Also known as India's “Diamond City”, Surat is a coastal city and a busy commercial centre in Gujarat. Being an important port city, Surat has long been attracting foreign settlers and businesses–from the Mughals to the Britishers and later, the Parsis. To this day, you can find many colonial tombs and castles, which make the glorious past of the city come alive. One of the most striking features dotting the vibrant landscape of Surat is the Old Fort built by Muhammad bin Tughlaq. Built along the banks of River Tapi, the fort is an impressing structure with strong fortifications and strategically placed iron grills.
The second-largest city in Gujarat has beautifully landscaped gardens, historical monuments and a pulsating vibe. History buffs can head over to the Dutch Cemetery where many Dutch, English and Armenian businessmen were buried. You can also explore the 17 BCE pilgrim guest house–Mughalsarai, built by Shah Jahan for pilgrims going to Mecca. The Mughal architecture and domed structure invokes an old-world charm. The city of Surat has a lot to offer in terms of art, culture, history, nature, markets and business. With a flourishing and long past of trade of silks, brocades and spices, Surat has always been the centre of commercial trade. Today, it is famous for its textiles and diamond polishing and cutting industries.
Being a prospering business hub, the city sees many tourists who come here for trade and professional reasons. Whatever be your reason for visiting this city, the hotels in surat are well-equipped to cater to all your needs. There are many high-end hotels here that offer an oasis of luxury and indulgence. Book a stay at The Grand Bhagwati or Hotel Embassy and let their world-class hospitality transport you to a realm of high-living. In case you are travelling to the city on business and do not want to splurge too much on accommodation, then you can check out some budget hotels such as Budget Inn Hospice, Hotel Merit and Tex Palazzo Hotel.
Gujarat is known for its trademark hospitality and cuisine culture, and Surat certainly excels in this department! The Zampa Bazaar Road is a one-stop destination to satiate your taste buds with an array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delights. When here, one must try the regional delicacies such as Surti Ghari, Rasawala Khaman and Locho. For the more adventurous foodies, there is Janta Ice-Cream Parlour which offers creamy, tasty treats in daring flavours of chilly, ginger and coriander. If you are here with your special someone, head over to Dumas Road which is famous for its diamond shops. Ghoddod Road is famous for its textiles shops which store some beautiful zari sarees and tie-and-dye clothes and cloth materials.
With a long history of multi-ethnic influences, Surat offers a colourful concoction of charm and grandeur. Surat is well-connected with all major cities and towns in the country, with regular flights and trains. There are many Delhi to Surat flights which take less than two hours! These flights make it very convenient for travellers, especially those on business, to access the city even on short notice periods. If you are travelling with friends or family, then you can also go on a road-trip to Surat, exploring the rustic countryside!
Martin Wynn
