Surat Castle Old Fort
A beautifully restored 16th-century fortress showcasing Surat's rich history, trade, and architectural heritage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Surat Castle Old Fort
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully restored 16th-century fortress showcasing Surat's rich history, trade, and architectural heritage.
"From ruins to renewal: The city hides stories. The transformation is truly impressive!"
🎯 Cash for Tickets
Carry cash for entry tickets, as UPI payments might not always be accepted. :moneybag:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the fort's grounds and exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Restored Heritage Architecture
Throughout the fort
Marvel at the beautifully restored 16th-century fortress, showcasing Surat's rich history and architectural grandeur.
Historical Artifacts Collection
Inside the fort's exhibition rooms
Discover fascinating artifacts, including coins, stamps, ivory, and jewelry, offering a glimpse into Surat's past.
The Historian's Insight
Guided tours or information center
Learn about the fort's restoration and history from experts, making the visit truly unforgettable.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Smooth Visit
Tickets and What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Cash for Tickets
Carry cash for entry tickets, as UPI payments might not always be accepted. :moneybag:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the fort's grounds and exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
⏳ Allocate Enough Time
Plan for 2-3 hours to fully immerse yourself in the history and exhibits. :hourglass:
📱 Surat Fort App
Utilize the Surat Fort app for a virtual tour and enhanced experience. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Cash for Tickets
Carry cash for entry tickets, as UPI payments might not always be accepted. :moneybag:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the fort's grounds and exhibits. :athletic_shoe:
⏳ Allocate Enough Time
Plan for 2-3 hours to fully immerse yourself in the history and exhibits. :hourglass:
📱 Surat Fort App
Utilize the Surat Fort app for a virtual tour and enhanced experience. :iphone:
📸 Photography Rules
Personal photography might be restricted; check guidelines for details.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Surat Castle Old Fort for its beautifully restored architecture and rich historical exhibits, highlighting the engaging narrative of Surat's past. The efforts of the Surat Municipal Corporation and the insights from historians are frequently commended, making it a rewarding experience.
"Had an amazing and truly rewarding experience at Surat Fort!
The restoration is done beautifully and the place is full of Surat’s history — from stories of trade with Europeans in the 1600s to fascinating artifacts. I was surprised to learn that the fortifications actually started in the late 1300s.
What made my visit even more special was meeting Mr. Sumesh Modi, the historian-architect researched the fort and led its restoration. Listening to him talk about the history and the behind-the-scenes restoration process made the visit unforgettable.
Highly recommend spending 2–3 hours here. It’s a perfect way to explore Surat’s rich heritage and admire its stunning architecture."
Harsh Patel
"From ruins to renewal: The city hides stories.
The transformation from ancient ruins to a beautifully restored heritage site is truly impressive—hats off to SMC for the incredible work!
The entire visit was seamless and well-managed. You never feel lost—thanks to the guards guiding you at every point and the dedicated Surat Fort app that gives you a virtual tour experience.
It’s not just a monument—it’s a journey through history.
If you're in Surat and haven’t been yet here, this place is a must visit. Trust me, it’s worth every moment. All the fort portion is fully air-conditioned so can be visit any season.
Ticket price : 100 rs. (In cash only)
Just one thing is missing they should except UPI payments too for ticket."
Richa Shah
"I went to the fort without any expectations as it looked small compared to forts in Rajasthan or Maharashtra. There is an entry ticket of 100INR. The Govt. has done a fabulous job of renovating and maintaining the fort. Once you enter the fort, follow the instructions of the security guard and visit each room in that order. The fort has beautiful collections of coins, stamps, ivory, furniture, jewellery, etc. in the different rooms. The history of the fort is shown in a video at the start as well as a display with information and pictures."
Greeshma Gowda
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Surat Castle Old Fort is located near Dakka Ovara, Makka Pull, in Chowk Bazar, Surat, Gujarat. You can reach it by local auto-rickshaws or taxis.
Yes, it's accessible via local buses and auto-rickshaws that ply through Chowk Bazar.
From Surat railway station, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw directly to Surat Castle Old Fort. The journey typically takes around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Limited parking might be available nearby, but it's advisable to check on-site or rely on local transport for convenience.
Yes, ride-sharing apps like Ola and Uber are readily available in Surat and can be used to book a ride to the fort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees vary: ₹20 for kids and ₹40 for adults were previously mentioned, but more recent information suggests ₹100 for those above 16 and ₹50 for those below 16. It's best to confirm on arrival.
Advance booking is generally not required. Tickets can be purchased at the fort's entrance.
The fort is typically open during daylight hours, but specific timings can vary. It's advisable to check locally or on the Surat Municipal Corporation website.
Yes, there are separate charges for photography (₹20) and videography (₹100). Personal pictures might have restrictions.
While some reviews mention cash-only for tickets, it's worth inquiring about UPI or other digital payment options upon arrival, as facilities can change.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A visit of 2-3 hours is recommended to explore the exhibits, learn about the history, and appreciate the architecture.
Yes, many parts of the fort, including the exhibition halls, are air-conditioned, making it comfortable to visit in any season.
While not always formally advertised, you might find knowledgeable guards or historians who can share insights. The Surat Fort app also provides a virtual tour experience.
The fort houses a collection of coins, stamps, ivory items, furniture, and jewelry, offering a comprehensive look at Surat's past.
Yes, some areas might be restricted due to ongoing restoration or security reasons. Visitors are guided through specific paths.
📸 📸 Photography
Personal photography might be restricted, and there's a separate fee for photography. It's best to check the specific rules at the entrance.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in historical sites without special permissions.
The restored architecture and historical ambiance provide many aesthetic photo opportunities, especially during golden hours.
Yes, videography is allowed but comes with a separate fee of ₹100.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the fort's beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While exploring, keep an eye on the children as some areas might have restricted access. The nominal entry fees make it an affordable outing. Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
+1🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
The collection of historical artifacts, including coins, stamps, and weaponry, provides tangible links to Surat's past as a bustling trade center. Engaging with the information provided, perhaps through the Surat Fort app or by speaking with knowledgeable staff, will offer profound insights into the fort's construction, its role in regional defense, and the extensive restoration efforts.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Surat's Past
The fort's strategic location and robust architecture speak volumes about the era's defense strategies. The fort has undergone extensive restoration by the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC), transforming it from ruins into a well-maintained heritage site.
Visitors can explore various sections, each meticulously curated to showcase different aspects of Surat's heritage. The presence of air-conditioned rooms enhances the comfort of exploring these historical treasures, regardless of the season.
The Restoration Journey
Historian-architect Mr. Sumesh Modi played a pivotal role in researching and leading the restoration process. His expertise and passion have made the fort not just a monument but a living narrative of Surat's history.
The restoration ensures that the fort remains a key attraction for those interested in history, architecture, and cultural heritage. The well-managed site, with guards guiding visitors, ensures a seamless and informative experience, allowing everyone to appreciate the intricate details and historical significance of the fort.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit