Beaches

Mumbai is one of the most popular spots and is a must-visit city if you want to enjoy the glitz and glamour. It is home to the Hindi Film Industry or Bollywood and is a cosmopolitan city with modern culture. You can enjoy a lot here including shopping, sightseeing, and great food too. The popular spots like Gateway of India, Bandra Worli Sea Link, Hanging Gardens Shri Siddhivinayak Temple, and Malabar Hill are a must-visit. You can also enjoy looking at the home of popular Actors and celebrities who all reside here. The Juhu seashore and Marine Drive give a stunning view of the sea here. Mumbai has a great nightlife too that should be explored. 

The city of Celebrities and The city of dreams is named Mumbai. It has seen its habitation and seen the Stone Age. Earlier Bombay or Bambai as popularly known as witnessed many dynasties ruling over its land. The capital city of the state of Maharastra got its new name Mumbai in March 1996.

Mumbai Culture

This culture-rich city has gained much popularity because of its Cinema famed as Bollywood, which is the dream destination of each musician, actor, and dancer.

Places to visit in Mumbai

Mumbai holds very significant tourist places in the country and that’s why is always flooded with thousands of tourists, making their way in the crowd of the city. The top tourist attraction of Mumbai that should not be missed

1. Gateway of India:

It was actually a permanent gateway built in 1924 to welcome King George V and Queen Mary to Bombay from Britain. The grand structure is now a typical icon of the city.

2. Haji Ali:

Haji Ali is the perfect blend of architecture and religion, the mosque of Haji Ali stands in the Arabian Sea. It sees people beyond the boundaries religion, and thus welcomes the devotees of every religion.

3. Ajanta Elora Caves:

These ancient rock-cut caves have lots of artistic works to display. The place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sees visitors from across the world.

4. Ratangad Fort:

Ratangad Fort 2000-year-old fort calls the tourists as well as the trekkers to offer the scenic view of Nedhe. The place provides a chance to peep into India’s rich past and heritage.

5. Garbett Point:

• Garbett Point less popular tourist spot, tucked in the Matheran hill, gives a panoramic view of the mountains and waterfalls around.

Things to Do in Mumbai

Apart from looking for your favorite Celebs in Mumbai, one can do a variety of activities here.

1. Ferry Ride off The Gateway of India:

The breathtaking view of the city amidst the Arabian Sea is truly a treat. Do not miss the ride once you are here.

2. Shopping at Chor Bazar:

For all the shopping buffs, the place is a must-visit. Pack your packs with a variety of goodies at stealing prices.

3. Wildlife at Sanjay Gandhi National Park:

Don’t be confused if someone calls it Borivali National Park. The place offers wildlife exploration, safaris, mini train rides, boating, and trekking, what else one can ask for?

Also read: Top 23 Must-Visit National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Gujarat in 2023

4. Sunset at Bandstand:

The shores of Mumbai give the unique sunset experience to be remembered lifelong.

5. Trekking at Various Places:

There are many places for trekking in Mumbai. These are perfect for adventure lovers.

Best time to visit Mumbai

Mumbai looks its best in the Months of November till February. You can enjoy the pleasant winter here. Because in summer you will have too much humidity and in monsoon you will not be able to find a road to walk.

Things to Eat in Mumbai

The Mumbaikars are the most foodie people in the country. Their taste of food is surely going to amuse you. Do try some of these signature dishes of the city:

1. Vada Pao:

You cannot imagine Mumbai without vada pao. The tasty combination of bun with cutlet serves as a daily breakfast for thousands of on-rush people of Mumbai.

2. Pao Bhaji:

The tangy spicy blend of vegetables served with the popular pav bread is the Mumbai’s specialty. The dish sees its place one in every 3 stalls.

3. The Bombay sandwich:

The authentic dish of the Mumbai deriving its name from its parent city, The Bombay sandwich gives perfectly shaped bread layers stuffed with lots of vegetables and cheese.

