Surat

Since earliest times Surat is famed for its fine silks and trade in spices. India's busiest port and one of its most prosperous cities in the 17th and 18th centuries, surat is also known for its ivory and wood inlay work. The vast and varied influences of the English, the Dutch, the Portuguese and the Moghuls in the past are reflected in the appearance of present day Surat through the mosques, Jain temples with exquisite carvings, and colonial type houses.

Today it is well known for its ultra-modern industry and produces 70% of Indian's synthetic textiles. Synthetic textiles along with polishing & cutting and gold and sari work are the three most important professions of this city.

ACCESS

Surat is on the Mumbai-Delhi-Ahmedabad broad gauge line.

By road it is 262 km from Mumbai, and 230 km from Ahmedabad.

PLACES OF INTEREST

The Old Fort, English Factory House, Rander a suburb famous for its mosques and the textile market.

EXCURSIONS

Dumas (16 km) - A seaside health resort; Hajira (28 km) - a picturesque beach having relaxation spots for tourists; Ubharat (42 km) - sandy beach with palmgroves and well equipped holiday accommodation. Ukai- a multi purpose irrigation project; Vedchhi - an ashram run on Gandhian lines.

ACCOMMODATION

Holiday inn (5-star), Near Bharti Park, Ambica Niketan, Athwa Lines, Surat. Phone: 666565; Telex: 0188-356; Fax: 0261-667294.

Hotel Yuvraj (3-star), Opp. Railway Station, Gulambaba Mill Compound, Surat. Phones: 53621, 53622, 53623, 426023; Cable: Hotel Yuvraj; Fax: 0261-432456.

Hotel Sheetal, Surat.