Surat, often referred to as the “Diamond City of India,” is a major commercial hub in the state of Gujarat. Known for its thriving textile and diamond industries, Surat is one of the fastest-growing cities in India. It has a rich history dating back to the Mughal era and was once an important port for trade. The city is famous for its cleanliness, vibrant street food culture, and tourist attractions like Dumas Beach, the Dutch Garden, and the Sardar Patel Museum. With a blend of tradition and modernity, Surat continues to be a significant contributor to India’s economy and cultural heritage.
1. Shri Ambika Niketan Mandir
Shri Ambika Niketan Mandir is a famous Hindu temple in Surat, Gujarat, dedicated to Goddess Ambika. Built in 1969, it is located on the banks of the Tapi River and attracts many devotees, especially during Navratri. The temple also houses shrines of Lord Shiva, Lord Rama, and Goddess Lakshmi, making it a significant spiritual site in the city.
Location : Shri Ambika Niketan Mandir is located on the banks of the Tapi River in Surat, Gujarat.
Timing : Shri Ambika Niketan Mandir is open to devotees every day. The temple timings are:
Morning: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee to visit Shri Ambika Niketan Mandir.
2. Surat Castle
Surat Castle, also known as Old Fort, is a historic fort in Surat, Gujarat, built in the 16th century by Sultan Mahmud III of the Gujarat Sultanate. It was constructed to protect the city from Portuguese invasions. The fort features strong stone walls, bastions, and an architectural style that reflects its strategic importance. Located near the Tapi River, it offers insights into Surat’s rich history. Today, it stands as a heritage site and a popular attraction for history enthusiasts.
Location : Surat Castle is located in the heart of Surat, Chowk Bazaar, Gopipura, Gujarat, near the Tapi River.
Timing : Surat Castle Timings:
⏰ Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
❌ Monday: Closed
Entry Fee :
Indian Visitors: Ages 3 to 16: ₹50
- Ages 17 to 60: ₹100
- Above 60: ₹50
Foreign Visitors (All Ages): ₹500
3. Jagdishchandra Bose Municipal Aquarium
Jagdishchandra Bose Municipal Aquarium is a popular aquarium in Surat, Gujarat, showcasing a wide variety of freshwater and marine species. It is the first multi-disciplinary underwater aquarium in India, featuring around 100 species of fish, including rare and exotic ones like piranhas, stingrays, and seahorses.
Location : Jagdishchandra Bose Municipal Aquarium is located at Pal, Adajan, Surat, Gujarat 395009, India.
Timing :
- March to October: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- November to February: 10:00 AM – 5:45 PM
Please note that the aquarium is closed on Mondays and remains open on all other days.
Entry Fee :
- Adults (Above 12 years): ₹50
- Children (3 to 12 years): ₹20
- Senior Citizens: ₹30
- Foreigners: ₹400
4. ISKCON Temple Surat
ISKCON Temple Surat, also known as Sri Sri Radha Damodar Mandir, is a famous spiritual and cultural center dedicated to Lord Krishna. Managed by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), the temple is a peaceful retreat for devotees and visitors. It features beautiful idols of Radha-Krishna, serene surroundings, and regular kirtans, bhajans, and spiritual discourses.
Location : 📍 ISKCON Temple Surat is located at Hare Krishna Land, Jahangirabad, Surat, Gujarat 395005, India
Timing : ⏰ Monday to Sunday:
- Morning: 4:30 AM – 1:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Entry Fee : ✅ Free entry for all visitors
5. Aqua Imagicaa
Aqua Imagicaa, formerly known as Amaazia Water Park, is a top-rated amusement and water park in Surat, Gujarat. Inspired by the Amazon rainforest, the park features 16+ international rides, thrilling slides, a wave pool, and relaxing attractions, making it a perfect destination for families and adventure seekers.
