A busy commercial city is the second largest city in Gujarat. The city beautifully lies on the banks of River Tapti and was a major trading center in the 17th and 18th century. The Brahmin Gopi founded the city and ascended to the rank of prime minister under the Sultanate of Gujarat, under Mahmud I and Muzaffar II. As Surat was a major trading center, it host to the Dutch and the Portuguese and the city to be distinguished as the first European settlement in India.

Surat has old and illustrious history. It is also mentioned in the epic Mahabharata when Lord Krishna stopped here while his journey from Mathura to Dwarka. It was once under the rule of Chalukyas in 610AD and remained under the Hindu kingdom till 12th century when general of Qutub-ud-din-Aibak captured the city. At the end of 12th century a major portion of Surat was lived by Parsis who brought wealth and prosperity to the city. It was an important trading port under the rule of Akbar.

The city is famous all over world among diamond businessmen. Approximately 90 percent of world's diamonds are cut and polished here. Apart from diamonds it is a hub of manufacturing silk, chemicals, synthetic fiber and man made fiber. Shopping in Surat is one of tourist attractions besides some interesting places to see.

Sights And Activities

Old Fort
The fort was built in the 14th century by Muhammad Tughlak for the defense against the Bhills. The architecture is impressive and with strong walls and iron bars.

Hajira
This is a renowned health resort in Surat, lies on the south west of the region of the Arabian Sea. It has two wells rich in iron and sulphur. The beach is another attraction and it is located 28km from Surat.

Unai
It is a hot spring located 64km from Surat. This ancient place is also mentioned in the Puranic literature and legends says that it was created by Lord Ram.

Dandi
The place became famous during Indian freedom struggle where Dandi March Satyagraha was scripted by Mahatma Gandhi.

Vansada National Park
The place is home to number of wild animals including leopards, tigers, panther and wild boars.

Satpura
Satpura is Gujarat's best known hill resort, lies atop the second highest plateau in the Sahyadri range. The place is covered with thick forests. The place is 164km from Surat.