What comes to your mind when you think about Surat.don’t scratch..what do you think you’ll be doing when you got to visit a city like Surat? You’ll be thinking yes, it’s just like a normal city where normal people live and earn. No, it’s far more than that. But first let’s know something about the city, how it got flourished to become one of the fastest growing metropolis in the nation.
Situated on the south bank of the Tapi River, about 14 km from the sea, Surat has always attracted traders and merchants from afar. Its finely carved mosques, Parsi agiaris, European tombs and colonial houses all testify to the eclectic mix of ethnic communities that continue to live in the city.It is the second largest city in Gujarat with a population of about 4.5 million people.The city is fondly referred to as the Diamond capital of the world due to the fact that 92 % of the world’s diamond is cut in the city. It has also been labeled as the Manchester of the east due to its large textile industry. The people of Surat proudly calls themselves as “Surtis”.
Here’s the list of top ten things that you can do when you are in Surat :
1) Relax and unwind at Beaches
Tithal beach is 88 KM far from Surat and 10 miles from Valsad. It is one of the most visited beaches in India and guests who want to soak in the Indian sun can enjoy this location after a hard week of sightseeing. While at it, make sure you make several friends…you might get invited into an Indian party !!
2) Unravel the mystery of Dumas Beach
Located 21 kilometers south-west of Surat, this traditional picnic spot is much more than just a sandy beach. Dumas is meant to be one of the most haunted sites in Gujarat, being a known burial ground that is believed to have witnessed strange activities. The beach is an exotic semi-urban expansion that flows into the Arabian Sea. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the sunset while munching on local snacks like the famous Lashkari Tomato Bhajiya. Travelers can also visit the Dariya Ganesh Temple located next to the beach.
3) Historical Visit To Surat Castle
Surat Castle is an old 16th-century monument that served as a defensive fortification, built by Khudawand Khan. With large round towers occupying its corners, the Old Fort is Surat’s most prominent landmark, constructed to secure the port city against Portuguese invasion. A significant heritage site, the Old Fort is an epitome of architectural brilliance, showcasing an incredible construction strengthened by the use of iron strips and melted lead. Those who gets fascinated by large buildings and forts, this place is a must visit for them.
4) Uncover European Relics At The Dutch Gardens
Admire a few European heirlooms in a place that offers a beautiful cultural experience, being one of the most remarkable historical landmarks in Surat: The Dutch gardens. The garden is a well designed enclosure of historical significance, encompassing ancient mausoleums, massive Domes and awe inspiring galleries. Located near Kataragam Gate, the Dutch Gardens are part of the Dutch Cemetery, which is a resting site for famous figures like Baron Adrian Van Reede, who died in 1691. During your tour you can also visit the Anglican Church, adorned with a ten feet high illuminated cross. Mesmerized right on reading this, imagine what will happen when you’ll be visiting it.!!
5) Shopping: Hit The Bazaars and the Malls
Surat, which is a textile jackpot, is home to a line of emporiums and handicraft centers bustling with tourists and locals. Hit the streets of Rander and Chauta Pul and you’ll discover gold souks along the way. The Ratna Sagar Jewelers on Ghod-Dod Road adorn their customers with beautiful gem stones and colorful beads. Sneak a peek at the authentic zari work in the New Textile Market as you pick out exquisitely designed saris and other traditional wear. Come across local farmers on Ghod-dod Road as they spread out in numerous stalls, each selling a unique collection of farm grown food. For souvenir shopping, Surat boasts an ethnic miscellany of wood carvings, ivory decor and traditional patchwork. While the former provides a rich experience of traditional markets and street shopping, the Gaurav Path, Surat -Dumas Road has beautiful and big recreational malls where you can involve in fun activites and enjoy to your heart. These include Rahul Raj mall, VR Mall, Surat Central etc.
6) Bird-Watching At Gavier Lake
Step inside the exotic wetlands of Gavier Lake, a known bird-watcher’s paradise. For wildlife enthusiasts, the rich diversity of migratory birds that flock to the waters of Gavier Lake are a great sight to catch in the early morning. The wetland, which was once facing habitat destruction, was actually saved by a bunch of village kids. Now protected by the Surat Municipal Corporation, the wetland serves as a natural habitat for endemic bird species like the Indian Peafowl, Purple Sunbird, Small Blue Kingfisher, Yellow fronted pied Woodpecker and others. Catch mesmerizing views during the monsoon season at this natural setting.
