Surat

The city of Surat, in Gujarat, has a lot to offer for travellers seeking a break from the humdrum.  This vibrant Diamond city in Gujarat offers much to see and soak for travellers. From a visit to the vast salt expanse to retreating to the forests of Gir close by and from cultural heritage of the temples of Surat to modern art, the city has something for everyone to stay inspired. The city of Surat, makes for a good base to explore the many offerings of the state of Gujarat, like the lions in the Gir Forest and the Asiatic Wild Asses of the Little Rann of Kutch as well as a wonderful travel getaway in itself.

Surat, often called the Diamond City, for it has been the trade centre for diamonds for centuries! The city sparkles with its natural beauty, the hot springs, temples, tree-lined roads and access to some of the most beautiful beaches. Believed to have been settled as Suryapur in 1516, Surat city of today is a marvel to behold and a visitor’s delight. There is celebration in the city of Surat, almost all through the year. From the vibrant Navratri celebrations across the many shrines dedicated to the Hindu goddesses at the beginning of the year to the festive colours of the Garba dance in October-November.

There’s the enthusiastic kite-flying festival in January which attracts travellers from all over the world and then there are music festivals after the rains. Surat has the tropical weather with hot summers, delightful winters, plenty of rain during the monsoon along with a sparkling although short, springtime. The city attracts travellers from all corners of the world through October to March which is the best time to visit the state. The lovely beaches around Surat, like Dumas and Suvali, make for a wholesome travel experience at any time of the year.