Location : 📍 Aqua Imagicaa Located at Opp. Dumbal Transport Godown, Canal Road, Parvat Patiya, Magob, Surat, Gujarat 395010, India.
Timing : 🕙 Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry fee : Regular Tickets:
- Adults (Above 4’6″ height): ₹674 per person
- Children (3’3″ to 4’6″ height): ₹524 per person
- Senior Citizens (60+ years): ₹524 per person
- Children below 3’3″ height: Free Entry
6. Sarthana Nature Park
Sarthana Nature Park is a popular zoological park in Surat, Gujarat, spread over 81 acres. Established in 1984, it is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, lions, leopards, deer, crocodiles, exotic birds, and reptiles. The park is known for its lush greenery and serves as a great place for nature lovers and families.
Location : 📍 Sarthana Nature Park & Zoo Located at Sarthana Jakatnaka, Surat, Gujarat 395013, India.
Timing : ⏰ Sarthana Nature Park & Zoo Timings:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
Entry Fee : 🎟️ Sarthana Nature Park & Zoo Entry Fee:
- Adults (12+ years): ₹30 per person
- Children (5-12 years): ₹20 per person
- Children below 5 years: Free Entry
- Senior Citizens (60+ years): ₹20 per person
7. Snow Park Family Entertainment Centre
Snow Park Family Entertainment Centre is a fun-filled indoor snow-themed attraction in Surat, offering a real snow experience with exciting activities like sledging, ice slides, snowfall, and snow dance floors. It’s a perfect destination for families, kids, and adventure seekers looking for a winter wonderland experience in Gujarat.
Location : 📍 Snow Park Family Entertainment Centre Located at 3rd Floor, Rahulraj Mall, Dumas Road, Piplod, Surat, Gujarat 395007, India
Timing : ⏰ Snow Park Family Entertainment Centre Timings:
- Monday to Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Last Entry: 9:00 PM
Entry Fee : 🎟️ Snow Park Family Entertainment Centre – Entry Fee
- General Admission: ₹400 per person (Includes Jacket, Cap, Socks, Shoes, and Hand Gloves)
- Children Below 36 Inches Height: ₹100 per child
- Children Between 36 to 46 Inches Height: ₹200 per child
- Children Above 46 Inches Height: ₹400 per child
Famous Food In Surat
1. Locho
Locho is a popular street food from Surat, known for its soft, steamed, and spicy texture. It is made from gram flour (besan) and resembles a loose, uneven dhokla, which is why it got the name “Locho” (meaning “mistake” in Gujarati).
Ingredients : gram flour, chana dal and baking soda
2. Ghari
Ghari is a rich and delicious sweet from Surat, traditionally made and eaten during the Chandani Padva festival. It is a heavy, buttery, and creamy dessert loved by locals.
Ingredients : khoya, ghee, dry fruits, and cardamom
3. Surati Ponk
Surati Ponk is a seasonal winter delicacy made from tender jowar (sorghum) grains, which are roasted in sand to give them a soft yet slightly crunchy texture. It is a specialty of Surat and is enjoyed by locals, especially during the winter months (November to February).
Ingredients : Tender Jowar, Ponk Flour, and spices
4. Surti Egg Ghotala
Surti Egg Ghotala is a spicy, creamy, and buttery egg dish popular in Surat. It’s a perfect mix of boiled, scrambled, and mashed eggs, cooked in a rich tomato-based gravy with aromatic spices and lots of butter. The dish is served hot with buttery pav (bread rolls) and is a must-try for egg lovers!
Ingredients : egg, oil and spices
5. Khawsa
Khawsa (or Khao Suey) is a rich, creamy, and mildly spicy noodle dish influenced by Burmese cuisine but loved in Surat. It consists of coconut milk-based curry, soft noodles, and a variety of toppings that add crunch and flavor. It is a favorite street food in Surat and is often customized with vegetarian or chicken variations.
Ingredients : Noodles, coconut milk, gram flour, vegetables and spices