4. Modak:

As the city of Lord Ganesha, Mumbai promoted Ganesha’s fav sweet dish too. Prepared in a lot of styles around the country, Mumbai serves you the perfect Modak.

5. Puranpoli:

The perfect amalgamation of yellow gram with jiggery sizzled with some cardmon and nutmegs, rolled into the wheat dough to form a shape of paratha, and are one of the tempting dishes of this region. Ah!! I am salivating reading this.

Diu is a popular tourist spot in Gujarat known for its fishing industry which captivates with its natural beaches. Diu is also famous for its rich history, ancient architecture, and culture. It was a famous Portuguese colony known for its important post from the Portuguese during the colonial period. Diu tourist places offer their visitors a fascinating view of the sunset from here.

Historical Significance:

Though Diu has a long and rich history, its time under Portuguese domination is the most well-known. The Portuguese ruled Diu from 1535 to 1961, and their influence may still be seen in the island's customs, food, and architecture. The largest historical site is the Diu Fort, a huge 16th-century building with a view of the Arabian Sea.

Places to Visit in Diu

There are many tourist places you can visit in Diu but here is the list of few popular places you can visit during your next tour to Diu Island.

1. Naida Caves:

Naida Caves are the most inspiring rock constructions in Diu. The caves are decorated with an elaborate community of tunnels and large step-like systems that make for a captivating climb. The caves additionally offer true possibilities to photographers because the daylight streaming through numerous cracks makes the scene pretty photogenic. If you want to click the photographs with unique background, you must visit Naida caves. Please note that this place may close in rainy season - make sure you take safety precaution while visit this place.

2. Jalandhar Beach:

Jalandhar Beach is considered the most scenic beach in Diu. The beach has a very peaceful & beautiful climate.  In this beach, diverse water sports activities centers are available. Located near INS Khukri memorial, this beach is very unique due to its position and shape.

3. Pani Kotha (Alfiston Jail):

The locals are known as it Pani Kottha which is a fort inside the center of the sea. It became the principle jail complicated at the time while the Portuguese dominated Diu. It creates an outstanding scene at night time with colorful lighting fixtures on it. One can revel in this visible from the principle bridge of the Diu Island.

4. INS Khukri Memorial:

The INS Khukri Memorial Diu was established by the Indian Navy in honor of the INS Khukri, an Indian naval ship that sank around 40 nautical miles off the coast of Diu during the India-Pakistan war of 1971. This is decent place where you can not just learn about the amazing history of our Indian navy but you can also learn about those brave soldiers who scarifies their life to protect the nation. The memorial is beautifully designed where you may need to walk upwards or can hire battery car who will take you on the top of the hill.

5. Nagoa Beach:

Nagoa Beach is one of Diu's most beautiful and famous beaches, located approximately 13 kilometers from the city. Nagoa Beach is a horseshoe-shaped beach known for its unique atmosphere and natural beauty. There are many resorts located near Nagoa beach and one of the lively place to stay in Diu.

6. Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple:

The Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple is among the most amazing spots in Diu. found close to the INS Khukri Memorial. The Shiv temple is often referred to as the Seashore temple of Diu due to its unusual location within a seaside cave.

7. Diu Fort:

One of the top tourist attractions in Diu is the stunning traditional Diu Fort constructed in 1535 and gained popularity in 1546, the Diu fort occupies 56736 sq km. You will need buy entry tickets to visit Diu fort which will take atleast 2-3 hours to explore the entire fort.

Activities and Adventures:

For adventure seekers, Diu offers various activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and windsurfing at Nagoa Beach. Nature lovers can explore the Diu Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of bird species & wildlife. Cycling around the beach is another great way to explore its natural beauty.

Plan your visit to Diu and uncover the natural beauty and historical charm of this beautiful beach.

The Devbhumi Dwarka is one of those char dham in India with very high pilgrimage importance amongst Hindus not just in India but in the entire world. It also has a very strong historical presence and is considered one of the oldest cities in India. 

