Hazira Port

Hazira Port Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Gujarat Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction to Hazira Port and Its Significance

Hazira Port, located on Gujarat’s western coast near Surat, is a key maritime gateway and industrial hub in India. Approximately 22–27 km from central Surat, the port has transformed the region into a premier logistics and industrial corridor since its establishment in the early 2000s. Significant investments by companies like Shell Gas B.V., Total Gaz Electricité Holdings, Essar Bulk Terminal Limited (now AMNS Ports Hazira Limited), and ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India have developed Hazira into a modern, multi-purpose port complex. The facility boasts advanced jetties, extensive storage, and integrated power plants, currently handling close to 25 million metric tonnes of cargo annually, with further expansion underway (Global Gujarat; Care Ratings, 2025; Outlook Business, 2023).

While public access to the port itself is restricted due to its industrial nature, Hazira’s proximity to Surat, its scenic beaches, natural hot springs, and the innovative RoRo ferry service connecting Hazira to Ghogha create a unique blend of industrial tourism and leisure. This guide provides a detailed overview of Hazira Port’s history, operations, visitor tips, ticket procedures for the RoRo ferry, and a curated list of nearby cultural and historical sites in Surat (Revolving Compass; Yappe.in; environmentclearance.nic.in).

Introduction
Historical Development of Hazira Port
Economic and Strategic Relevance
Port Infrastructure and Facilities
Visitor Information and Practical Tips
Hazira and Surat: Top Attractions and Experiences
Hazira Port Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion & Call to Action
Summary and Final Tips
References and Further Reading

Historical Development of Hazira Port

Hazira Port was initiated in the early 2000s to address the growing needs of Gujarat’s industrial economy and reinforce the state’s maritime leadership. Approved by the Gujarat Maritime Board in 2002, development was led by Hazira Port Private Limited—a joint venture between Shell Gas B.V. and Total Gaz Electricité Holdings—with an investment of over USD 700 million (environmentclearance.nic.in). The port became operational in 2005, featuring deep-water, all-weather berths and an LNG terminal.

Acquisition by ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India in 2023 further integrated Hazira with the region’s massive steel and logistics complex (Outlook Business, 2023). Ongoing infrastructure upgrades and strategic partnerships, notably with DP World, continue to enhance the port’s connectivity and capacity (DST News, 2024).

Economic and Strategic Relevance

Hazira Port is a linchpin in Gujarat’s maritime ecosystem, facilitating the movement of chemicals, steel, pharmaceuticals, automotive components, and more. The port’s integration with AM/NS India’s steel plant streamlines both imports and exports, underpinning industrial growth and trade logistics in western India. With annual cargo throughput projected to reach 6.9 million tonnes by 2025–26, and significant ongoing upgrades (including direct links to the Dedicated Freight Corridor), Hazira is set to anchor the region’s economic future (Global Gujarat; Care Ratings, 2025).

Port Infrastructure and Facilities

Jetties & Berths: Deep-water jetties accommodate Panamax and Capesize vessels. The facility expanded to 1,100 meters of jetty with 140 hectares of storage area, supporting a maximum annual capacity of 50 MMTPA (Care Ratings, 2025).
Cargo Handling: The port specializes in bulk cargoes—iron ore, coal, limestone, and steel products—supported by automated conveyor systems.
Utilities: Integrated power plants (270 MW multi-fuel, 515 MW gas-based) ensure reliable operations (Outlook Business, 2023).
Logistics: The port is well connected by road and rail, with services like DP World’s Unifeeder Group providing coastal and inland logistics (DST News, 2024).

Visitor Information and Practical Tips

Access and Visiting Hours

Hazira Port is an operational industrial facility. General public access is restricted, and there are no regular tourist tours. Business visitors and industrial delegations must obtain prior authorization from AMNS Ports Hazira Limited or the Gujarat Maritime Board. Visits are possible during standard business hours by appointment, and all visitors must adhere to strict safety and security protocols.

Industrial Tourism and Special Events

While routine public access is limited, Hazira occasionally hosts special events and industrial tours for business groups by prior arrangement. For example, the visit of INS Surat in 2025 showcased Hazira’s capabilities to select dignitaries (Mid-Day, 2025; DeshGujarat, 2025).

Practical Tips

Permission: Secure authorization well in advance.
Transport: Private vehicles or pre-arranged transport recommended.
Safety: Wear appropriate gear; photography inside port requires approval.
Best Time: November–February for pleasant weather.

Hazira and Surat: Top Attractions and Experiences

Hazira Beach

A serene stretch of golden sand along the Arabian Sea, Hazira Beach is ideal for relaxation, family outings, and photography. Local seafood stalls and homestays offer authentic tastes of coastal Gujarat (Trek Zone; Thrillophilia; TripzyGo). Best visiting hours: 7 AM–7 PM.

