About Surat

Located in the South West of Gujarat, India, Surat is well known for its diamonds and textiles. Behind all the glaring history and astounding glory, Surat has another epic name. The City of Sun God, Surat, was formerly known as Suryapur. It was during the year 990 AD. After the 8th century, Parsis occupied this divine territory during the 12th century.

Soon after, Surat became an important part of the West ruling Chalukya Empire until Qutubuddin Aibak captured this city. An official named Gopi influenced the traders to create a settlement in Surat. Thus, a major trading centre was born in the wealthy western state of India.

The Sultanate of Gujarat has built a wall to prevent the city from destructive forces. Still, the remnants recall the city's glorious past. The monarchs of the Mughal Era, such as Jehangir, Akbar, and Shah Jahan, witnessed this city embark on new trading ventures. Meanwhile, Surat became an important port city of India. As a commercial hub of the Indian subcontinent, it became the departing place for Muslims who take up their soul fulfilling the Mecca Pursuit. The Hajj Yatra.

At times of the British Era, East India Company ships were docked at this popular port. Surat is a trade centre and a major gateway for all waterborne traffic to and from India. Being one of the opulent cities under the British Raj, this port remained a major trading centre until Bombay came into the picture.

Marjan Shami Roza, Parsi Agirayi, Chintamani Jain Temple, Gopi Talav, Vir Narmad Saraswati Mandir, Rander and Jama Masjid, Nav Sai’d Masjid, Udvada, Bilimora, Navsari, and Surat Castle are some of the popular tourist attractions of Surat. Dandi, Suvali, Dumas, Nargol, and Tithal are famous beaches of Surat.

As a famous centre for the diamond trade, Surat is also an established centre for textile businesses. It is believed that more than 92 % of the world’s diamonds are cut, polished, and refined in Surat. The city is also famous for its ostentatious embroidery work, an achievement unmatched by any city in India. And so, it is known as the Embroidery capital of India.

Around 1901, from East African countries like Congo, Sudan, Eritrea, and Ethiopia, many Gujarati Diamond cutters reestablished the old glory of their native terra. By 1970, Gujarati diamonds were successfully landing on the land of opportunities, the United States of America.

Climatic Condition

The climatic conditions are similar to those in most cities of Western India, so October to March is the ideal time to visit Surat. As summers are hot and humid, temperatures can skyrocket to 45 degrees Celsius. Winters are conducive to sightseeing and watching festive activities like Navaratri. At that time of the year, Garba dance and Dandiya Dance are popular artforms to watch out for! The best time to visit Surat is from October to November.

Travel Mode

• Rail : Surat lies on the Jaipur-Mumbai, Delhi-Mumbai, and Mumbai-Ahmedabad routes. A double-decker train that runs between Ahmedabad and Mumbai also connects Surat en route.
• Air : Surat has a domestic airport, with regular flights to Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Delhi. The airport is less than 15 km from the main part of Surat City.
• Road : National Highway 8 connects Surat with the rest ofwestern Indian cities.