The whole city of Dwarka has several stories to narrate about Lord Krishna and his youth. Ruler Krishna here is called by the name, Dwarkadeesh, and a famous temple known as Jagat mandir is located in Dwarka which attracts millions of tourists every year. 

Road Trip to Dwarka is also popular among pilgrims and travelers due to the scenic beauty and cultural significance along the way. Dwarka is located 450 km from Ahmedabad and is very well connected with roads, Rail, and Air from major parts of the country.

Dwarka is not just famous for its temple but it is also famous for marine life, coastal area, and the diverse ecosystem around it.

Tourist Places to Visit in Dwarka:

There are all different types of places you can visit during your tour to Dwarka which includes but are not limited to:

1. Dwarkadhish Temple:

The first place to visit in Dwarka is Dwarkadhish Temple; the main temple at Dwarka is situated on the bay of the Gomti River. It is also known as Jagat mandir which means (universal shrine). The original structure of the temple was believed to be constructed by Vajranabh, the great-grandson of Lord Krishna, more than 2500 years ago.

2. Shivrajpur Beach:

Shivrajpur Beach is a famous beach near the Shivrajpur village on the Arabian Sea in the Devbhumi Dwarka district. Recently, the Shivrajpur Beach also received Blue Flag certification. The iconic Blue Flag is one of the most recognized charitable awards in the world for beach, sea, and sustainable sailing tourism operators. It is one of the best places to visit in Dwarka.

3. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga:

Nageshwar Temple is located in Dwarka. It. It is a famous Jyotirlingas in India. It is located on the route between Gomati Dwarka and Bait Dwarka Island on the Gujarati coast of Saurashtra. Additionally, some of time it is also known as Nagnath Temple, the primary god here is Lord Shiva, otherwise called Nageshwar Mahadev.

4. Gomti Sangam Ghat:

Gomati Sangam Ghat is a consecrated place where the Gomati River streams. This ghat is stretched by moving down 56 steps from the Swarga Dwar of the Dwarkadhish Temple. The Gomati River is a Dwarka famous place which is known as the tributary of the Ganges, which meets the ocean at the Chakratirtha Ghat.

5. Gopi Lake:

Gopi Talav is the best Dwarka tourist place situated around 20 km from Dwarka on the route to Bet Dwarka. Gopi Talav is supposed to be one of the most wonderful vacation locations in Surat. You can appreciate numerous sporting and fun exercises close to the lake including the wellspring. The lake is additionally encircled by many children's zones where children can play and have a great time.

6. Hanuman Dandi Temple:

The temple close to Bet Dwarka is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and his son Makardhwaj. You can find both Hanuman and his son worshipped together in very few Indian temples. It’s a place with very little noise, recognized mostly by spiritual people.

7. Sudama Setu:

It is a footbridge constructed across the Gomti River for people to walk over. The bridge allows visitors to go from the mainland near Dwarkadhish Temple to Panchkui Tirth which is known for peace and spirituality. The area is ideal for a calming walk and is especially good for photo lovers, especially when the sun is rising or setting.

8. Bet Dwarka:

Bet Dwarka is about 30 km away from Dwarka. It can be accessed by a short trip on a boat from the Okha port. Many say that Krishna first lived here. The temple is also built to honor him and has silver and golden idols inside. It offers a calm and beautiful setting outside main tourist areas.

9. Dunny Point:

Dunny Point is situated quietly on Beyt Dwarka Island, only a few miles from Dwarka. The spot is ideal for nature lovers who like to camp, spot birds, and watch the sun go down. This spot is sustainable, not too busy, and perfect to enjoy by the water.

10. Rukmini Temple:

Rukmini Temple in Dwarka is dedicated to Rukmini, Krishna’s wife and is just 2 km from Dwarkadhish Temple. The temple has detailed carvings on the walls, even though it is quite small. This area is known for a unique water donation ritual because of its history.

11. Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple:

Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple is a beautiful seafront temple. The temple is on a little rock near the water and when the tide is high, it appears partly in the sea. It’s a wonderful sight from up here, especially before sunrise and the sun goes down.

Festivals Celebrated in Dwarka:

1. Janmashtami
2. Rath Yatra
3. Diwali
4. Holi
5. Annakut / Govardhan Puja
6. Makar Sankranti

Street Foods to Try at Dwarka:

1. Khaman Dhokla
2. Jalebi Fafda
3. Dabeli
4. Gathiya
5. Pav Bhaji
6. Khakhra
7. Dhokla Sandwich
8. Pani Puri
9. Undhiyu
10. Bhel Puri
11. Gujarati Thali

Stay Options at Dwarka:

Dwarka offers many options for staying, suitable for all budgets:

1. Luxury Hotels: Lords Eco Inn, The Fern Residency
2. Mid-range: Hotel Shree Darshan, Hotel Vrundavan
3. Budget: Guest houses and dharamshalas near the temple area

Places to Visit Near Dwarka:

Somnath:

Famous for the Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It’s around 236 km from Dwarka and offers a peaceful beach, sound and light show at the temple, and historical spots.

Porbandar:

This is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, just 102 km away. Visit Kirti Mandir, the house where Gandhiji was born, and enjoy the Porbandar beach.

Marine National Park:

Located about 31 km from Dwarka, it’s India’s first marine sanctuary. You can see coral reefs, colorful fish, starfish, octopus, and sometimes even dolphins. Best time to visit is during low tide.

Travel Tips for Dwarka Visitors:

1. Dress modestly, especially while visiting temples.
2. Footwear is not allowed inside temples.
3. Morning and evening aartis at Dwarkadhish Temple are not to be missed.
4. Carry cash, as some small shops may not accept cards or UPI.
5. Bet Dwarka requires a short boat ride, so plan accordingly.
6. October to March is the best time to visit due to the pleasant weather.

Vadodara is well known for being the cultural capital of Gujarat located at the banks of River Vishwamitri. The culture is rich and the traditions are lovely which makes it a must-see during the annual Navratri festival.

The culture and the stylish atmosphere in the city are well worth your attention at this time. It is famous for its history and architecture which make it beloved by travelers. Vadodara was built during the reign of Maharaja Sayajirao III, so it attracts many people interested in history.

Places to Visit Near Vadodara

You can find all different types of places you can visit near Vadodara that includes natural places, adventure park, historical monuments and many more. In this page, you can see all such places shared by TheIndia users who actually visited them and shared their experiences. Some of the most popular places includes:

1. Kotna Beach:

You can find Kotna Beach near the banks of the Mahi River and it is considered very peaceful. This area is a wonderful spot for a quick picnic or family and friends outdoor time. A lot of visitors arrive here in the evenings to see the beautiful sunset. Various water activities are available at Kotna beach like Kayaking.

2. Sayaji Baug Zoo:

The garden is well known by its other name, Kamati Baug and it is among the biggest in western India. The park features a zoo, a children’s train, a museum, and lush green areas. Many families like to come here on the weekends to enjoy quality time together.

3. Laxmi Vilas Palace:

It is one of the biggest privately owned residences in India. The royal Gaekwad family built this palace and it features impressive architecture, a museum and collections that belonged to them. The royal family in Vadodara continues to live in the palace.

4. Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery:

The Laxmi Vilas Palace Museum includes paintings, sculptures and old artifacts and is part of Sayaji Baug. This is a good venue for people learning about history and art and for those who enjoy culture. It looks like an old, beautifully designed building.

5. Ajwa Garden:

Ajwa Garden is known for having musical fountains and lots of green areas. You can have a pleasant evening here with your family. Kids love the fountain show and the park is always maintained and clean.

