With the eagerness to visit Dutch cemetery we were sceptical of walking on the ground below several dead bodies which have been buried.  The cemetery contains several tombs of the Dutch who lived in Surat pre independence era.  The construction is just amazing and looks very pretty. Most of the wall painting have been worn out from structures. Some design details can be seen on roof. But still it looks stunning.
1 / 10

Dutch Cemetery Katargam

4.2
·607 reviews·Surat, India

A historical gem in Surat, featuring unique colonial-era tombs with a blend of European and Indo-Islamic architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning (9 AM - 10 AM)

Golden hour light for photos

CrowdLow
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With the eagerness to visit Dutch cemetery we were sceptical of walking on the ground below several dead bodies which have been buried.  The cemetery contains several tombs of the Dutch who lived in Surat pre independence era.  The construction is just amazing and looks very pretty. Most of the wall painting have been worn out from structures. Some design details can be seen on roof. But still it looks stunning.

Dutch Cemetery Katargam

Best Time

Morning (9 AM - 10 AM)

Golden hour light for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historical gem in Surat, featuring unique colonial-era tombs with a blend of European and Indo-Islamic architecture.

4.2
(607 reviews)

"A photographer's dream with historical gravitas, though preservation efforts are sorely needed."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Photographer's Dream

Perfect for photoshoots and short films! Visit early for the best light.

🚶‍♂️ Explore Adjacent Cemeteries

Don't miss the Armenian and British cemeteries nearby for a fuller historical picture.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Baron Adrian Van Reede's Mausoleum

Baron Adrian Van Reede's Mausoleum

Dutch Cemetery

The most magnificent tomb, showcasing grand colonial architecture amidst historical graves.

Architectural Blend

Architectural Blend

Dutch and Armenian Cemeteries

A unique fusion of European and Indo-Islamic styles, offering a glimpse into Surat's colonial past.

Photographer's Paradise

Photographer's Paradise

Dutch Cemetery

Ideal for photoshoots and short films with its historical ambiance and unique tomb designs.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit during daylight hours, ideally between 9 AM and 10 AM for the best light for photography. The cemetery is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, but early morning offers a peaceful experience before potential crowds and harsh midday sun.

Preservation Concerns

While a historical gem, the Dutch Cemetery Katargam faces neglect. Be prepared for a less-than-perfectly maintained exterior. Your visit contributes to awareness, but manage expectations regarding upkeep.

Best Times

When
Morning (9 AM - 10 AM)
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Daytime (10 AM - 5 PM)
Why
Open hours for exploration
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hidden Place in Surat ⬇️ Location 📍 Katargam Rd, Rampura, Raman Nagar, Katargam Darwaja, Surat, 📍 For Exact Directions Simply search on google “ Dutch Cemetery Surat “ Time :- 10 AM TO 5 PM To explore more places near Surat Follow @avi17rider About The Place :- Good place to visit and best place to get your photoshoots done and the history is so good that you should know if you have keen i...
xploravi17
7.7K likes • 146K views

📸 Photographer's Dream

Perfect for photoshoots and short films! Visit early for the best light. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♂️ Explore Adjacent Cemeteries

Don't miss the Armenian and British cemeteries nearby for a fuller historical picture. Instagram+1

Exploring British Cemetery ~ 190 Year Old Heritage Of Surat 😱😍 Armenian Cemetery - The cemetery is adjacent to the Dutch cemetery situated near Katargam Road Surat, India There is only one mausoleum and a main chapel structure which is supposed to have been built around 1579. Around the chapel, there are about 200 graves with tombstones in this cemetery. ~ To Explore More Places Follow @heyy_me...
heyy_megh_patel
0 likes • 3.3K views
Surat ❤️Dutch Cemetery :- A historical place to visit in Surat . Amazing video by :- @subtle_perspective. #suratsmartcity #suratupdates #katargam #rander #adajan #athwalines #parlepoint #piplod #dumas #vesu #bhatar #bhagal #Udhna #parvatpatiya #pandesara #limbayat #kadodara #kamrej
suratupdatesofficial
2.4K likes • 39.1K views

🚗 Navigate the Approach

The road can be narrow and unmaintained; use Google Maps for precise directions. InstagramReddit

