Surat, the commercial capital of Gujarat and the 12th largest metropolis in India, is famous for many things. From historical places to serene beaches, amazing street food to shopping, you have abundant options for exploring the city.

Continue reading to learn more about what Surat is famous for. Note the things you find interesting so you can later use them to plan your ideal holiday to the "Diamond city".

1. The Dutch Garden

Designed as a resting place for Dutch and English explorers when they visited and settled in Gujarat. The garden is adorned with several notable structures, one of which is the Baron Adrian Van Reed with a huge mausoleum. Further, the Dutch Garden welcomes hundreds of visitors daily.

2. Dumas Beach

Among the famous things in Surat, visiting the so-called haunted Dumas beach is one. Situated just 21km from Surat, Dumas beach is very popular among tourists for its picturesque views and iron-rich black sand. Since the black sand seems eerie at first glance, people might have constructed a myth based on that. Nevertheless, this will fascinate you, so visit this beach when you are in town.

3. Sardar Patel Museum

One of the famous places in Surat has to be the Sardar Patel Museum. The building was previously called the Moti Shah Mahal but was converted into a museum in 1890. At the time of its establishment, it was named the Winchester Museum, and only after independence was it renamed to Sardar Patel Museum.

4. Dandi

We all are aware of the historical significance of Dandi. Apart from that, this is a beautiful and serene beach destination. Locals prefer this location for an ideal weekend getaway or even a staycation. Further, you can relax on the beach and enjoy the stunning views of the colourful skies and sapphire water. Another way of exploring Dandi is by taking a quick walk in the neighbourhood and remembering the history the place has experienced.

5. Sarthana Nature Park

Besides beaches and historical places, Surat is famous for its wildlife too. The Sarthana nature park encompasses a vast area of over 80 acres and is a must-visit place when travelling with kids. With abundant deer, lions and leopards, this is also a habitat for some rare species. Moreover, located on the sides of the Tapi River, it elevates the beauty of this place.

6. Tithal Beach

Another beach not to miss in Surat is Tithal beach. Its powdery black sand beach is the main cause of attraction for tourists. If you visit this place during sunset, you can capture a magical golden moment against this black sand. A unique feature of this beach is its accessibility for differently abled persons.

Apart from that, those who like to challenge themselves can try various water activities like riding jet skis, speed boats, etc. In addition, this beach completely transforms during two important occasions. One is the Tithal beach festival, and the other is the International Kite Festival.

7. Swaminarayan Temple

On a religious side, if you are wondering about famous areas in Surat, you must check out the Swaminarayan temple. Belonging to the Swaminarayan sect of Vaishnavism, this temple idolises the incarnation of Nara-Narayana. The temple is built on Ved Road, Shree Sahajanand Chowk and is open every day from 7:30 am to 12 pm and again reopens at 4 pm to 8:15 pm.

8. Amazia Water Park

The ideal way to deal with the unbearable hot summer days in Surat is by spending a fun time at Amazia Water Park. This is in Shubhash Nagar. Although it opened recently, it quickly became popular among locals and tourists. Here you can take part in exciting rides, binge eat at food joints and have a refreshing day.

In addition, the entry charges to this water park are ₹ 800 for children and senior citizens and ₹ 1000 for adults. Further, this water park opens at 10 am and closes at 6 pm.

9. Science Centre

The Science centre in Surat is a highly recommended place to check out with your kids. Alongside a thematic gallery that displays incredible visuals of various subjects like the cosmos and space. This place also has an art gallery with a 3D amphitheatre. Moreover, young onlookers can take part in some easy and fun experiments. All this combined makes this place interesting as well as popular for visitors.

10. Vansda National Park

Among the many famous places in Surat, Vansda National Park is another set in the Sahyadri ranges. This wildlife park covers an area of 24 sq km. Further, those who maintain this forest claim that since it was established, no tree has been cut. This seems believable because, at certain spots, the canopies are so thick that even sun rays cannot penetrate through them. Unlike any other national park, Vansda offers two trail choices. Visitors can either walk or rent a vehicle. So, those looking for some adventures, you can visit this place.