6. Sindhrot Check Dam:

This place is a calm water spot and you can get to it in a short drive from Vadodara. Many visitors come to enjoy nature, especially during the monsoon. Many come here for trips lasting a few hours to enjoy the natural water and vegetation.

7. Kirti Stambh:

Kirti Stambh is a tall and imposing building found in the center of Vadodara city. It represents the story of progress and growth. This area is popular for meeting up and for taking pictures.

8. Nazarbaug Palace:

Once a royal residence, Nazarbaug Palace now stands with traces of its grand past. It is not in the best condition today, but still holds historic value. It reminds us of the rich heritage of the Gaekwad dynasty.

Tourist Spots to Visit near Vadodara

If you have more time, you can also visit these wonderful places near Vadodara For one day or two days picnic.

1. Anand – Known as the Milk City of India and home to Amul Dairy.
2. Ahmedabad – A big city with a rich heritage, Sabarmati Ashram, and street food.
3. Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary – Great for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
4. Dakor Temple – A famous temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.
5. Champaner – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient architecture and history.
6. Statue of Unity – The tallest statue in the world, built in memory of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
7. Nilkanth Dham Poicha – A peaceful temple complex on the banks of Narmada River.
8. Pavagadh – A hill station with a famous temple on top and historical sites below.

Local Foods to Try in Vadodara

Vadodara is also provide various options to food lover. 

1. Sev Usal
2. Khandvi
3. Dhokla
4. Fafda-Jalebi
5. Pav Bhaji
6. Dabeli
7. Surti Locho
8. Batata Vada
9. Gathiya
10. Biryani
11. Ragda Pattice
12. Methi Thepla

Where to Stay in Vadodara:

Vadodara has many good places to stay, suitable for all types of budgets:

1. Luxury Hotels: Grand Mercure Vadodara Surya Palace, Welcomhotel by ITC, Sayaji Hotel
2. Mid-range: Ginger Hotel, Hotel Express Towers, Revival Lords Inn
3. Budget: Small hotels, lodges, and guest houses near the railway station and Sayaji Baug area

If you are looking for a peaceful weekend or family outing, there are also some nice resorts near Vadodara that offer a relaxing environment away from the city.

Travel Tips When Visiting to Vadodara:

1. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and historical sites.
2. Footwear is not allowed inside temples, so be ready to remove your shoes.
3. Laxmi Vilas Palace has specific visiting hours – check timings before you go.
4. Carry some cash, as small food stalls and local shops may not accept UPI or cards.
5. Sayaji Baug Zoo is best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
6. Weekends at popular spots like Kotna Beach or Sindhrot Dam can be crowded – try to go on weekdays.
7. Drink bottled water and avoid street food if you are not used to it.
8. October to March is the best time to visit – weather is pleasant for sightseeing.
9. Auto-rickshaws are common for travel, but always fix the fare or use a meter.
10. Keep your ID proof handy, especially when checking into hotels.

The Oxford of the Eastern region of India, the city of Pune (पुणे) is one among the largest city of the country in terms of its vast empire and also the people it houses. One can’t resist getting a youthful vibe here. 

This metropolitan city has its roots sprouted from the old Poona. Poona had witnessed the glory of the Maratha Empire, which helped India being an independent country. The city shows the perfect amalgamation of modernity with tradition, which adds to the adoration of this beautiful city.

In the due course of time, the city of Pune witnessed many cultures and civilizations. But still it hasn’t gone far from its typical Maharashtrian conduct.

The best thing about Pune is its weather! Yes, it is surrounded by beautiful ghats and mountains and you can enjoy all different seasons here. Especially monsoon! you can go for trek to various ghats and fort, enjoy waterfall and can do various activities in and near to Pune.

Places to visit in / near Pune:

Apart from the culture and history, the city of Pune is also blessed with a rich heritage sites, pilgrimage sites and natural sightseeing places. The climate of Pune is so pleasant that it keeps calling visitors from all over the country, all year round. Now let’s explore the places to visit in Pune.