🆓 Free Entry

Admission is free, making it an accessible historical site for all. Reddit

British Cemetery ~ 190 Year Old Heritage Of Surat 😱 Armenian Cemetery - The cemetery is adjacent to the Dutch cemetery situated near Katargam Road Surat, India 😍 There is only one mausoleum and a main chapel structure which is supposed to have been built around 1579. Around the chapel, there are about 200 graves with tombstones in this cemetery 📍British Cemetery, Katargam Darwaja Rd, Kubernagar...
vibe_with_suratcity
0 likes • 6.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photographer's Dream

Perfect for photoshoots and short films! Visit early for the best light. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♂️ Explore Adjacent Cemeteries

Don't miss the Armenian and British cemeteries nearby for a fuller historical picture. Instagram+1

🚗 Navigate the Approach

The road can be narrow and unmaintained; use Google Maps for precise directions. InstagramReddit

🆓 Free Entry

Admission is free, making it an accessible historical site for all. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Carry water, especially during warmer months, as facilities are limited. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(607 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Dutch Cemetery Katargam for its unique blend of European and Indo-Islamic architecture and its historical significance, making it a great spot for photographers. However, many lament the lack of maintenance and the unkempt surroundings, urging authorities to take action for preservation.

"A blend of European and Indo- Islamic architecture, these tombs are one of the most important historical monument in the city of Surat; which is now completely ignored. Inside the compound, the tomb area is moderately clean but outside area is very dirty. A narrow road leads to this place which is not maintained and it goes through a cluster of buildings. It’s strange how Surat municipality and Gujarat tourism have so easily and completely ignored and have bot maintained such an important place. Humble request to anyone who reads this review and who is in power to do something; kindly take some steps to preserve these cemetery or in 50 years or so there will be no remnants left to see!"

RUTVIK DEORE

"It is a nice place to visit. The route to here is not much good and it is too small. There is no sign boards here. There is no tickets to enter into this cemetery, even there is no security guys or employees here. Construction wise the cemetery is really nice. But no one is taking care of the place. People who are staying nearby are not considering this as a place of attraction"

Anuraj Vm

"Really peaceful and eye catching place I would say this is. If you're a photographer you will definitely feel good about this place and also this is a really good place for making short films or doing some videography! Some new buildings surrounding this historical place would itch you if you're a photographer! The place is perfect for shooting some songs! There are lesser graves here than English cemetery so you can freely roam! The best time to go there is between 9am to 10am when you have good sunlight there! And it opens at 9am in morning."

Yash Rotliwala

What People Like

Unique architecture
Historical significance
Photogenic location

What People Dislike

Lack of maintenance
Dirty surroundings
Poor road access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Dutch Cemetery is located near Katargam Road in Surat. For precise directions, it's best to search 'Dutch Cemetery Surat' on Google Maps, as the approach road can be narrow and unmaintained. InstagramReddit

While specific bus routes directly to the cemetery might be limited, local auto-rickshaws and ride-sharing services can easily take you to the Katargam area. From there, a short walk might be necessary. Instagram

Using a GPS navigation app and searching for 'Dutch Cemetery Surat' is highly recommended. Be prepared for potentially tight turns and a less-than-ideal road surface as you get closer. Instagram

Unfortunately, many visitors report a lack of clear signboards leading to the cemetery, making navigation a bit challenging. Relying on digital maps is advisable. Reddit

Dedicated parking is generally not available. You may need to find a suitable spot on the nearby streets, keeping in mind the narrowness of the approach. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Dutch Cemetery is free of cost. This makes it an accessible historical site for everyone to explore. Reddit

The cemetery is typically open from 10 AM to 5 PM. However, some sources suggest visiting earlier, around 9 AM, for better photography light and a more peaceful experience. InstagramReddit

Similar to the Dutch Cemetery, the Armenian Cemetery also offers free entry, allowing visitors to explore both historical sites without charge. Instagram

Yes, the cemetery is open on weekends. However, weekends might see slightly more visitors compared to weekdays. Instagram

Visitors have noted the absence of security personnel or employees at the site, contributing to its less-maintained appearance. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Videography

Yes, photography and videography are permitted. The cemetery is considered a great spot for photoshoots, short films, and even music videos due to its historical ambiance. InstagramReddit

The early morning, between 9 AM and 10 AM, is highly recommended for photography. The sunlight is softer and more conducive for capturing the architectural details and atmosphere. Reddit

There are no specific mentions of drone usage restrictions, but it's always advisable to check local regulations before flying drones in historical or public areas. Instagram

It's ideal for historical, architectural, and even pre-wedding photoshoots. The unique tombs and colonial architecture provide a distinctive backdrop. InstagramReddit

Yes, the cemetery is a popular spot for professional photoshoots, including pre-wedding shoots, due to its aesthetic appeal. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture

The cemetery holds significant historical value as it contains tombs of Dutch individuals from the 17th and 18th centuries, reflecting Surat's colonial past and trade connections. InstagramReddit

The architecture is a blend of European and Indo-Islamic styles, with the grand mausoleum of Baron Adrian Van Reede being a prime example of magnificent colonial architecture. InstagramReddit

The Dutch cemetery is approximately 350 years old, with tombs dating back to the colonial era. Reddit

Yes, the Armenian Cemetery is adjacent to the Dutch Cemetery and is even older, with some structures potentially dating back to 1579. Instagram+1

While the tombs themselves are historically significant, the overall condition of the monuments has weathered with time, and there are concerns about preservation. Reddit+1

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

Despite its historical significance, the atmosphere can be mixed. While some find it peaceful and eye-catching, others note the neglect of the surrounding areas. Reddit+1

Compared to the nearby British cemetery, the Dutch Cemetery has fewer graves, allowing for easier exploration and photography. Reddit

There are very limited amenities. Visitors should not expect facilities like restrooms, cafes, or even security personnel. Reddit

The tomb area itself is described as moderately clean, but the outside areas and the approach road are often noted as very dirty and unmaintained. Reddit

It can be a good place for younger kids to see old structures and learn about history, especially since entry is free and there are fewer graves to navigate. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Dutch Cemetery Katargam can be an interesting, albeit brief, educational stop for families. Entry is free, making it an accessible outing. Kids can explore the unique tomb structures and learn about historical figures like Baron Adrian Van Reede. Reddit

It's advisable to visit during daylight hours and perhaps combine it with a visit to a nearby park or attraction, as the cemetery itself doesn't offer extensive activities. Keep expectations about the surrounding cleanliness managed, and focus on the historical aspect. Carrying water and snacks is recommended as there are no facilities on-site. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This cemetery is a photographer's delight, offering a unique blend of colonial architecture and historical gravitas. The tombs, especially Baron Adrian Van Reede's mausoleum, provide excellent subjects. InstagramReddit

Aim for early morning visits (9-10 AM) for the best natural light, which will enhance the textures and details of the stone. The adjacent Armenian and British cemeteries also offer complementary photographic opportunities. Be prepared for the less-than-pristine surroundings, but focus on capturing the historical essence. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Dutch Cemetery Katargam is a fantastic find. Entry is completely free, and it offers a significant historical and architectural experience without any cost. Reddit

Combine your visit with exploring other free attractions in Surat or pack your own snacks and water to keep costs down. The main expense would be transportation to the site, which can be managed with local buses or shared autos. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Surat's Colonial Past

The Dutch Cemetery Katargam stands as a poignant reminder of Surat's historical significance as a major trading port during the colonial era. Established around 350 years ago, it houses the tombs of Dutch officials and merchants who played a role in the city's economic and political landscape. The architecture of the tombs, particularly the grand mausoleum of Baron Adrian Van Reede, showcases a blend of European and Indo-Islamic influences, reflecting the cultural exchange of the time. InstagramReddit

Adjacent to the Dutch Cemetery lies the Armenian Cemetery, which is even older and holds its own historical narrative. Together, these burial grounds offer a unique opportunity to connect with Surat's layered history. However, a recurring theme in visitor feedback is the lack of maintenance and preservation efforts by local authorities, which detracts from the potential of these historical sites. Reddit+1

Despite the upkeep challenges, the cemeteries remain valuable for their architectural merit and historical insights. They are particularly appealing to photographers and history enthusiasts looking for off-the-beaten-path heritage sites. InstagramReddit

Photography and Videography Opportunities

For photographers and videographers, the Dutch Cemetery Katargam presents a unique canvas. The historical tombs, with their intricate designs and weathered facades, offer a dramatic and atmospheric backdrop. The blend of architectural styles provides visual interest, making it a popular spot for pre-wedding shoots and short films. InstagramReddit

The best time to capture the cemetery's essence is during the early morning hours, between 9 AM and 10 AM. This 'golden hour' provides soft, diffused light that enhances the textures and details of the tombs, avoiding the harsh shadows of midday. The relative quietness of the morning also contributes to a more serene shooting experience. Reddit

While the cemetery itself is a great subject, visitors should be mindful of the surrounding urban environment, which can sometimes intrude on the historical ambiance. Nevertheless, with a keen eye, photographers can find compelling compositions that highlight the cemetery's enduring legacy. Reddit

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