How to Get to Surat. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Surat

Major Airports & Airlines

Surat International Airport (STV) directly serves the city, handling domestic flights and limited international routes. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD) in Ahmedabad is a larger international gateway.

Direct Flights & Connections

Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet operate flights to STV.
STV connects Surat to primary Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.
Most international travelers fly into Mumbai (BOM) or Ahmedabad (AMD) then take a connecting domestic flight, train, or car to Surat.

Seasonal Prices & Airport Services

Flight rates vary seasonally. Surat International Airport (STV) offers basic facilities. Ahmedabad Airport (AMD) provides more extensive services.

Timing & Facilities

Peak season (Oct-Mar) has higher flight prices; book well in advance.
Monsoon (Jul-Sep) and summer (Apr-Jun) often feature lower fares and more availability. Compare prices on Skyscanner or Dollar Flight Club.
STV has check-in, baggage claim, food stalls, duty-free. AMD has wider dining, lounges, shopping, and transportation.

Taxis from STV

Pre-paid taxis are available at the airport exit. Ride-sharing apps like Ola and Uber also function in Surat.

From AMD by Bus

Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) buses offer common services from Ahmedabad to Surat.

From AMD by Train

Regular train services connect Ahmedabad to Surat, providing a comfortable travel option.

Transfer Options from Airports

From Surat International Airport STV

Pre-paid taxis are available at the airport exit; confirm destination and fare.
Ride-sharing apps (Ola and Uber) are available.
Auto-rickshaws are suitable for shorter distances, found outside the airport.
Car rental desks are also available at STV.

From Ahmedabad Airport AMD

Private taxis are available for pre-booking or on arrival; the drive to Surat is 4-5 hours.
Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) buses offer regular services.
Regular train services connect Ahmedabad to Surat for a comfortable travel option.
Consider your budget and comfort preference when choosing.

Airport Facilities Overview

Surat Airport STV

Provides basic check-in, baggage claim, limited food stalls, and duty-free shops for international departures. Car rental desks and taxi services are available.

Ahmedabad Airport AMD

Offers extensive facilities across its terminals. Includes a wider range of dining, lounges, duty-free shopping, car rental, and diverse land travel choices.

Passenger Services

Both airports aim for passenger convenience, with AMD offering additional facilities due to its larger size and international scope.

Land Transportation Options

Train Connections & Services

Surat Train Station (ST) is a major junction on the Western side Railway line. It maintains connections to towns across India.

Booking & Routes

Booking through the IRCTC webthe place is recommended, especially for popular routes.
Routes link Surat to Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Jaipur, Kolkata, and Chennai.
Indian Railways offers Express, Mail, and Passenger train services.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Surat Central Bus Station acts as a major hub for both Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) buses and independent operators.

Routes & Booking

Common services connect Surat to cities within Gujarat and surrounding states like Maharashtra and Rajasthan.
Both air-conditioned (AC) and non-AC buses are available.
Tickets are accessible online or right at the bus stands.

Self-Driving & Rental Cars

For greater independence, consider hiring a car in Surat. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for foreigners.

Requirements & Advice

You need a valid driving license (IDP recommended) and passport.
Self-drive car rentals are available from local companies and national companies like Zoomcar or via DiscoverCars.com.
Hiring a car with a driver is strongly recommended for a relaxed and safer experience due to Indian traffic conditions.

Road Conditions & Safety

Highways connecting Surat to other large cities are generally good. However, city roads can be congested and chaotic.

Driving Style & Hazards

Within the city, roads experience heavy congestion, especially during peak hours.
Driving in India is often aggressive and unpredictable.
Hazards include unpredictable traffic, pedestrians crossing unexpectedly, animals on roads, and inadequate road markings. Night driving is not recommended for unfamiliar drivers.

Sea/River Arrivals and Immigration

Surat has historical maritime links but lacks major passenger ferry services.
No cruise ports for international or inter-state travel.
Local river transportation on the Tapi River does not serve as a main mode of tourist arrival.

Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable for Surat.
Border crossing information is not relevant as Surat is an internal Indian city.
No direct connections for international tourist arrivals via sea in Surat.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

No specific exit fees or taxes apply to international tourists departing India beyond those included in your airline tickets.

Departure Timing

International Flights: Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure.
Domestic Flights: Arrive at the airport 2 hours in advance to departure.
Train/Bus: Arrive at the station 30-60 a few minutes before it's due to leave.

Airport/Station Facilities

Provisions at Surat International Airport (STV) are basic for departing travelers. Ahmedabad Airport (AMD) offers a wider range of amenities.

Services Available

STV: Check-in stores, security, limited dining, restrooms.
AMD: Lounges, duty-free shopping, multiple food and beverage options, currency exchange.
Surat Railway Station: Waiting rooms, food stalls, restrooms for occupants.

Passport Readiness

Ensure your passport is easily accessible and valid for your entire journey.

Printed Documents

Carry printed copies of tickets and boarding passes, especially if relying on e-versions.

Local Currency

Have some local currency for last-last-minute buys or transportation needs.

Safe Departure Checklist

Before Leaving Your Accommodation

A final check before heading to the airport or station ensures a smooth departure.

Final Review

Double-check all personal belongings.
Ensure all windows and doors are locked if you are the last to leave.
Confirm settlement of any outstanding bills.

On the Way to Departure Point

Keep these spots in mind during your commute to your point of departure.

Travel Comfort & Safety

Allow extra travel time for potential traffic delays.
Confirm your route with the driver or navigation app.
Keep your phone charged and available for communication.

Customs and Security Checks

Prohibited Items

Be aware of articles prohibited in carry-on and checked luggage. Check airline guidelines.

Liquids & Gels

Follow restrictions for liquids and gels in your hand luggage-on bags (typically 100ml containers).

Electronics

Prepare electronics for easy removal during security screening.

Final Departure Advice

For a stress-no-cost exit, dedicate sufficient time for all procedures. A calm plus methodical approach leads to a pleasant end to your Surat journey.

How to Get to Surat