Surat, often called the Diamond City of India or the Textile City in the Southwest of Gujarat, is today known for its textiles and diamonds. Beneath all this pomp and glitter lies a city of great history and glory. Apart from the diamond business, the city is known for its vibrant culture, scrumptious food and secluded beaches.

ETYMOLOGY 

The city of Surat was built by a wealthy merchant named Gopi. At first, the city had no name and was simply called a new place. Later, Gopi sent a request to the king of Gujarat for the town's name as "SURAYAPUR" but the name smacked too much of Hinduism to the Muslim king and he altered the name as Surat to it. The city is located on the river Tapi and has about 6 km long coastal belt along the Arabian Sea. Due to this reason, Surat has become the most important trade link between India and many other countries. There are many other names of Surat in history. Surat is referred to as Surate or Soorat in some literature. Presently, Surat reached the highest point of prosperity. It is also known to be the world's largest diamond manufacturing centre. With an equally varied heritage of the past, it has the most vibrant present.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN SURAT

HISTORICAL LANDMARKS..

DUTCH GARDEN - A major attraction sight in Surat, which is an oasis of greenery amidst the chaos and cacophony of the city. The garden gives insight into vibrant flower beds, sparkling fountains and vast sprawling grassy carpeted lawns and boasts well-manicured gardens. Flocked by Dutch gardens and English explorers on every day, the garden has been designed in European style.

SURAT CASTLE - Featuring Portuguese-style architecture at its top edge, the castle represents one of the chief historical monuments of Gujarat. The castle is tucked proudly on the banks of river Tapi.

ISCKON TEMPLE - Renowned as one of the largest complexes built in town. Although the architecture of the temple appears simple in its appearance, yet it defers a captivating style to impress your eyes. The main shrine of the temple features some beautifully carved idols both of Lord Ram and Lord Krishna.

SEA VIEWS AND NATURE PARK

PEACEFUL AND COMFORTING MARINE BEACHES... 

DUMAS BEACH - The beach itself defines its uniqueness from all other Indian beaches. This is because this place is adorned with black sand and an uncanny atmosphere, locals often associate many haunted stories too with the beach.

SUVALI BEACH - Snuggled away from the chaos of the city the beach is one of the most serene places to see in Surat. The vibes of the beach are quite comforting and the sunsets make it even more peaceful. One can experience peacefulness far from the other noisy beaches.

DANDI BEACH - This scenic beach is known for the "Salt Satyagraha Movement" which was started by Mahatma Gandhi. Each and every nook of the beach is covered with sparkling golden sands and offers tranquility to the visitors soothe your eyes with this picturesque view of the beach tops the list of best tourist places to see.

SARTHANA NATURE PARK - Best place for wildlife seekers sprawling over 81 acres of land. It features a wide variety of fauna like the Deer, Bengal tigers, Himalayan bears, leopards and other zoological creatures that can be seen here. Apart from this wide range of flora like the mango trees, eucalyptus and casuarina trees that adds light to a beautiful park. Something that sets this park apart from other nature abodes is the Tapi River that flows adjacent to the park. It gives a combination of serenity and freshness.

TASTES OF SURAT 

THE FOODIE PARADISE...

There is an old saying in Gujarati "Surat nu Jaman ane Kashi nu maran"  which means eat in Surat and die in Kashi for the ultimate experience of the soul. Surat has all that you can want and many more culinary delights to offer. From star hotels to restaurants and cafes to walking down through the lanes with the hawkers by the footpath selling mouth-watering dishes.

  KHAMAN - Khaman is the most popular steamed snack made from fermented gram flour. Just a few minutes of basic ingredients recipe results in a delicious and satisfying snack. It is a good source of protein and fibre and it's low in fat. That's what makes Khaman unique in its simplicity.

  DHOKLA - Dhokla is similar to Khaman made from fermented rice and lentil batter. A popular light meal snack served with a variety of chutneys known for its unique flavor and texture.

JALEBI AND FAFDA - A sweet and salty combination of snacks often enjoyed together complement each other perfectly. Jalebi a sweet deep-fried pastry and Fafda a savoury deep-fried snack are simply irresistible.

KHAVSA - It's basically a desi style "KHOW SUEY" famous for its flavour served hot, especially during breakfast. This unique recipe has noodles, Gujarati papdi, spring onions, some chutneys and the main ingredient thick coconut gravy.

SURAT'S VIBRANT AND COLOURFUL CULTURE

The culture of Surat is very diverse because people from other states came here to trade and in search of fortune. All these people collectively refer to as "Surtis ". People here are generally of a soft nature and many people refer to the unique culture of Surat as  "Surti Culture". The language that is spoken here is Surti Gujarati. Surat people celebrate all the major festivals with great pomp and fervour. 

Navratri

Navratri is the most important festival though. During this occasion, people of all age groups come out to celebrate by performing the "Garba dances". The festival is commemorated for 9 long days to perform a puja to one of the 9 forms of Goddess.

KITE FESTIVAL

The festival of kites is also known as Uttarayan in Gujarat celebrated all over the State. A number of colourful kites can be seen flying in the sky. People here are most crazy about that is Makar Sankranti in Surat. The celebration goes on for three days. One can have a good time with cherish kite flying festival. 

CONCLUSION

Surat is a city that perfectly blends its historical past and vibrant present, offering something for everyone whether you are a nature lover, foodie, explorer or travel enthusiast, Surat promises a delightful experience.

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