You must include following places in your Itinerary to Pune -

• Rajgad Fort - This Palace is a perk for the trekkers and the explorers. Go trekking till you reach an altitude of 1400 meters to discover this majestic Palace. The place had witnessed many historic events of the past and thus has always been an important spot in the maps of the country.
• Neelkantheshwar Temple - This sacred temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Do visit this place to unreveal many mythological stories the temple says through its stunning statues.
• Lavasa - If you are looking for comfort, modernization, scenic views all at one place, still being in the lap of Mother Nature, then this is the ultimate Stop for you. The newest hill city of India is equipped with all the modern amenities and provides the chance to enjoy the nature from the closest.
• Aga Khan Palace - Visit this place to look for some mesmerizing architecture of the past and to explore the place of much historical significance. The Palace also holds a museum showcasing the collectibles related to the Indian war of Independence.

These are only few to mentions of Pune but, there is lot more to explore in Pune and the city is truly a piece of heaven for the travel enthusiasts. You can visit this page which will cover more of such places to visit in and near to Pune.

Things to do in Pune

Once you are in Pune, apart from visiting tourists places of the city, there are many more activities and fun awaiting for you. One can get chance to choose among the many options like -

• Paragliding at Kamshet - The flying enthusiasts have very adventurous option of paragliding at Kamset. The certified pilots will take you to the breathtaking tour of the Sahyadri Ranges and valleys.
• Exploring the Korigad Fort - The real power packed journey for the adrenaline junkies will start here. Trekking to the fort offers lots of mesmerizing spots to visit into.
• Trekking at Rajmachi - The treat for the trekkers are the thrilling trails to Rajmachi. One may choose the trail of their comfort to reach the 2 popular forts of Rajmachi- Shirvardhan Fort and Manoranjan Fort.

Not your choice?? Wait…. Pune is having much more options. You can go for-

• Hot air balloon safari and a quite escape at Lonavala - The place tucked at Sahyadris gives enough reasons to call the tourists. Go for a lifetime experience of flying high in the sky witnessing the vast horizon of greenery, deep fading valleys, mighty hillocks, and luscious lakes.
• Rajivgandhi zoological park - The zoology lovers can run to explore this place. Spreaded across 130 acres of land, the zoo has four important sections as - the Katraj Lake, the Zoo, an Animal Orphanage and the Snake Park. 

But the fun is still not over!! The city of Pune is party lover. It parties a lot. You can experience the nightlife here in its exotic resorts and Pubs spread all over the city.

Best time to visit Pune

I would suggest you to Plan your trip in the months between October and March, as the city sees most pleasant and predictable weather this time. Other months can be looking to scorching Sun or the rainfall. If you wanted to get the experience of romantic part of Pune, you should visit here in the month of May to June at this time there is little rain over here and you can the best monsoon experience in the Maharashtrian cities like Lavasa, Mahabaleshwar and Matheran.

Food to try in Pune

The city never sleeps, nor does it’s eat streets. The streets of Pune are laden with delicious spicy tangy foods. One cannot resist themselves from tasting the mouth watering delicacies of the city. Not just the typical Maharashtrian dish, but you can find dishes traveling from across the country making their place in the vivid stalls. 

You will regret later if you don’t taste the servings of -

• Kayani Bakery - Ah! The real treat for the sweet lovers awaits here. Rush here before the servings are gone. Don’t forget tasting some shrew berry biscuits and Mawa cake, the signature dishes of the place.
• Misal Pav - The unique dish of Pune that does not allow sharing. The hundreds of varieties of misal pav here will make you go wao and you will end up filling the tummy to the top.
• Sujata Mastani - as the name stands, this drink is sure to keep you “Mastt” all day. It's a perfect blend of milk with ice-cream with lots of mouth watering inclusions hidden inside. The relishing drink is available in a variety of flavors to choose from. 

