Surat - City of Silk and Diamond

Surat is a city in the district with the same name located in the state of Gujarat. Referred as a city of Silk and

Diamond, Surat is considered as an important commercial hub of Gujarat. According to the Sanskrit scriptures, this area was

under the control of the western Chalukyas in AD 610 and remained under Hindu kings till 12th century when a general of

Qutub-ud-din Aibak captured the city. In Mughal times, Surat was the major port from which pilgrims sailed to Mecca.

Presently, Surat is a major industrial city with many textile mills. Besides, Surat is also an important diamond-cutting

centre in India. Situated in Valsad district, Surat is a home to leopards, tigers, panthers and wild boars. Today, Surat has

become a major business city famous for its textile industry.   Textiles for ceremonial and utility purposes, wood

lacquer and ivory handicrafts, embroidery and jewellery had great demand in the world market then. Fine silver and gold

jewellery crafted in Surat is srill a rage here, but this southern most city of the state is today more known for diamond

cutting and polishing industry besides the jari and art silk produced there.   In the recent years, this city of Gujarat

has developed into a major industrial center of India.   Surat used to be an important sea port in India. Trade and

commerce was carried on through this port. If on a tour to Surat, the travelers should take their time out to visit the

historical locations in Surat. They can also visit the museums and parks located in the city. At the end of the day, tourists

can pay a visit to the markets of Surat.  

Places to see:

Hajira Beach: It is situated 28 kms from Surat. The pleasant Hajira Beach is fringed by feathery 'Casurina' trees

and has a comfortable holiday home for visitors.

Navsari:Navsari  is around 29 km south of Surat and known as the headquarters of Parsis since their

settlement in Surat.  

The Old Fort: The Old Fort of Surat was built by Muhammad Tughlak in the 14th century as a defence

fortification against the Bhils.  

Dumas: Dumas is situated at a distance of 16 kilometers from the city of Surat. This place is a popular tourist

attraction in Surat. The tourists coming from outside Gujarat can take accommodation in this beautiful place to relax and at

the same time take care of their health.  

How to reach:

Air: Baroda, situated around 140 km from Surat, is the nearest airport.  

Bus: The city is connected to the national railway system through the Western Railways connecting it to Mumbai

and beyond to the south as well as   New Delhi,   Ahmedabad,   Vadodara   and other cities to the north.

Rail: State transport buses and private luxury coaches connects various centres of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya

Pradesh, Delhi and Rajasthan, Tourist taxis, metered auto rickshaws and the city bus service are main modes for commuting.

In the age of internet, booking of ticket is easy and hassle free. Online travel agencies are always updated with the

price and availability list of different fleet. Bus booking,

Air ticket booking is very convenient online. cheap air tickets is

less time consuming and a great energy saving process.For more deals Deals