arabian Sea, it blends centuries of trade with modern development. The city offers a colorful street food scene, a strong Gujarati cultural identity, and a gateway to nearby hill stations like Saputara.
Visitors will find a mix of heritage sites, bustling bazaars, and riverside sunsets that illustrate Surat's unique energy.
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 | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🛏️Hotel (3-star) per night | $25-70 |
| 🚆Local transit ride (single journey) | $0.5-2 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordability and value for money
- Rich textile and diamond industry heritage
- Vibrant markets and street food
- Gateway to nearby natural and hill-country destinations
- Hot summers and high humidity
- Crowds in peak seasons and market areas
- Limited nightlife compared to metro cities
- Infrastructure gaps in some older neighborhoods
- "Kem cho?" - How are you?
- "Tamaru naam shu chhe?" - What is your name?
- "Hu Surat ma chu." - I am in Surat.
- "Tame shu khavanu chho?" - What would you like to eat?
- "Dhaniya mate sharu karo?" - Please start with a vegetable dish.
- "Aapdu ghanu saaru lagtu chhe." - I am enjoying my time here.
Places to Visit in Sūrat
Visit one of these nice places.
Long black-sand beach with dramatic sunsets and sea-wash; ideal for golden-hour photography and candid beach life.
Wide riverfront with promenades, boats, and city silhouettes—great for dusk and night photography.
Colorful storefronts and busy lanes bursting with textiles and crafts; vibrant street photography opportunities.
Historic gates and remnants offering moody, historical-shot opportunities, especially at dawn or dusk.
Food in Sūrat
Sūrat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A soft, savory chickpea batter dish served with chutneys and farsan—best found at street stalls near Sardar Market.
Must-Try!
Seasonal mixed vegetables and tubers slow-cooked in a cilantro-based masala; a winter specialty worth seeking at traditional Gujarati kitchens.
Classic Gujarati flatbreads and gram-flour cakes common at many eateries; pair with chutneys and kadhi.
Lentil stew with dumplings, a comforting staple found in homes and traditional restaurants.
Savory-fresh fried fafda paired with sweet jalebi; a popular snack during cooler months.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Beachfront stalls offering chaat, fried snacks, and refreshing coconut water with sea views.
Dense lanes packed with snack stalls—locho, fafda, jalebi, bhaji, and more; great for an evening bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove shoes where required and respect local customs.
A respectful Namaste or a simple hello is appreciated; handshake is common with acquaintances.
In many Gujarati contexts, use the right hand for eating and serving; avoid pointing with feet or utensils at people.
Safety
Tipping in Sūrat
Ensure a smooth experience
In mid-range to upscale dining, a 5–10% tip is typically appreciated if service charge is not included. For street vendors and casual eateries, tipping is optional and at your discretion.
Cash is widely accepted, with cards and mobile wallets (PhonePe, Paytm, Google Pay) increasingly common in shops and restaurants. Expect some street stalls to prefer cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
From March to June, temperatures soar into the 40s °C with high humidity. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening.
July to September brings heavy rain and humidity. Roads can flood in low-lying areas; carry a compact umbrella and waterproof bags for electronics.
October to February is mild and pleasant (roughly 15–25°C). This is the best season for outdoor exploration, markets, and photography.
Sūrat at Night
Hiking in Sūrat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and scenic viewpoints in the Saputara hills; popular for day trips and weekend getaways from Surat.
Rugged trails with waterfalls and lush greenery in the Dang hills; best in the cooler months.
Airports
How to reach Sūrat by plane.
Domestic flights and limited international connections; located about 11–14 km from the city center; easy taxi or auto access.
Primary gateway in Ahmedabad; major domestic and international hub; about 230–270 km from Surat with rail or road connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major demographic group; strong ties to textile and diamond industries; predominantly Hindu with a significant Muslim community.
Numerous migrant workers from other Indian states drawn by industry and commerce; cosmopolitan neighborhoods and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local clubs and matches are common, especially on weekends.
Played widely among youth and in parks; occasional local leagues and school competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sūrat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Surat is vegetarian-friendly with abundant thalis, kadhi, dal, and breads. Look for pure-vegetarian labeling and ask about cross-contamination at street stalls.