Surat, known as the “Diamond City” and “Silk City,” offers a wide variety of unique souvenirs that reflect its rich heritage, craftsmanship, and vibrant culture. From textiles to jewelry, here’s a comprehensive guide to the Top 10 Souvenirs to Buy in Surat, ensuring tourists and visitors have all the necessary details.
1. Bandhani Sarees
- Why Buy: Bandhani sarees are intricately tie-dyed and represent the traditional art of Gujarat.
- Best Places to Buy:
- Sahara Darwaja Market
- Chauta Bazaar
- Price Range: ₹1,000 – ₹10,000
- Secret Tip: Opt for hand-dyed pieces for authenticity.
2. Surat Diamonds
- Why Buy: Surat is the world’s largest diamond polishing hub, offering high-quality diamonds at competitive prices.
- Best Places to Buy:
- Varachha Diamond Market
- Surat Diamond Association Outlets
- Price Range: ₹5,000 – ₹1,00,000+ (depending on quality and size)
- Secret Tip: Purchase certified diamonds for authenticity.
3. Surti Silk Sarees
- Why Buy: Known for their soft texture and intricate designs, Surti silk sarees are a must-have.
- Best Places to Buy:
- Rander Road Textile Market
- Universal Textile Market
- Price Range: ₹2,000 – ₹15,000
- Secret Tip: Look for handloom silk sarees for premium quality.
4. Ponk and Ponk Vadas
- Why Buy: Ponk, a winter delicacy made from roasted green jowar, is unique to Surat.
- Best Places to Buy:
- Varachha Food Markets
- Adajan Patiya
- Price Range: ₹200 – ₹500 per kg
- Secret Tip: Visit during winter (November to February) for fresh ponk.
5. Gujarati Snacks (Namkeen)
- Why Buy: Famous Gujarati snacks like Sev, Gathiya, and Farsan make perfect edible souvenirs.
- Best Places to Buy:
- Shreeji Farsan
- Jagdish Farshan
- Price Range: ₹200 – ₹500 per kg
- Secret Tip: Try Surti Sev for its unique texture and taste.
6. Patola Sarees
- Why Buy: These handwoven sarees are a symbol of Gujarat’s rich weaving heritage.
- Best Places to Buy:
- Chauta Bazaar
- Millennium Market
- Price Range: ₹10,000 – ₹1,00,000+
- Secret Tip: Invest in single-ikat Patola sarees for a more intricate design.
7. Handicrafts and Home Décor
- Why Buy: Handicrafts like wooden artifacts, brass items, and wall hangings reflect Gujarat’s rich artistry.
- Best Places to Buy:
- Gujarat Haat
- J.J. Art Gallery
- Price Range: ₹500 – ₹5,000
- Secret Tip: Bargain for better prices, especially on bulk purchases.
8. Diamond Jewelry
- Why Buy: Surat offers exquisite diamond-studded jewelry at relatively lower prices.
- Best Places to Buy:
- Varachha Diamond Jewelry Market
- Laxmi Diamond Showrooms
- Price Range: ₹10,000 – ₹2,00,000+
- Secret Tip: Always check for hallmark certification.
9. Khadi Fabrics
- Why Buy: Handspun khadi fabrics are eco-friendly and represent traditional Indian craftsmanship.
- Best Places to Buy:
- Khadi Emporium, Surat
- Price Range: ₹200 – ₹1,500 per meter
- Secret Tip: Opt for pure cotton or silk khadi for premium quality.
10. Surat Zari Work
- Why Buy: Zari embroidery, made with gold and silver threads, is a hallmark of Surat’s textile heritage.
- Best Places to Buy:
- Sahara Darwaja Market
- Textile Plaza
- Price Range: ₹1,000 – ₹50,000+
- Secret Tip: Look for authentic zari work to ensure durability.
Quick Comparison Table
| Souvenir | Best Places to Buy | Price Range | Secret Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bandhani Sarees | Sahara Darwaja, Chauta Bazaar | ₹1,000 – ₹10,000 | Choose hand-dyed sarees for authenticity. |
| Surat Diamonds | Varachha Diamond Market | ₹5,000 – ₹1,00,000+ | Purchase certified diamonds. |
| Surti Silk Sarees | Rander Road, Universal Textile Market | ₹2,000 – ₹15,000 | Opt for handloom silk sarees. |
| Ponk and Ponk Vadas | Varachha Food Markets, Adajan Patiya | ₹200 – ₹500 per kg | Available only in winter (Nov-Feb). |
| Gujarati Snacks | Shreeji Farsan, Jagdish Farshan | ₹200 – ₹500 per kg | Try Surti Sev for a unique flavor. |
| Patola Sarees | Chauta Bazaar, Millennium Market | ₹10,000 – ₹1,00,000+ | Invest in single-ikat designs. |
| Handicrafts | Gujarat Haat, J.J. Art Gallery | ₹500 – ₹5,000 | Bargain for better prices. |
| Diamond Jewelry | Varachha Diamond Jewelry Market | ₹10,000 – ₹2,00,000+ | Ensure hallmark certification. |
| Khadi Fabrics | Khadi Emporium | ₹200 – ₹1,500 per meter | Choose pure cotton or silk khadi. |
| Zari Work | Sahara Darwaja, Textile Plaza | ₹1,000 – ₹50,000+ | Look for authentic hand-embroidered pieces. |
| Handwoven Dupattas | Rander Road, Chauta Bazaar | ₹300 – ₹5,000 | Match with fabrics for a full outfit. |
| Wooden Handicrafts | Gujarat Haat, Rustampura Market | ₹500 – ₹10,000 | Opt for handcrafted items. |
| Tribal Jewelry | Chauta Bazaar, Gujarat Haat | ₹300 – ₹5,000 | Silver tribal jewelry is durable. |
| Parsi Embroidery | Millennium Market, Sahara Darwaja | ₹3,000 – ₹20,000+ | Look for hand-embroidered sarees. |
| Surti Locho Mix | Jalaram Locho House, Dhiraj Sons | ₹100 – ₹300 per pack | Great for easy-to-carry souvenirs. |
Secret Tips for Shopping Souvenirs in Surat
- Bargain: Most markets allow negotiation; don’t hesitate to bargain.
- Authenticity: Look for hallmark certifications on diamonds and jewelry.
- Seasonal Items: Souvenirs like Ponk are only available during specific seasons (winter).
- Bulk Discounts: Buying in bulk often gets you better deals in textile markets.
- Local Help: If possible, take a local guide or friend to avoid overpricing.
This guide ensures you’ll have a memorable shopping experience in Surat.