Travel Safely & Travel Tips & Important Contacts In Surat

Surat, known for its rich heritage, bustling markets, and vibrant culture, is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any other destination, there are essential safety precautions, travel tips, and key contacts to keep in mind for a hassle-free visit.

Safety Tips for Traveling in Surat

1. Transportation Safety:
   • Auto-rickshaws: Always negotiate the fare or ensure the driver uses a meter. Ride-sharing apps like Ola and Uber are recommended for fair pricing.
   • Public Buses: Use city buses operated by the Surat Municipal Corporation for budget travel. Avoid overcrowded buses during peak hours.
   • Private Cabs: Pre-book cabs for long-distance travel or airport transfers through trusted services.
2. Health & Hygiene:
   • Street Food: While Surat’s street food is delicious, stick to stalls with good hygiene practices. Drink bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
   • Climate: Surat can get very humid. Stay hydrated, especially during summer, and wear breathable clothing.
3. Personal Safety:
   • Avoid isolated areas late at night, especially around beaches like Dumas.
   • Keep your valuables secure while exploring crowded markets such as Chauta Bazaar.
   • Women travelers are generally safe but should remain vigilant and dress modestly to respect local customs.
4. Local Laws:
   • Surat follows strict prohibition laws on alcohol consumption. Only consume alcohol in legal permit rooms (available at select hotels) if you have a liquor permit.
5. Traffic Rules:
   • Traffic in Surat can be chaotic. Always use pedestrian crossings and adhere to traffic lights.
   • Avoid jaywalking, as it may result in fines.

Travel Tips for Surat

1. Best Time to Visit:
   • The ideal time to visit Surat is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy the city’s festivals and winter specialties like Ponk and Undhiyu.
2. Local Transport:
   • Use BRTS (Bus Rapid Transit System) for quick and economical travel.
   • Auto-rickshaws are the most common mode of transport, but agree on the fare before starting your journey.
3. Shopping Tips:
   • Bargain at markets like Sahara Darwaja and Chauta Bazaar to get the best deals.
   • For diamonds and jewelry, always ask for certifications and receipts.
4. Cultural Etiquette:
   • Greet locals with “Jai Shri Krishna” or “Kem Cho” (How are you?) to connect with them.
   • Remove your shoes before entering temples or someone’s home.
5. Pack Essentials:
   • Carry light cotton clothing in summer and a shawl or jacket during winter evenings.
   • Don’t forget an umbrella or raincoat if visiting during monsoons (June to September).
6. Tech Tips:
   • Download essential apps like Google Maps, Ola/Uber, and Zomato for navigation, transport, and dining recommendations.
   • Use cashless payment methods like Google Pay, Paytm, or UPI for convenience.

Emergency and Important Contacts in Surat

1. Emergency Services:
   • Police: 100
   • Fire Brigade: 101
   • Ambulance: 108
   • Women’s Helpline: 1091
   • Tourist Helpline: 1800-111-363 (24×7)
2. Hospitals:
   • Civil Hospital Surat:
     • Contact: +91 261 224 4175
     • Location: Majura Gate, Surat
   • Sunshine Global Hospital:
     • Contact: +91 261 718 9000
     • Location: Dumas Road, Surat
   • Kiran Hospital:
     • Contact: +91 261 716 1111
     • Location: Katargam, Surat
3. Airport and Railway Station:
   • Surat International Airport:
     • Contact: +91 261 272 0109
     • Location: Dumas Road, Surat
   • Surat Railway Station:
     • Contact: 139 (Indian Railways Helpline)
     • Location: Railway Station Area, Surat
4. Tourist Information Centers:
   • Surat Municipal Corporation:
     • Contact: +91 261 242 3751
     • Location: Muglisara, Surat
   • Gujarat Tourism Office:
     • Contact: +91 261 242 1905
     • Location: Chowk Bazaar, Surat
5. Consulates (Nearby):
   • There are no consulates in Surat. The nearest ones are in Mumbai (approx. 260 km away).
6. Travel Assistance:
   • Thomas Cook: +91 1800 209 9111
   • MakeMyTrip Support: +91 124 462 8747
   • RedBus Customer Care: +91 80 394 12345

Surat’s Helpline Numbers for Tourist Assistance

Service	Contact Number	Remarks
Police	100	General safety and law enforcement.
Fire Brigade	101	Emergency fire services.
Ambulance	108	For medical emergencies.
Women’s Helpline	1091	Assistance for women’s safety.
Tourist Helpline	1800-111-363 (24×7)	Central helpline for tourists in India.
Surat Airport Helpline	+91 261 272 0109	Flight information and assistance.
Railway Station Enquiry	139	For train schedules and tickets.
Surat Municipal Corporation	+91 261 242 3751	Local tourist information and city services.

Pro Tips for Safe Travel in Surat

1. Stay Connected: Always carry a fully charged mobile phone and a power bank.
2. Emergency Kit: Keep a small first-aid kit with medicines for common ailments like headaches, allergies, and stomach issues.
3. Avoid Overpacking: Carry essentials like water bottles, sunscreen, and light clothing.
4. Stay Alert: Beware of pickpockets in crowded markets and public transport.
5. Respect Local Customs: Follow temple rules, avoid public displays of affection, and dress modestly in religious or traditional areas.

This guide ensures a safe and enjoyable trip to Surat for all travelers.