Surat Fort: History, Timings, Entry Fee & Travel Guide
Gujarat’s vicinity boasts numerous historical and heritage sites, adding to its rich cultural charm. One of its major crowd-pullers is Surat Fort in Surat, enticing history buffs and architectural lovers from every corner of the Earth. Also known as Suraj Castle, it was once a defensive structure, but it has now been transformed into a significant tourist attraction, leaving visitors in awe. Elevate your fort exploration by covering all its major gems in one tour. How? Let’s have a look at the details.
History of Surat Fort
Surat Fort’s history is fascinating to know, and lets you uncover various ancient mysteries related to it. Here are its significant historical insights:
- It is believed that the foundation of the fort was laid in 1372, during the Tughlaq rule.
- Suraj Castle was officially built in the 16th century by the Gujarat Sultanate to establish a strong defence against the Portuguese.
- There is a hint of Mughal architecture, indicating its renovation during the Mughal period.
- During the British rule, the fort served as an administrative and military base.
- After independence, the Surat Municipal Corporation oversaw the restoration and preservation of the Surat Fort as a heritage site.
Also Read: Places to Visit in Surat
Surat Fort Timings & Entry Fee
- Timings: Tuesdays to Sundays, 10 AM to 6 PM
- Closed: Mondays and National holidays.
- Ticket Selling: 10:00 AM to 4:50 PM.
- Surat Fort ticket price: Free
- Foreign Visitors: Rs. 500/-.
- Photography/Videography (DSLR/Mirror-less): Rs. 500/-
- Location: 5rw9+f4c, Rang Upvan Rd, Chowk Bazar, Varasa, Surat, Gujarat
How to Reach Surat Fort
Surat city boasts proper transportation facilities that will make your way to the Surat Fort address hassle-free. Here is the detailed guide:
- By Air: Surat Airport is the nearest airport to the fort, situated approximately 13 km away.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Surat Railway Station, situated around 3 Kms from Surat Fort.
- By Road: If you are travelling via bus, then the nearest bus stand is Surat Central Bus Stand, located about 3 km from the fort.
You can cover the further journey to the fort via the BRTS (Bus Rapid Transit System) or book a taxi through the Surat Sitilink App.
Related Post: Historical Places in Surat
What to See Inside Surat Fort
There are many interesting areas within the Surat fort in Surat where you can witness detailed chambers, massive halls and blissful courtyards. History buffs are welcome to take a look at its glorious architecture, which reveals the traditional construction techniques of the ancient era. Here are its major offerings:
- Suraj Fort is an old fort in Surat that allows you to dig into its historical mysteries through framed pictures and photos of the restored fort.
- The detailed architecture of the fort is a retreat for visitors’ eyes and senses.
- One of its interesting areas is the Water Tank and Vault. The basement vault reveals an amusing ventilation system, which was constructed in ancient times to keep the surroundings pleasant and with less humidity.
- Don’t miss the Restored Royal Bastion and Hamman, where ancient water channels whisper tales of royal luxury.
Nearby Attractions Around Surat Fort
Surat Fort is surrounded by numerous tourist attractions that you can include in your sightseeing list for additional joy. Here are some of the major nearby attractions:
1. Dumas Beach
Dumas Beach is a black sand beach with a haunted reputation. Although its black colour is due to a high iron content, curious minds still find it fascinating to witness its unique charm and whisper about its paranormal activity stories. Here, visitors are welcome to enjoy camel riding, horse riding and local food stalls.
- Distance from Surat Fort: 19 Km
Related Post: Picnic Spots In Surat
2. Sarthana Nature Park
Quench your wildlife thrill and spot various animals at Sarthana Nature Park. Enjoy close encounters with tigers, leopards, deer, monkeys and other wildlife to embrace Surat’s rich biodiversity. It’s a family-friendly place offering fun settings for a joyful day.
- Distance from Surat Fort: 12.5 Km
3. Sardar Patel Museum
Hinted by its name. Sardar Patel Museum features a collection of historical artefacts and memorabilia, each revolving around Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Those who find delight in heritage sites are welcome to spend a day at the museum, where every wall showcases interesting facts and figures.
- Distance from Surat Fort: 6.1 Km
4. Dutch Garden
Dutch Garden is a serene escape loaded with biodiversity and serves as a paradise for nature lovers. It’s a European-style garden featuring colourful flowerbeds and roaring fountains—a family-friendly spot to reconnect with nature.
- Distance from Surat Fort: 2.5 Km
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FAQs
What is the history of Surat Fort?
After a raid threat in 1530, the Gujarat Sultanate built the fort to protect Surat from Portuguese invasions. Although there is some evidence indicating that its structure was built during the Tughlaq dynasty in 1372, the original fort’s structure was built during the 16th century.
Who built Surat Fort and why?
Surat Fort was built by Khudawand Khan, who was the Surat Governor. The order was passed by Sultan Mahmud Shah III of Gujarat, whose primary purpose was to defend the region against the Portuguese.
What is the entry fee to Surat Fort?
Here is the entry fee structure for Surat Castle:
- Free for Indians
- Foreign visitors - INR 500/-
What are the opening hours of Surat Fort?
Visitors can enjoy a tour of Suraj Fort between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM, Tuesday through Sunday. The fort remains closed on Mondays, and ticket sales end at 4:50 PM every day.
Is parking available at Surat Fort?
Yes, Surat Fort has a parking facility with some common guidelines based on vehicle type and duration.
How much time is needed to explore Surat Fort?
To explore the Surat Fort to its fullest, you will require at least 2-3 hours. This duration will allow you to take a deeper look at the history, architecture and surroundings of Surat Fort.
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