Surat is a modern city with an array of digital platforms that cater to transportation, food, travel, shopping, and emergency services. Below is a detailed guide to the most useful apps and websites that every tourist and new city visitor in Surat should know.
1. Surat Municipal Corporation App
- Purpose: Official app for civic services and city-related updates.
- Features:
- Local news and announcements
- Public transport schedules (BRTS/Buses)
- Civic issue reporting (water, electricity, roads)
- Platforms: Android, iOS
- Website: www.suratmunicipal.gov.in
- Secret Tip: Use the app to get live updates on public transport schedules.
2. MySurat App
- Purpose: A one-stop app for city services and amenities.
- Features:
- Real-time traffic updates
- Civic amenities locator (parks, hospitals, schools)
- Bill payments for water, electricity, and property taxes
- Platforms: Android, iOS
- Secret Tip: Use the app to find nearby parking spaces in crowded areas like Ring Road.
3. OLA/Uber
- Purpose: Ride-hailing apps for transportation in and around Surat.
- Features:
- Book cabs, auto-rickshaws, and rental cars
- Transparent fare pricing
- Cashless payments through UPI or cards
- Platforms: Android, iOS
- Secret Tip: Compare both apps to find the best fare, especially during peak hours.
4. Surat BRTS App
- Purpose: Official app for Surat’s Bus Rapid Transit System.
- Features:
- Bus routes and schedules
- Live tracking of buses
- Fare details
- Platforms: Android
- Website: BRTS Surat Info
- Secret Tip: Use BRTS for cost-effective and fast travel during rush hours.
5. Zomato & Swiggy
- Purpose: Food delivery apps to explore Surat’s local cuisine.
- Features:
- Order street food and local specialties like Locho, Khaman, and Ponk
- Check restaurant ratings and reviews
- Exclusive discounts and cashback offers
- Platforms: Android, iOS
- Secret Tip: Look for “Street Food of Surat” options to try authentic local dishes.
6. RedBus
- Purpose: Online bus booking for intercity and interstate travel.
- Features:
- Book luxury and economy buses
- Seat selection and cancellation options
- Offers and discounts on bookings
- Platforms: Android, iOS
- Website: www.redbus.in
- Secret Tip: Use this app for hassle-free travel to nearby destinations like Ahmedabad and Mumbai.
7. Paytm & Google Pay
- Purpose: Digital payment apps widely accepted in Surat.
- Features:
- Make UPI payments at shops, food stalls, and transport services
- Recharge mobile and pay utility bills
- Book movie tickets at local cinemas
- Platforms: Android, iOS
- Secret Tip: Keep some cash handy as small vendors in markets like Chauta Bazaar may not accept digital payments.
8. BookMyShow
- Purpose: Online ticket booking for entertainment options.
- Features:
- Movie ticket booking for Surat cinemas like PVR and INOX
- Events and activities in Surat
- Exclusive discounts on tickets
- Platforms: Android, iOS
- Website: www.bookmyshow.com
- Secret Tip: Look out for discounts on weekday bookings for movies and events.
9. Gujarat Tourism App
- Purpose: A complete travel guide for exploring Surat and Gujarat.
- Features:
- Information about tourist attractions, festivals, and events
- Nearby hotels and restaurants
- Guides for local transportation and cultural etiquette
- Platforms: Android, iOS
- Website: www.gujarattourism.com
- Secret Tip: Use the app to check for guided tours or package deals for Surat.
10. Google Maps
- Purpose: Navigation and route planning.
- Features:
- Live traffic updates
- Public transport routes and schedules
- Nearby attractions, restaurants, and ATMs
- Platforms: Android, iOS
- Secret Tip: Save offline maps for areas with poor internet connectivity, such as Dumas Beach.
Summary Table
| App/Website | Purpose | Platforms | Secret Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surat Municipal App | Civic services and transport | Android, iOS | Check BRTS schedules for fast travel. |
| MySurat | City services | Android, iOS | Find parking spaces in crowded areas. |
| OLA/Uber | Ride-hailing | Android, iOS | Compare both apps for the best fare. |
| Surat BRTS | Public bus system | Android | Use during peak hours for cost-effective travel. |
| Zomato/Swiggy | Food delivery | Android, iOS | Explore “Street Food of Surat” options. |
| RedBus | Intercity travel | Android, iOS | Use for travel to Ahmedabad and Mumbai. |
| Paytm/Google Pay | Digital payments | Android, iOS | Keep cash handy for small vendors. |
| BookMyShow | Entertainment bookings | Android, iOS | Look for weekday movie discounts. |
| Gujarat Tourism App | Travel guide | Android, iOS | Check for festival-specific packages. |
| Google Maps | Navigation | Android, iOS | Save offline maps for areas with poor connectivity. |
| MakeMyTrip | Travel bookings | Android, iOS | Book early for Navratri season discounts. |
| Thomas Cook | Forex and travel services | Android, iOS | Compare forex rates before visiting outlets. |
| Surat Foodies App | Food recommendations | Android, iOS | Check the “Street Food of the Month” section. |
| UrbanClap | Home and beauty services | Android, iOS | Book spa services for relaxation. |
| Surat Real-Time Weather | Weather updates | Android, iOS | Check before visiting outdoor locations. |
Pro Tips for Using Local Apps and Websites
- Stay Connected: Ensure a stable internet connection for seamless app usage.
- Compare Prices: For transport and food delivery, compare apps to find the best deals.
- Save Offline: Save maps and itineraries offline for convenience.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check apps like Surat Municipal Corporation for announcements or changes in local services.
This comprehensive guide ensures tourists and city visitors have a smooth and enjoyable experience in Surat.