Natural Hot Springs

Known for their mineral-rich, therapeutic waters, Hazira’s hot springs attract wellness travelers. Open daily from 8 AM–6 PM, with basic facilities (Triphobo).

Surat Historical & Cultural Sites

Surat Castle: 16th-century fort, open 9 AM–6 PM, tickets INR 10–30 (Holidify).
Dutch Garden: Colonial-era cemetery, 8 AM–5 PM.
Ambika Niketan Temple: Open throughout the day.
Dumas Beach: Black sand beach, sunrise to sunset.

Culinary Experiences

Sample local favorites such as locho, khaman, undhiyu, and fresh seafood at area eateries (TripzyGo).

Festivals and Culture

Surat’s lively festivals—Navratri, Diwali, Holi, Uttarayan—bring the city to life from September through February (TripzyGo).

Day Trips

Popular excursions include Daman and Diu, Bharuch’s temples, and Valsad/Udvada’s Zoroastrian heritage sites.

Hazira Port Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Getting to Hazira Port

By Road: 22–27 km from Surat, accessible via GSRTC buses, taxis, or private vehicles (Wikiwand).
By Rail: Nearest station is Pipolod, 8.8 km from the port.
By Air: Surat International Airport offers regional connectivity.

Visiting Hours

Port area accessible 6:00 AM–8:00 PM for those with authorization; ferry travelers should check in an hour before departure.

RoRo Ferry Service: Tickets and Procedures

Booking: Advance online booking on DG Sea Connect (Revolving Compass).
Pricing: Approx. INR 1,000 for cars; passenger fares vary by class. Wristbands issued at check-in; vehicles loaded via ramps.
Facilities: Waiting areas, secure parking, cafes, restrooms, and recreational courts (Yappe.in).

Onboard Experience

Classes: VIP, Executive, Business.
Amenities: Basic seating, snacks, upper deck for scenic views.
Journey Time: ~4 hours 45 minutes; total trip including check-in is about 7 hours (Revolving Compass).
Accessibility: Facilities generally support travelers with disabilities, but confirm in advance.

Scenic & Cultural Opportunities

Sunrise/Sunset: Waterfront ideal for photography and cycling.
Nearby: Suvali Beach, Hazira Lighthouse, local temples, and Surat’s historical sites.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can tourists visit Hazira Port?
A1: Public entry is restricted; business or group visits require prior permission.

Q2: What are the visiting hours?
A2: For authorized visitors, typically 6:00 AM–8:00 PM; ferry check-in times may differ.

Q3: How do I book ferry tickets?
A3: Book online at DG Sea Connect.

Q4: Are there industrial tours?
A4: Only by prior arrangement for business or educational groups.

Q5: What attractions are nearby?
A5: Hazira Beach, hot springs, Surat Castle, Dutch Garden, and Dumas Beach.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Hazira Port exemplifies Gujarat’s industrial and maritime prowess, offering a unique confluence of economic significance and travel opportunity. Although primarily an industrial zone, it provides select opportunities for business tours and special events. The nearby beaches, hot springs, RoRo ferry ride, and Surat’s rich culture make Hazira a compelling destination for all types of travelers.

For the most current updates, download the Audiala app, explore our related articles, and follow us on social media. Plan ahead, secure necessary permissions, and make the most of your journey to Hazira and Surat!

Summary and Final Tips for Visiting Hazira Port

Hazira Port stands as a dynamic symbol of Gujarat’s industrial and maritime ambitions, facilitating bulk cargo and supporting major industries with modern infrastructure and robust logistics (Care Ratings, 2025; DST News, 2024). While access is restricted, the region’s blend of industrial tourism, leisure, and culture is unmatched. Plan your visit during the cool season (November–February), secure any required permissions, and use local resources and apps for a seamless, enriching experience. Hazira’s integration of industry, culture, and nature makes it a must-see for anyone interested in the infrastructure that powers India’s progress (Global Gujarat; Outlook Business, 2023).

References and Further Reading

Hazira Port: History, Economic Impact, and Visitor Information in Gujarat, 2025, Global Gujarat (Global Gujarat)
Hazira Port Infrastructure and Operations, 2025, Care Ratings (Care Ratings, 2025)
Essar Ports Business Acquisition by ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India, 2023, Outlook Business (Outlook Business, 2023)
Hazira Port Visitor Guide and RoRo Ferry Experience, 2025, Revolving Compass (Revolving Compass)
Hazira Port Facilities and Access Information, 2025, Yappe.in (Yappe.in)
Hazira Tourist Attractions and Surat Historical Sites, 2025, TripzyGo and Thrillophilia (TripzyGo)
Gujarat Maritime Board Environmental Clearance Documentation, 2018 (environmentclearance.nic.in)
Gujarat and DP World Logistics Agreements, 2024, DST News (DST News, 2024)