Surat City Travel Guide: Explore Heritage, Markets, Beaches & Modern Attractions
1. Top Places to Visit in Surat:
- Gopi Talav: A serene lake that dates back to the Mughal era, ideal for a peaceful walk.
- Dutch Garden: A historic European-style garden with colonial graves, perfect for history lovers.
- Sarthana Nature Park: Ideal for families, this zoo and nature park is great for a day out with kids.
- Science Centre: Learn about science through interactive exhibits, planetarium, and museum.
- Dumas Beach: A black-sand beach known for its views and rumored to be haunted, attracting both tourists and locals.
- Chintamani Jain Temple: Built in the 15th century, it's famous for its intricate wooden carvings and paintings.
2. Shopping and Malls:
- VR Surat Mall: A premium shopping destination offering international and domestic brands, food court, and entertainment options.
- RahulRaj Mall: A popular mall with shopping, dining, and cinema options.
- Chauta Bazaar: A bustling market, known for textiles, clothing, and traditional items at reasonable prices.
- Ghod Dod Road: The shopping street lined with boutiques and restaurants.
3. Cinema Halls:
- INOX at VR Mall: Enjoy the latest movies in a comfortable setting.
- PVR Cinemas: Located in RahulRaj Mall, offering luxury seating and premium services.
- Cinepolis: Another popular cinema hall for movie lovers.
4. Activities to Do:
- Boat ride at Tapi River: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Surat from a boat.
- Laser Tag and Gaming Zones: Visit places like Timezone at VR Mall for fun gaming experiences.
- Adventure Sports at Dumas Beach: Parasailing, jet skiing, and more activities are available here.
5. Sightseeing Places:
- Surat Castle: Built in the 16th century, this fort offers a glimpse into Surat’s Mughal past.
- Sardar Patel Museum: A museum showcasing art, history, and culture.
- Ambika Niketan Temple: A revered temple dedicated to Goddess Ambika, offering panoramic views of the Tapi River.
6. Hotels:
- The Taj Gateway Hotel: A luxury hotel offering top-tier services, spa, and fine dining.
- Lords Plaza: A comfortable and budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Surat.
- Courtyard by Marriott: A premium hotel known for its modern amenities and central location.
7. Restaurants:
- Sasumaa Gujarati Thali: A must-try for traditional Gujarati cuisine lovers.
- Gopal Locho: Famous for Surat’s local delicacy, Locho, this place is a must-visit.
- Leon Grill: A popular spot for fast food and grills.
8. How to Reach Surat:
- By Air: Surat International Airport is well-connected to major Indian cities.
- By Rail: Surat Railway Station is a major junction on the Western Railway and connects to all parts of India.
- By Road: Surat is connected by national highways and has regular bus services from cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Pune.
9. Historical Importance:
Surat has a rich history as a major port city during the Mughal era. It was a gateway for trade with Europe and was known as the “City of Merchants.” The East India Company also had its initial base here, making Surat an important city in India’s colonial past.
10. Police Stations in Surat:
- Athwa Police Station
- Varachha Police Station
- Surat City Police Headquarters
(For emergencies, dial 100)
11. Hospitals in Surat:
- Kiran Hospital: A state-of-the-art multi-specialty hospital.
- Apple Hospital: Known for emergency and trauma care.
- SMIMER Medical College and Hospital: A renowned government hospital.
12. Markets:
- Rander Road Market: Known for electronics and clothing.
- Chauta Bazaar: Famous for affordable garments and textile products.
- Surat Diamond Market: The hub of India’s diamond trade, offering a variety of diamonds and jewelry.
13. Petrol Pumps and CNG Stations:
- Indian Oil, Essar, HPCL, BPCL petrol pumps are spread across the city.
- CNG Stations: CNG pumps are available at strategic points, such as Palanpur Patia, Udhna, and Piplod.
14. Electric Car Charging Points:
- EV Charging Station at VR Mall
- Charging Points in Essar Petrol Stations
15. Colleges and Educational Institutions:
- Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology (SVNIT): One of India's leading engineering colleges.
- Veer Narmad South Gujarat University: Offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
- L. P. Savani International School: Known for its top-notch facilities and international curriculum.
16. Schools and Play Schools:
- Delhi Public School (DPS), Surat: One of the leading schools with modern facilities.
- Fountainhead School: Known for innovative teaching methods and holistic education.
- Euro Kids: A well-known preschool chain offering early education.
17. Bus Depots and Railway Stations:
- Surat Railway Station: A major railway hub.
- CBS Bus Stand (Central Bus Station): Provides interstate and local bus services.
