Forget about Mumbai and Delhi! Check out this amazing trip to Surat!

On this trip to India, I discovered a hidden gem—Surat—and I just have to share it with you all! Here's my travel guide for Surat. Day 1: I arrived in Surat in the morning and felt the city's warmth as soon as I stepped out of the station. I took a taxi directly to Hotel The Grand Surya, which I had booked in advance. The hotel is well-located, with easy access to the city's main attractions. After a short rest, I walked to Surat Castle. The castle boasts ancient architecture and a rich history. Strolling through it, I felt as if I could hear the whispers of the past. I spent 2–3 hours exploring the castle and taking photos. Day 2: I went to Chopati Beach early in the morning to watch the sunrise. As the sun slowly rose above the horizon, the golden light shimmered on the sea—it was absolutely stunning. I also saw locals exercising and playing on the beach, experiencing the purest essence of life. I recommend spending 3–4 hours here. In the afternoon, I visited the Surat Diamond Museum, which showcases a dazzling array of diamonds. I learned a lot about diamond processing and trade. It was a super educational experience. I recommend spending 2–3 hours here. I took a local auto-rickshaw to get there, which was a fun experience. Day 3: I went to Surat Municipal Park. The park is shaded by lush trees and filled with beautiful flowers, making it perfect for relaxing walks. I recommend spending 2–3 hours here. It's easy to get there by bus. Speaking of food, I highly recommend The Spice Route restaurant in the city center. Their chicken curry is incredibly tender and juicy, and the curry is rich and flavorful. Paired with local naan bread, it's a burst of local flavor that you must try! Their yogurt is also sweet and sour, perfect for cutting through the richness of the curry. As for accommodation, Hotel The Grand Surya is excellent. The rooms are clean, cozy, and the beds are very comfortable, allowing me to rest well after a tiring day of sightseeing. The front desk staff is super friendly and helpful with any questions, making it great value for money. Here are a few tips for visiting Surat: Buy tickets to the Surat Diamond Museum online in advance, as there can be long queues. Also, it gets quite hot during the day, so be sure to take sun protection measures, such as sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Surat is truly a city full of surprises. From its ancient castle and beautiful beach to its delicious food, it's a place that will stay with you. I'm sure you'll love it too, so start planning your trip!