History of Surat
Surat, also known as the ‘Diamond City’, is a vibrant city located in the Indian state of Gujarat. The city has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. It was ruled by various dynasties including the Mauryas, the Chalukyas, and the Mughals. Surat was an important trading port during the Mughal era and attracted merchants from all over the world.
In the 17th century, the city emerged as one of the most prosperous trading centres in the world. It was a hub for trade between Europe, Africa, and Asia, with merchants from England, Portugal, and the Netherlands establishing their presence in the city. The city’s wealth and prosperity attracted the attention of foreign powers, leading to conflicts and invasions.
Economy of Surat
Today, Surat is known as the ‘Textile City of India’ and is a major hub for the textile and diamond industries. It is one of the largest producers of textiles in the country and is famous for its exquisite silk and zari work. The city is home to numerous textile mills, weaving units, and diamond-cutting and polishing workshops.
In addition to textiles and diamonds, Surat has a thriving trade in other sectors such as chemicals, petrochemicals, and information technology. The city has a well-developed infrastructure and is known for its business-friendly environment, attracting investors from all over the world.
Tourism
The diamond city is not just an industrial hub, but also a city with a rich cultural heritage and several tourist attractions. The city offers a blend of ancient history and modernity, making it an interesting destination for tourists.
Some tourist attractions:
- Fort: Also known as the Old Fort, this historical landmark dates back to the 1500s and offers a glimpse into the city’s past. It is now a popular tourist destination and offers stunning views of the city.
- Museum: This museum houses a collection of artefacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Surat. It also has a section on the diamond cutting and polishing industry.
- Dumas Beach: This beach is located on the Arabian Sea and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. It is also home to several temples and mosques.
- Jagdish Chandra Bose Aquarium: This aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, dolphins, and jellyfish. It is a popular educational and entertainment destination for tourists and locals alike.
- Dargah: This dargah is dedicated to the Sufi saint Hazrat Shah Shamsuddin. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Muslims from all over India.
- Ambika Niketan Temple: This temple is dedicated to the goddess Amba. It is a popular Hindu pilgrimage site and is known for its beautiful architecture.
- Sneh Rashmi Botanical Garden: This garden is home to a variety of plants and flowers. It is a popular spot for strolling, picnicking, and bird-watching.
- VR Surat: This is a large shopping mall with a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Surat. With its rich history, culture, and natural beauty, Surat is a city that has something to offer everyone.
Surat at a glance:
- It is the world’s largest diamond-cutting and polishing centre. Surat accounts for about 90% of the world’s diamond-cutting and polishing industry. The city has over 5,000 diamond manufacturing units, employing over 3 million people.
- It is one of the cleanest cities in India. The city was ranked the second cleanest city in India in the Swachh Survekshan 2020 survey. The city has made significant investments in waste management and sanitation and has achieved a remarkable turnaround in its cleanliness over the past few years.
- It is a major textile hub. Surat is known as the “Silk City” of India due to its large textile industry. The city is a major exporter of textiles and is also a major producer of yarn, fabrics, and garments.
- It is a major industrial city. It has a diverse industrial base, with industries ranging from textiles and diamonds to engineering and chemicals. The city is home to over 100,000 industrial units and is a major contributor to the Indian economy.
- It is a major commercial centre. It is a major commercial centre in Gujarat and is home to several financial institutions and trading companies. The city is also a major transportation hub, with its airport and seaport.
- It is a major tourist destination. It has several historical and cultural attractions, including the Surat Fort, the Surat Museum, and the Surat Dargah. The city is also home to many beaches, making it a popular destination for tourists.
Cuisine:
Street Food: The city is a paradise for food lovers. Don’t miss out on trying local favourites like Locho, Surti Undhiyu, and Ponk.
Sweets: Savour traditional Gujarati sweets like Ghari and Surti Sev Khamani.
The city is known for its vibrant street food culture and is a paradise for food lovers. From delicious street snacks like Pav Bhaji and Sev Puri to mouth-watering traditional Gujarati thalis, Surat offers a wide variety of culinary delights.
