Patna!
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india-guide.in
Population
1.7 million
Best Time
October to March
Time Needed
2-3 days minimum
Currency
Rupee (₹)
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Patna, the capital of Bihar, is a city steeped in history, once known as Pataliputra, the seat of ancient empires. Situated on the banks of the Ganges, it's a bustling urban center with a blend of ancient ruins and modern development.
Patna offers a glimpse into India's rich past, with significant historical and religious sites. However, it can be crowded and chaotic, with limited tourist infrastructure compared to other major cities. Visit if you are interested in exploring ancient Indian history and culture, but be prepared for a less polished travel experience.
Plan for at least two to three days to explore the main attractions. Getting around is best done by auto-rickshaw or taxi. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly guesthouses to comfortable hotels.
October to March
20-30 degrees C
The weather is pleasant and dry during this time, making it ideal for sightseeing. Days are sunny, and nights are cool.
Why Visit:
This is the best time to explore Patna's historical sites and enjoy outdoor activities. The weather is perfect for walking around and visiting temples. The city also hosts several festivals during this period.
Tip: Expect moderate crowds at popular attractions, especially during festivals. Booking accommodation in advance is recommended.
July to September
30-35 degrees C
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and high humidity. Some areas may experience waterlogging.
Why Visit:
The landscape is lush and green, and the city is less crowded. However, the heavy rains can disrupt travel plans.
Tip: Be prepared for potential delays and disruptions due to the weather. Carry rain gear and check weather forecasts regularly.
April to June
35-45 degrees C
The summer months are extremely hot and dry. The heat can be unbearable for outdoor activities.
Why Avoid:
Avoid visiting during this time due to the intense heat. Sightseeing can be uncomfortable, and heatstroke is a risk.
Note: If you must visit, stay indoors during the hottest part of the day. Stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing.
Golghar
The Golghar is a large granary built by the British in 1786. It was designed to store grain for the army during a famine.
Climb the spiral staircase to the top for panoramic views of Patna and the Ganges River. The acoustics inside the Golghar are remarkable.
The entrance fee is minimal, and it's easily accessible by auto-rickshaw. Be prepared for a steep climb to the top.
Hours: 09:00-18:00 daily
Best Time: Late afternoon - to enjoy the sunset view
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw: From Patna Junction, 15 minutes
Honest Take: Worth visiting for the views and historical significance.
💡 Insider Tip:
Visit during sunset for the best views of the city and the Ganges.
Patna Museum
The Patna Museum houses a rich collection of artifacts related to the history of Bihar. It includes Mauryan and Gupta period sculptures, coins, and paintings.
Explore the museum's extensive collection, including the Didarganj Yakshi statue. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of the region's cultural heritage.
Allow ample time to see all the exhibits. Photography is restricted in some areas.
Hours: 10:30-17:00 daily
Closed: Mondays
Best Time: Morning - to avoid crowds
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw: From Gandhi Maidan, 10 minutes
Honest Take: A must-visit for history enthusiasts.
💡 Insider Tip:
Check out the rare collection of ancient Indian coins and sculptures.
Kumhrar
Kumhrar is the site of ancient Pataliputra, the capital of the Mauryan Empire. Excavations have revealed remnants of the ancient city.
Walk through the ruins and imagine the grandeur of the Mauryan Empire. The site includes the remains of an 80-pillared hall.
The site is relatively quiet and peaceful. Wear comfortable shoes as the area is uneven.
Hours: 09:00-17:00 daily
Best Time: Morning - to avoid the midday heat
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw: From Patna Junction, 30 minutes
Honest Take: Worth visiting for history buffs.
💡 Insider Tip:
Hire a local guide to learn more about the history of the site.
Mahatma Gandhi Setu
The Mahatma Gandhi Setu is one of the longest river bridges in India, spanning the Ganges River. It connects Patna to Hajipur.
Drive across the bridge for scenic views of the Ganges. The bridge is an engineering marvel and a vital transportation link.
Traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours. Plan your trip accordingly.
Hours: Open 24 hours
Best Time: Daytime - for clear views
Getting There: Taxi or Auto-rickshaw: From Patna city center, 45 minutes
Honest Take: Worth a drive for the experience and views.
