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The port city of Surat is one of the most important areas of the state of Gujarat. A major industrial hub and a city with a high standard of living, Surat is one of the major cities of the country. The importance of the city grows with the fact that the flourishing diamond cutting and polishing industry in Surat is the best in the world. Apart from the industrial and business aspect, read more to get an overall idea about Surat.
The history of Surat dates back to the time of Mahabharata. The city has its mention in the epic and also in other ancient books. During the thirteenth century, Surat was also referred as Suryapur by the Brahmin Pundits. The prosperity of the modern Surat increased during the sixteenth century when the European traders started coming in. The port of Surat became extremely important and significant route for their trades. The Portuguese and the British fought with each other to establish their dominance on the port. The great emperor Shivaji attacked the city several times, which eventually went in the hands of the British. Surat took active participation in India's freedom movement and went through severe socio-political turmoil for many years before the Indian Independence.
Surat has a global location of North Latitude of 21�15' and East Longitude 72�52'. Situated on the bank of the Tapi River, Surat falls in South Gujarat. Surat is approachable from all corners of the country through air, railway and road transportation. The best time to visit Surat is between the months of October and March. |