Surat

Surat, on the banks of the Tapi River, is one of India’s fastest-growing cities and the heart of the country’s diamond-cutting and textile industries. Historically, it was an important port where European traders first landed, shaping early colonial trade routes. Today, the city is known for its entrepreneurial energy, lively food scene and relatively clean, organised infrastructure. Modern flyovers, riverfront stretches and lakeside promenades sit alongside old quarters with mosques, havelis and heritage buildings. Surat’s street food – locho, undhiyu, ponk, ghari and countless snacks – is a big draw, especially for evening outings. The city also acts as a gateway to coastal belts like Dumas and Suvali beaches and pilgrimage routes going towards South Gujarat and Dangs. Shopping for saris and dress materials is almost a ritual for many visitors. Well-connected by road, rail and air, Surat is easy to combine with Vadodara, Mumbai, Saputara and Saurashtra circuits. For Ghoomein users, Surat can be presented as a lively urban stop where business, food and short leisure breaks comfortably mix.