I am sure you are going to thank me after tasting these.

Pune is a beautiful city to stay and to explore the nature, if you are from Pune and want us to cover any specific part of the city, please write here by comment and we will do our best to cover it.

Surat is a bustling port city in Gujarat, India, known for its textile and diamond industries. It is called the "Silk City" and "Diamond City" due to its rich heritage. Surat has a mix of modern infrastructure and historical sites, making it a popular destination for tourists.

History:

Surat has a long history dating back to ancient times when it was a busy port on the Arabian Sea. Traders from Persia, Arabia, and Europe came to the city. During the Mughal era, Surat became a major trading center for textiles and spices. It experienced several invasions and played an important role in India's trade during the British colonial period.

Places to Visit:

Dumas Beach: Dumas Beach is a popular urban beach with black sand. Visitors can relax by the shore, enjoy the scenery, and try some tasty street food. It's a great place for a fun evening with family and friends.

Sarthana Nature Park: Sarthana Nature Park and Zoo is a big green area with lots of plants and animals. Families can have a great time seeing different animals, visiting the butterfly park, and having a picnic. It's a perfect place for nature lovers and kids to learn and have fun.

Dutch Garden: This garden has Colonial-era tombs of Dutch traders and lush greenery, creating a peaceful atmosphere. It's a great place for a leisurely walk and to learn about Surat's history with European traders. The garden is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of the Tapi River.

Ubhrat Beach: Ubhrat Beach is a well-liked beach close to Surat. The beach is famous for its clean sands and peaceful setting, making it perfect for a leisurely day by the sea.

Vansda National Park: The Navsari district has a dense forest reserve with diverse plant and animal life. It is a great place for nature lovers to enjoy activities like bird watching, trekking, and wildlife spotting.

Suvali Beach: Another beach near Surat, known for its black sand. It's less crowded and is a peaceful place to enjoy the natural beauty and calm waters.

Tithal Beach: Located near Valsad, this beach is famous for its black sand and the beautiful sunset views. It also has facilities like food stalls and children's play areas, making it a family-friendly destination.

Kevdi Eco Tourism Site: Situated near the Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kevdi is known for its scenic beauty and eco-tourism activities. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, trekking, and experiencing the natural environment.

Dandi Beach: Famous for its historical significance, Dandi Beach is where Mahatma Gandhi completed his Salt March in 1930. It's a place of great historical importance and a serene spot to visit.

Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Sankri: A beautiful Swaminarayan temple located in the Sankri village. It's known for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance, attracting devotees and tourists alike.

Things to Do:

Diamond Market Tour: Take a guided tour of Surat's diamond market to learn about diamond crafting. You can see artisans at work and buy beautiful diamond jewelry. 

Textile Shopping: Explore Surat's textile markets like the Surat Textile Market and Old Bombay Market for a variety of fabrics.

Boat Ride on Tapi River: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Tapi River to see the cityscape and historical landmarks. It's a relaxing way to experience Surat's natural beauty and urban charm.

Food to Try:

Locho: Locho is a Gujarati snack made from steamed chickpea flour. It is garnished with spices, chutneys, and sev. Locho is soft, flavorful, and is enjoyed as a breakfast or snack. It is a unique dish that highlights the creativity of Surat and is definitely worth trying.

Undhiyu: Undhiyu is a traditional Gujarati mixed vegetable dish cooked with spices. It is usually served with puri or rice. This winter dish is slow-cooked in an earthen pot, which gives it a unique flavor. Undhiyu is a hearty and nutritious meal that showcases the agricultural richness of the region.

Surti Sev Khamani: This snack is made from crushed chickpea flour cakes and topped with sev, pomegranate seeds, and coriander. It is a popular street food that is known for its flavors and textures. This dish showcases Surat's passion for delicious and creative snacks.

Surat is a city in Gujarat that combines a rich history, vibrant culture, and modern industry. It is a must-visit destination in Gujarat.