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 minimal international flights. 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 services with high frequency 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 services with high frequency.
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 tax-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-duty-free shopping, car rental, and diverse ground transportation choices.

Passenger Services

Both airports target passenger convenience, with AMD offering more amenities 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 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 is a primary hub for both Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) buses and private operators.

Routes & Booking

Frequent 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 available online or right at the bus stands.

Self-Driving & Rental Cars

For greater independence, consider renting a vehicle in Surat. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is suggested for foreigners.

Requirements & Advice

You need a valid driving license (AN idp is advised) and passport.
Self-drive vehicle hires are available from local providers and national companies like Zoomcar or by means of 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 key urban areas are generally good. However, city roads can be congested and chaotic.

Driving Style & Hazards

Within the city, roads experience heavy congestion, notably at busy times.
Driving within 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 major 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 to 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 minutes before scheduled departure.

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 counters, 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 simple to get to and valid for your entire journey.

Printed Documents

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

Local Currency

Have some local currency for last-quick purchases or transportation needs.

Safe Departure Checklist

Before Leaving Your Accommodation

A final check before heading to the airport or train 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 places in mind during your commute to the airport or station.

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 not allowed in carry-on and checked luggage. Check airline guidelines.

Liquids & Gels

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

Electronics

Prepare electronics for easy removal during security screening.

Final Departure Advice

For a relaxing-free departure, dedicate adequate time for all procedures. A calm and organized approach leads to a pleasant end to your Surat journey.

How to Get to Surat