7) Munch On Irresistible Local Snacks
The most important thing to do when you are in Surat. Yes, Surat is known for its relaxed lifestyle and its cuisine. An old saying in Gujarati, “Surat nu Jaman ane Kashi nu Maran“, means “Eat in Surat and Die in Kashi” to have the best for one’s soul. Surat is home to some of the finest restaurants in India. You will get restaurants that have specialized in any dishes.Taste the enticing flavors of Gujarat as you pick up local snacks such as the colorful Sev Bhel or fill your stomach with an enormous Gujarati thali. Surat offers mouth-watering treats to hungry travelers, dishes that are simply hot and tangy on your taste buds.
Popular dishes include Locho (a favorites of the local, steamed snack made of gram flour and lentils, steamed to be eaten immediately.) which is best served at Shreeji Locha, Parle Point. Feeling a bit drowsy or want your daily dose of tea or coffee, head to Chamunda Chai Centre on Ring Road, it serves the best tea in the city and is opened 24*7. For coffee lovers, there are many cafes around the city, but for enjoying the pure and the best coffee, head to Meraki-The Coffee House on the Piplod Main road. Other perennial dishes includes Chessi angoori – a dish made of cheese and gravy, “ghari” (a type of sweet), petis,undhiyu, rasaawala khaman, Surati Khaman (spicy), Sarasiya Khaja, Khavsa, Aloopuri, Sosyo(soda) and surati Chinese. Quite delicious right, and mouth watering too..I know how it feels.
8.) Have A Fun Weekend At Jagdishchandra Bose Aquarium and Surat Causeway
From brackish to marine organisms, you’ll find a diversity of aquatic species at the Jagdishchandra Bose Aquarium, which is a delightful outing for children. The multi-disciplinary ecosystem tanks house over 100 species in their underwater sanctuary, from exotic species like the Angel fish to freshwater Piranhas. While the first and second phase of the center include as jellyfish pool and a shark tank, the third phase will house a dolphin tunnel pool. The aquarium is a great entertainment spot for outsiders who love catching a glimpse of aquatic ecosystems. Surat causeway host various sports and fun related actvities and also hosts water sports like jet skiing, Boat riding, Kayak sailing, etc.
9.) Chant Your Prayers At ISKCON Temple
ISKON Temple in Surat is a place for finding spiritual significance as you visit the religious shrine of Shri Shri Radha Damodar. From the moment you step inside this temple, you feel an overpowering divine presence of Lord Krishna. The fact that the temple is located in the scenic surrounding of River Tapi makes it even more ideal to say your silent prayers. It does not matter whether you are a Hindu devotee or not – all that matters is that in the temple, you can communicate with God. Showcasing architectural brilliance, the temple was established back in 1979, it flaunts exclusive craftsmanship on the interiors, with heavily defined walls and a well structured layout.
10.) Discover Art At Rang Upavan Open Air Amphitheater
Rang Upavan Open Air Amphitheater is Surat’s most acknowledged jewel, showcasing Gujarati culture and tradition. This cultural stage is the largest amphitheater in India – it can house over 4,000 people, with an imposing edifice and ancient architectural fittings. Set in a picturesque background, this beautiful theater exhibits cultural programs, Gujarati skits, dance recitals and much more. From musical soirees to theatrical narrations, the amphitheater will keep visitors entertained.
There are many more things to do and places to visit in Surat like the Science Centre maintained by the Surat Municipal Corporation, Sarthana Natural Park, the newly built Amaazia Water Park, Sardar Vallabbhai Patel muesum and many more. The best part is to come and have your dinner and enjoy with your friends and family on the streets of Gaurav Path and University Road just like every other Surti does at evenings of weekends irrespective of class, caste,religion etc.
(P.S. I am a Surti too and I can surely say you’ll be in love with this city and its people once you visit it. So what are you waiting for- Grab your bags, no,not needed and become a part of this beautiful city)