History
The Gujarat Maritime Board approved Hazira Port in 2002. Development was led by Hazira Port Private Limited, a joint venture between Shell Gas B.V. and Total Gaz Electricité Holdings, with investment of over USD 700 million. The port became operational in 2005 with deep-water, all-weather berths and an LNG terminal (environmentclearance.nic.in).
In 2023, the acquisition by ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India further integrated the port with the region’s steel and logistics complex (Outlook Business, 2023). Infrastructure upgrades and partnerships, including with DP World, continue to develop the port’s capacity and connectivity (DST News, 2024).
Economic role and infrastructure
Hazira Port handles cargo supporting industries including chemicals, steel, pharmaceuticals, and automotive components. Its integration with AM/NS India’s steel plant supports imports, exports, and trade logistics in western India. Annual cargo throughput is projected to reach 6.9 million tonnes by 2025–26, with upgrades including direct links to the Dedicated Freight Corridor (Global Gujarat; Care Ratings, 2025).
The port’s infrastructure includes:
- Jetties and berths Deep-water jetties accommodate Panamax and Capesize vessels. The facility has 1,100 metres of jetty and 140 hectares of storage area, with a maximum annual capacity of 50 MMTPA (Care Ratings, 2025).
- Cargo handling The port handles bulk cargoes including iron ore, coal, limestone, and steel products, supported by automated conveyor systems.
- Utilities Integrated power plants include a 270 MW multi-fuel plant and a 515 MW gas-based plant (Outlook Business, 2023).
- Logistics Road and rail connections support port operations. DP World’s Unifeeder Group provides coastal and inland logistics services (DST News, 2024).
What to see in Hazira and Surat
Hazira Beach and hot springs
Hazira Beach is a stretch of golden sand along the Arabian Sea, with local seafood stalls and homestays. It is described as a place for relaxation, family outings, and photography. Suggested visiting hours are 7 AM–7 PM (Trek Zone; Thrillophilia; TripzyGo).
Hazira’s natural hot springs are known for mineral-rich waters and have basic facilities. They are listed as open daily from 8 AM–6 PM (Triphobo).
Surat’s historical and cultural sites
- Surat Castle A 16th-century fort, open 9 AM–6 PM; tickets cost INR 10–30 (Holidify).
- Dutch Garden A colonial-era cemetery, open 8 AM–5 PM.
- Ambika Niketan Temple Open throughout the day.
- Dumas Beach A black-sand beach, open from sunrise to sunset.
Food and festivals
Local foods include locho, khaman, undhiyu, and fresh seafood at area eateries (TripzyGo). Surat’s festivals include Navratri, Diwali, Holi, and Uttarayan, with celebrations from September through February (TripzyGo).
Practical visiting information
Port access and visiting hours
General public access to Hazira Port is restricted, and there are no regular tourist tours. Business visitors and industrial delegations need prior authorization from AMNS Ports Hazira Limited or the Gujarat Maritime Board. Visits by appointment are possible during standard business hours, subject to safety and security protocols.
For authorized visitors, port-area access is listed as 6:00 AM–8:00 PM. These hours do not make the port open to walk-in visitors.
Hazira occasionally hosts special events and industrial tours for business groups by prior arrangement. In 2025, the visit of INS Surat showcased the port’s capabilities to select dignitaries (Mid-Day, 2025; DeshGujarat, 2025).
Getting there
- By road Hazira is 22–27 km from Surat and can be reached by GSRTC bus, taxi, or private vehicle (Wikiwand).
- By rail The nearest station is Pipolod, 8.8 km from the port.
- By air Surat International Airport offers regional connectivity.
Private vehicles or pre-arranged transport are recommended for port visits.
RoRo ferry tickets and journey
The RoRo ferry connects Hazira and Ghogha. Advance online booking is available through DG Sea Connect (Revolving Compass).
A car fare is approximately INR 1,000; passenger fares vary by class. Ferry passengers should check in an hour before departure. Wristbands are issued at check-in, and vehicles are loaded via ramps. Facilities include waiting areas, secure parking, cafes, restrooms, and recreational courts (Yappe.in).
Onboard classes are VIP, Executive, and Business. Amenities include basic seating, snacks, and an upper deck with scenic views. The journey takes about 4 hours 45 minutes; the total trip, including check-in, is about 7 hours (Revolving Compass). Facilities generally support travellers with disabilities, but confirm in advance.
Tips
- Arrange port authorization well in advance.
- Follow port safety protocols and wear appropriate gear.
- Photography inside the port requires approval.
- November–February is listed as the best time for pleasant weather.
- Ferry check-in is an hour before departure; port authorization and ferry check-in are separate requirements.
Nearby places
The waterfront is suitable for sunrise and sunset photography and cycling. Other nearby places and experiences include Suvali Beach, Hazira Lighthouse, local temples, and Surat’s historical sites.
Day trips include Daman and Diu, temples in Bharuch, and the Zoroastrian heritage sites of Valsad and Udvada.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can tourists visit Hazira Port?
Public entry is restricted. Business or group visits require prior permission.
Q2: What are the visiting hours?
For authorized visitors, the port area is listed as accessible from 6:00 AM–8:00 PM. Visits are also described as taking place by appointment during standard business hours. Ferry check-in times may differ.
Q3: How do I book ferry tickets?
Book online at DG Sea Connect.
Q4: Are there industrial tours?
Tours are available only by prior arrangement for business or educational groups.
Q5: What attractions are nearby?
Nearby attractions include Hazira Beach, the hot springs, Surat Castle, Dutch Garden, and Dumas Beach.
