The short answer
Sarthana Nature Park: what visitors should know first
A good family outing and a welcome break from the city, especially in the cooler months. It is large, so decide what to see first and use any park transport on offer. Check current hours and which animals are on show.
History and context
The story behind Sarthana Nature Park
The park is owned and managed by the Surat Municipal Corporation and opened in 1984. It spans 81 acres, with the Tapi on its north side and the Surat-Kamrej road to the south, and is described as one of Gujarat's oldest and largest zoos.
Useful facts
Sarthana Nature Park facts at a glance
- Location
- Sarthana, northern Surat, on the Tapi
- Experience type
- Zoo and nature park
- Known for
- Breeding lions, tigers and Himalayan bears
- Size
- About 81 acres
- Opened
- 1984
Why it matters
Why Sarthana Nature Park is worth your time
Sarthana opened in 1984 and is described as the first zoo in south Gujarat. It is run by the Surat Municipal Corporation and has bred lions, tigers, Himalayan bears and white peafowl, which makes it more than a casual attraction in conservation terms.
For a city known for trade, it gives residents a rare large green space. For visitors, it is a reasonable family day if you want something other than temples and markets, and it adds a different side of Surat to the usual diamond-and-textile story.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The big cats
Lions and tigers are among the main draws, and the park has a record of breeding them.
- 02
Himalayan bears
Another species the park has bred successfully.
- 03
The riverside setting
The park runs along the Tapi, giving it more green space than the city centre.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Plan an early start so the animals are active and the heat is manageable. The park lies on the Tapi's bank on the north side of the city, so it is easiest to reach by car or cab; allow extra time in rush hour.
Start with the big cats and Himalayan bears, which the park is known for breeding, then move slowly through the rest. The 81-acre site rewards a loose plan: pick three or four enclosures, take a long break in the shade and leave before midday.
Carry water, wear a hat and keep children close to the barriers. If you are with older family members, agree a meeting point in case people want to rest while others walk on.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Check opening days and any weekly closure
- Go early and carry water
- Wear a hat and comfortable shoes
- Keep to marked paths and follow zoo rules
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Sarthana, near Kamrej Road, on the Tapi
- Time needed
- 2 to 3 hours
- Best time
- Morning, November to February
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The park covers about 81 acres, so walking distances add up. Seating and shade are available in places, but older visitors should pace themselves and use any internal transport if available.
- Tickets and access
- The zoo is run by the Surat Municipal Corporation and charges an entry fee; check current fees, hours and closed days with the corporation before you go.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Sarthana Nature Park
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The park covers about 81 acres, so walking distances add up. Seating and shade are available in places, but older visitors should pace themselves and use any internal transport if available.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
When did Sarthana Nature Park open?
It opened in 1984 and is run by the Surat Municipal Corporation.
How long should I plan?
Two to three hours is enough for the main enclosures.
Is it good for seniors?
With pacing, yes. The site is large, so plan breaks and avoid the midday heat.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
