Surat to Ahmedabad Road Trip Guide (Route Map, Tolls & Tips)
The Surat to Ahmedabad route is the most famous drive in Gujarat. A journey of approx 250-275 km connecting the famous Diamond city of Surat to the traditionally lively city of Ahmedabad. So, in case you’re planning a weekend getaway, family trip, or a business travel via road trip from Surat to Ahmedabad, this route is going to be the most rewarding drive because of its scenic highway views, and roadside dhabas, etc., will ensure a memorable journey.
With the last phase development of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, this route in 2026 will also ensure a faster and traffic-free drive.
Here in this guide, we’ll explore the detailed information about the important Toll plazas, shortcut routes on the map, and FASTag tips, along with famous picnic spots and dhabas for short breaks between drives.
Best Routes from Surat to Ahmedabad
The main route between Surat and Ahmedabad is NH48, also known as the old Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway. Due to its status as a prime connecting route between 2 of India’s business cities, its excellent condition was always helpful in smooth drives.
With recent developments of expressways like the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway for fast transportation, the journey between Surat and Ahmedabad becomes all the more rewarding in terms of smooth drives, famous leisure spots, and scenic views along the highway.
Recommended Route (Fastest & Most Scenic – Via NH 48 & Partial Expressway)
- Distance: ~265 km
- Time:- 4-5 hours (without stops; can be 3.5-4 hours on expressway sections)
- Journey:-
- Start your journey from Surat city center
- Head towards the north direction on NH 48 towards the Kamej route.
- Continue navigating via Navsari, Valsad bypass, then enter the Delhi-Mumbai expressway near the Kim.
- Cross the Ankleshwar and the Narmada Bridge of Bharuch
- Reach Vadodara via the Bypass or NE-1 expressway link.
- Once you reach Vadodara, take NE-1 Ahmedabad-Vadodara Expressway for the final leg of the journey, which is approximately 92-95 km.
- Enter Ahmedabad via SP Ring Road or Sarkhej.
NH 48 is a combination of state highway and National Expressways like NE 1. This makes the journey faster and hassle-free as compared to the regular route, where there is heavy traffic. The recent development of the business corridor across Delhi-Mumbai via the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is going to reduce travel time between the Surat and Ahmedabad routes as well.
Alternative Route (Slightly Longer, More Rural)
Via NH 47 and inner roads: ~280 km, 5-6 hours. Avoid it if possible, as it’s slower with more local traffic.
Use Google Maps or MapMyIndia for real-time updates, as expressway interchanges are new.
Tolls on Surat to Ahmedabad Route (2026 Rates)
Gujarat’s highways are well-maintained but tolled. Expect 4-6 toll plazas, depending on the exact path. FASTag is mandatory on national highways – it saves time and offers discounts.
Estimated Total Toll for Car/Jeep (One-Way): ₹400-500 (as of early 2026; rates increased 3-5% in June 2025).
Key Plazas:
- Kim/Kosamba area (Delhi-Mumbai Expressway entry): ~₹100-150
- Bharuch/Ankleshwar: ~₹100
- Vadodara bypass: ~₹50-80
- NE-1 (Ahmedabad-Vadodara Expressway): ₹140-150 (single journey for car)
Return journey discounts available.
Trucks/LCVs pay higher (₹600+ total).
Use TollGuru or the NHAI app for exact calculations. Cash lanes exist but are slower. Rates are subject to annual WPI-based hikes.
Must-Visit Stops & Attractions Along the Way
Break the drive with these popular halts – perfect for photos, snacks, or short detours.
1. Kamrej (30-45 mins from Surat):- Galteshwar Mahadev Temple or nearby waterfalls (seasonal), and Great for a quick tea break.
2. Bharuch/Ankleshwar (~1.5 hours from Surat):- Bharuch Fort and Golden Bridge over Narmada River – historic views, Narmada Park for relaxation, and Ankleshwar has industrial vibes but good dhabas.
3. Vadodara (Midway Point, ~3 hours from Surat):- Laxmi Vilas Palace (grand architecture), Sayaji Baug (zoo and gardens), and Ideal for lunch or a longer break.
