A 16th century Muslim tomb, a 17th century Jain Temple, a Portuguese building now the Ukkadji Dharamsala, the L P Mission school colonial building and the Mughal serai with archways and dome bearing the stamp of the great Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, provide an eclectic mix. The ancient port is in itself an attraction as are the lanes leading from the Serai with their lovely balconies, interesting doors and latticed screens. The chowk or centre has many imposing colonial buildings also.
Across from this is the famous 16th century Surat Castle. It was built by the Sultans of Gujarat and today houses may Government offices and courts. However as it is on the banks of the Tapti it is a great place to go for a panoramic view of the area.
Visit the 19th century Sardar Patel Museum (earlier the Winchester Museum). It has an interesting collection of over 10,000 items of glassware, porcelain ceramics and other archeological exhibits. The Surat Parsi Fire Temple is the oldest sacred fire temple of the Parsis in India with the fire said to have been brought from Persia.
Described by 16th century Portuguese traveler Barbosa as, storehouse of the most precious production of Hindustan, even today you can find silver and gold jewellery crafted in Surat, though Diamond cutting and polishing is now the rage.
To shop for textiles, the Bombay Market is the place to go. If you are lucky you will find the silk and Zari (gold and silver embroidery) that Surat was once famous for especially its tanchoi and Gajjee silks. It Kinkhab brocades were world renowned.
During the Kite flying festival (mid January) the skies become a riot of colour. Even at night you see (special kind of illuminated box kites). The Dang Durbar held in the forest is an annual fair held in the early spring, a week before Holi (January/February). It is the gathering place for numerous tribal people in their traditional attire. You can see their arts and crafts and join in their festivities and traditional dances.