It would be unfair to make a comparison between NIT Surathkal and lIT Roorkee, as both institutions have their own strengths and reputations. Yet if I were asked to choose one, I would have definitely gone for IIT Roorkee as it is at a whole different level from NIT Surathkal. 

Here are a few reasons that justify my claim:

• IIT Roorkee ranks 6 among other IITs
• It is Asia's oldest Engineering college
• You get the tag of being an IITian
• It has an extensive alumni network owing to its early establishment 

The only condition under which I would recommend you choose NIT Surathkal over IIT Roorkee is when you are getting CSE at NIT and Metallurgy at IIT Roorkee. Else, choosing IIT Roorkee over NIT Surathkal will always be a wise decision.