Other Quick Stops:- Kabirvad (island temple near Bharuch), Roadside viewpoints on the expressway for Gujarat’s green fields.
Tip:- Plan 1-2 stops for a relaxed 6-8 hour trip.
Best Food Stops & Dhabas
Gujarat highways are famous for vegetarian dhabas serving fresh Gujarati thali, snacks, and chai.
Popular Dhabas:
- Near Kamrej: Local eateries for Surati locho or undhiyu.
- Bharuch area: Jay Jalaram or Honest-like chains for unlimited thali (~₹200-300).
- Ankleshwar: Famous for non-veg options if available, or Punjabi dhabas.
- Midway (Karjan/Vadodara bypass): Large complexes like Food Plaza with AC dining.
- NE-1 section: Modern rest areas with brands like McDonald’s or CCD.
Must try the local Gujrati cousin along the Highway dhabas and roadside stalls like fresh sugar cane juice, jalabi- fafda, or famous Dabali.
Driving Tips & Safety for Surat-Ahmedabad Road Trip
- Best Time to Travel: during summer, start your journey early in the morning to avoid traffic and heat. During Winters (Oct-Feb) is ideal – due to pleasant weather. Avoid travel via road during monsoon (Jul-Sep) due to waterlogging; summers can be scorching.
- Check Vehicle: It is recommended to always check tires, brakes, AC, and fuel condition of your vehicle before starting the journey. Carry a spare tire, water, and snacks.
- Safety:
- Don’t overspeed. Stick to speed limits (100-120 km/h on expressways).
- Always avoid overtaking. Watch for trucks and overtaking on highways.
- Use FASTag lanes.
- Take frequent breaks in between. Rest every 2 hours – fatigue is common on long straights.
- In case of emergency: dial NHAI helpline 1033.
- Fuel & Charging: Stations every 25-30 km. EV chargers are increasing on NE-1.
- Traffic Hotspots: Near Bharuch bridge and Vadodara entry – check live updates.
For families, hire a cab or self-drive SUV for comfort.
Guaranteed Safety and Quick Rides
In case it’s your first time traveling via road route between Surat and Ahmedabad, it’s recommended to travel via a cab service or a taxi. New and unfamiliar routes can make your journey an unpleasant experience, so it’s best to travel via a taxi service for the first few journeys to make you familiar with the route.
RK Cabs. With years of experience in the transportation industry, they have established themselves as a trusted provider of cab services. Their team of professional and courteous drivers is dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service. They undergo rigorous training and are well-versed in navigating the roads efficiently, ensuring that you reach your destination on time.
Also read: Taxi vs cab: Difference, similarities, and which is best.
Arrival in Ahmedabad: What to Explore
End your memorable trip by visiting the most famous tourist spots of Ahmedabad, like Sabarmati Riverfront, Gandhi ji’s Sabarmati Ashram, Science City Ahmedabad, Adalaj Vav, and side lakeside of Kankaria lake.
This surat to Ahmedabad taxi Service road trip blends modern highways with Gujarat’s charm. With new expressways open in 2025, it’s quicker than ever. Pack your bags, fuel up, and hit the road for an unforgettable Gujarat adventure!
Unlike other services, RK Cabs provides a network in both cities that allows us to offer affordable one-way fares without charging for return trips. You only pay for your actual journey from Surat to Mumbai.
Yes, we do take last-minute bookings, both through the website and our customer care number. We respond to immediate bookings within less than 15 minutes on average.
RK Cabs offers free cancellation up to 2 hours before your scheduled pickup time. For later cancellations, a nominal fee applies. You can modify your booking through our customer care.
We have multiple payment options- cash, UPI, credit/debit cards, and net banking. You can select any of these at the time of booking.
All our vehicles are equipped with GPS tracking, first-aid kits, and are regularly sanitised. We also provide driver details and live tracking to the customer before the journey.
Yes, though we specialise in Surat-Mumbai routes, we also serve other major routes in Gujarat and Maharashtra. Please check our website for route availability or call customer care.