11. Surat Castle

Surat castle dates back to the 16th century. Situated on the banks of the Tapi River, this heritage monument proves that the building has survived several attacks and remains upright. In addition, the motive behind this construction was to adopt defensive measures against the Portuguese. Another name for this popular structure is the Old Fort.

12. Suvali Beach

To answer your query on “what is Surat famous for”, check out the picturesque beaches in the city. Suvali beach is one such ideal location for those looking for a getaway and want to spend some time alone. Since this beach is approximately 20 km away from the city, you can avoid the crowds and noises of the city. So take a stroll or sunbathe on the beach, and try your ways to enjoy isolation. Apart from that, this is nothing less than a paradise for beach lovers.

13. Snow Park

This may sound unreal, but there is a place in Surat that offers you some fun time with real snow. In the Rahulraj Mall in Surat, there is a snow-themed park. Here you can rent warm clothes and participate in various activities and games like sledging, making snow sculptures, and dancing in the snowfall. This famous place in Surat is unknown to many, but if you have some free time, visit the mall and have some fun in the snow.

14. Sneh Rashmi Botanical Garden

To break the monotony of your scheduled life, spend some time in the Sneh Rashmi Botanical Garden. This is an ideal place to enjoy some time amidst nature. This garden is adorned with beautiful yet rare species of flora. Moreover, local people visit here for a day outing or family picnic.

In addition, you have options for fun activities like riding a toy train, a hot air balloon, and many more. The entry for kids below five years, senior citizens and physically abled people is free. While kids between 5-12 years have to pay ₹ 5, others between 12-64 years need to pay ₹ 10.

15. Mughal Sarai

As the name implies, Mughal Sarai is one of the iconic structures in Surat. This Islamic architectural evidence has attracted tourists for ages. Previously it was an inn, but now it has become the offices of Surat Municipality. This is located in the city centre, and it is open for admirers all day long. So whenever you visit this city, take some time to visit this place.

Here is some additional information on what Surat is famous for besides popular tourist destinations.

16. Surati Locho

This popular street food has an interesting name, and you would be surprised to know that this was actually discovered by mistake. Sources state that someone unknowingly made a mistake while following the recipe. Nevertheless, the product that turned out became well accepted and is worth a try.

17. Undhiyu

Surat is famous for this flavourful mixed vegetable dish. It takes eight ingredients to make undhiyu. This preparation is easily one of the traditional food items in Surat. Further, the recipe for this preparation is age-old and not everyone can make it correctly. Nevertheless, you can try this dish at any of the authentic restaurants in the city. However, you must know this is a spicy preparation, which may not be a favourable taste for all.

18. Dhokla

Dhokla is the staple food of Gujarat. People mainly prepare this for breakfast or even as a snack. This soft and spongy savoury cake is a must-try when you are in the city. This dish is one of the native Indian recipes prepared with a fermented batter of lentils and rice. Which is then steamed, once the cake is ready, it is topped with some tempering and grated coconuts.

19. Handwa

Another variant of savoury cake that has its roots in Gujarat is Handvo. The main ingredient of this vegetable cake is bottle gourd. To make handvo, one needs to blend some spices, flour and other vegetables, and bottle gourd. Unlike dhokla, this is not fluffy but rather dense. In most households, you will find this being made very frequently. While visiting the city, search for authentic Gujarati restaurants to grab a bite of handvo.

20. Jewellery Shopping

The synonymous name of Surat is “diamond city”. This city is very popular for its specialisation in jewels. Surat Diamond Bourse is the largest diamond business spread across 35 acres. So if you feel like buying some exquisite diamond jewellery, give it a try when you are in Surat.

Hope you have enough information on what Surat is famous for. Further, the ideal time for visiting Surat is from October to February. During this time, the weather remains pleasant, and you will be able to spend a whole day sightseeing. Keep these points in mind when you plan for your trip to Surat.