Surat, previously known as Suryapur, is situated on the banks of Tapti River. Surat is Gujarat's second largest city, and India's eighth most populated city. Surat represents the business sense of the Gujaratis for which they are known and as such is a fascinating introduction to the state. It was once the chief port of the Mughal Empire and reference point for Mecca. It became the first English settlement in India in 1613. However, with the rise of Bombay, it was stripped of its status as the chief port by the British. A moat divides the older parts of the city, with its narrow streets and handsome houses, and the newer suburbs, is one of the cleanest cities of India. The city is largely recognized for its textile and diamond businesses. With 92% of the world's diamonds are cut and polished in Surat, it became the diamond capital of the world and the textile capital/Manchester textile city of India.
 
General Information
Temperature: Summer: 40-23 C Winter: 33-13 C
Season: Throughout the year
Clothing: Tropical
Languages spoken: Gujarati, Hindi and English
STD Code: 0261
 
How to reach
Air: Surat airport is connected by flights from Delhi.
Rail: Surat is a major railway junction connecting several important cities in India.
Road: Surat is connected by good motorable roads to all places in Gujarat. Some of the major cities are Ahmedabad (267 km), Gandhinagar (300 km), Vadodara (140 km).