Surat, formerly known as Suryapur, is the eighth largest city in India and the administrative capital of Surat district. The city proper is the one of the most populous cities in the world. Surat lies on the left bank of the Tapti River, 21 km from its mouth. The Population of Surat with its twin city Navsari is above 6.5 million in an area of 4,207 km2. A moat divides the older parts of the city, with its narrow streets and neat houses, and the newer suburbs.
The city is largely recognised for its textile and diamond businesses. The diamond capital of the world, 92% of the world's diamonds are cut and polished in Surat. Surat is also the Second cleanest city in India after Chandigarh, but this distinction came under severe stress after a bout of endemic bubonic plague. It has one of the highest GDP growth rates in India at 11.5% as of 2008. Surat was the once the largest city in India and also her primary port during the Mughal period, a distinction it lost to Bombay during the British Raj.
During the reign of the Mughals, Surat port was used as the gateway to Makkah for pilgrims of the hajj from India's inner areas. The Makkai Pool and the Mughal Sarai guest house for hajjis (pilgrims) are clear proof of this historical aspect to Surat.
Where to Stay:
The Gateway Hotel is the only 5-star hotel. Lords Plaza, The Gateway Hotel, Best Western Yuvraj, Hotel Central Excellency and Hotel Ginger Surat are midrange options. The Budget Inn Hospice, Decent Hotel, Happy Hail Hotel are some from the budget class.
What to See:
The Castle, on the banks of Tapti near the old bridge; The Dutch, English and Armenian Cemeteries in Karatgam Road; Chintanamani, a 400 hundred year old wooden temple at Shahpor; Dutch Garden: The ancient Dutch gardens, the Dutch cemetery and Makaipul, the ancient original port from where the ships sailed to other parts of the world are other major attractions; The Old Fort. The Old Fort was built by Muhammed Tughlak in the 14th century to fortify the defence against the Bhils; Sardar Patel Museum. This museum was established at the beginning of the 20th century and has a collection of over 10,000 specimens of art and craft; Rangupavan. An open air theatre with 18 meters by 10.5 meters stage and a capacity of around 4000 spectators. This is one of the biggest theatres in the country; The entire city on the roads (esp. the Dumas Road) on Sunday Evenings. It is amazing to see people spreading bed sheets by the roadside to enjoy the evening with Lari Food adding spice and Dandi, a name etched in Indian history after the famous 'Dandi March Salt Satyagraha' launched by Gandhiji in March 1930 CE.
Where to Eat:
Surat has over a hundred eateries. Of the 23 breakfast hotels, 3 are recommended: little ltaly, Coffee Culture, Only Parathas. Some special and unique dishes of Surat include Locho, Surti Undhiyu, Rasawala Khaman, Cold coco and Surti Ghari. Many of the popular types of food of the state of Gujarat originated in this region. Contrary to popular belief, Surti cuisine is not as sweet as standard Gujarati food, but quite spicy. Indian Curry, Klassic, Deewan-e-Khaas provide traditional indian food. Pizza Hut, McDonald's, Subway are all available. Kandeel Revolving Restaurant is a good place to eat, but not on a daily basis!
How to Get There
By Air:
Surat has a small airport which can only be used by turbo-prop aircraft.
By Rail:
Surat is on the main Mumbai-Delhi (the erstwhile Grand Trunk route). It is close enough to Mumbai by train (263km, 4.15 hrs) for commuters to work a 17 hour day; It is easier to commute to Ahmedabad (130 km, 2.15 hrs). Traffic is heavy.
By Road: Surat’s preeminent position close to the National Highway 8 ensures pan-India connectivity, through a multi-lane link.
