Surat Fort History

 

The History of Surat Fort

During the 16th-century Tughlaq dynasty, Surat Fort, also known as the Castle, started out as a modest fort. Later, Khudawand Khan constructed the current fort at the behest of Sultan Muhammad III, who ruled the Gujarat Sultanate from 1540 to 1546.

Situated on the banks of the Tape River close to the city, the fort was constructed with 4.1-meter-thick walls at the corners and 12.2-meter-high bastions to withstand an attack by protesters. Iron strips are used to tie this brick and stone fort, and lead is poured to cement the bond. The stone was virtually laid in September 2022, along with many Mughal, British, and later modern renovations and uses.

Schedule and entry fee

Travel Schedule: Tuesday - Sunday: 10am - 6pm
Tickets on sale: 10am - 4:50pm or 4:10pm (sources vary).

The price of tickets:

Ages 3-16 years and above 60 years: ₹50

Age 17-60 years: ₹100

For foreign tourists (all ages): ₹500

Closed on Mondays and national holidays.

A separate charge of ₹500 is applicable for DSLR or professional videography.

3. How to Reach the Surat Fort

Flights: A taxi can be hired from the nearest Surat International Airport.

Rail: Surat is located near the railway station; auto-rickshaws are easily available.

By Road: You can easily reach the city from any part of the city by hiring a bus or taxi/auto.

4. What to see inside the Surat Fort?

Archaeological Museum: ancient coins, weapons, manuscripts, and beautiful artifacts.

Beautiful views of the river from the rooftop, from the pool, from the terrace, and from the terrace.

Among the 22 galleries, there are British and Dutch life and a weapons gallery, more detailed.

Guided service and perfect maintenance, wheelchair facilities, and a security system are available.

Places to visit near the fort

Chak Bazar Heritage Square—The architecture of the British and Mughal eras can be enjoyed together. Mughal Sarai (1400 AD)—used as an English police prison by the Mughal Architectural Order, 1857.

Sardar Patel Museum and Science Centre is an educational center for children and adults.

Dutch Garden, Gopi Talav—ideal for spending the day in the lush green hilly areas.

 Conclusion:

Surat Fort—or Surat Castle—is a historically, architecturally, and culturally rich site. If you are a history buff or are interested in enjoying the architectural beauty, then this fort is an extraordinary destination for you.