💡 Insider Tip:
Avoid traveling during peak hours to avoid traffic congestion.
ISKCON Temple Patna
The ISKCON Temple in Patna is a beautiful and serene place of worship dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is part of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness.
Attend the morning or evening aarti (prayer ceremony) for a spiritual experience. The temple complex is well-maintained and peaceful.
Dress modestly when visiting the temple. Photography is allowed in some areas but not during prayers.
Hours: 04:30-13:00, 16:30-21:00 daily
Best Time: Morning or Evening - for prayers and aarti
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw: From Patna Junction, 20 minutes
Honest Take: A peaceful place for spiritual seekers.
💡 Insider Tip:
Visit during festivals like Janmashtami for special celebrations.
Srikrishna Science Centre
The Srikrishna Science Centre is an interactive science museum. It's designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages.
Explore the various exhibits on science and technology. The centre features a planetarium and 3D theatre.
It's a great place for families with children. Allow ample time to explore all the exhibits.
Hours: 09:30-18:00 daily
Best Time: Afternoon - good for families
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw: From Gandhi Maidan, 5 minutes
Honest Take: Worth visiting, especially for families with children.
💡 Insider Tip:
Check out the dinosaur exhibit and the 3D show.
Agam Kuan
Agam Kuan is an ancient well believed to date back to the Mauryan period. It is considered to be one of the oldest archaeological sites in Patna.
See the well and the surrounding area, which is considered sacred. Local legends are associated with the well.
The site is relatively small and can be visited quickly. Be respectful of the religious significance of the site.
Hours: Open 24 hours
Best Time: Daytime
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw: From Patna City, 10 minutes
Honest Take: A quick stop for those interested in ancient history.
💡 Insider Tip:
Learn about the local legends associated with the well from the caretaker.
Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Ganges River. Witness the city skyline from a different perspective.
The cruise offers scenic views and a chance to experience the river's cultural significance. Some cruises include dinner or snacks.
Best for: Couples, families
Good to know: Check the cruise schedule and book in advance, especially during peak season.
Participate in a yoga and meditation session at a local retreat. Rejuvenate your mind and body in a peaceful environment.
The session includes guided yoga asanas and meditation techniques. It's a great way to relax and de-stress.
Best for: Wellness travelers
Good to know: Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat if you have one. Some retreats offer accommodation options.
Explore the vibrant local markets of Patna. Sample local snacks and interact with vendors.
The tour provides an insight into the local culture and cuisine. It's a great way to experience the city's daily life.
Best for: Foodies, culture enthusiasts
Good to know: Bargain for the best prices. Try local delicacies like Litti Chokha and Sattu Paratha.
Learn to cook traditional Bihari dishes. Enjoy a hands-on cooking experience with local chefs.
You'll learn to prepare dishes like Litti Chokha, Sattu Paratha, and Khaja. Enjoy the meal you prepared at the end of the class.
Best for: Food lovers
Good to know: Book the class in advance. Some classes offer vegetarian options.
4-6 hours | ₹500-1000 (gift for the couple) | Local families (requires invitation)
Experience the vibrant and elaborate rituals of a traditional Bihari wedding. Witness the colorful processions, music, and dance.
Bihari weddings are known for their rich cultural traditions. Be prepared for a long and festive celebration.
Tip: Requires an invitation from a local family. Dress in traditional attire as a sign of respect.
4 days | Free | Ganges River ghats
Chhath Puja is a major festival in Bihar dedicated to the Sun God. Witness the devotees offering prayers and performing rituals on the banks of the Ganges.
The festival is a unique cultural experience with vibrant colors and devotional atmosphere. It is a four-day celebration with fasting and prayers.
Tip: Be prepared for large crowds. Respect the religious sentiments of the devotees.
1-2 days | ₹100-500 (entry and activities) | Sonepur (near Patna)
The Sonepur Mela is one of the largest cattle fairs in Asia. Witness the trading of animals, cultural performances, and traditional crafts.
The fair is a unique cultural spectacle with a mix of rural and urban elements. It attracts visitors from all over the world.
Tip: The fair is held annually in Sonepur, near Patna. Be prepared for large crowds and bargaining is common.
4-6 hours | ₹300-500 (transport and guide) | Villages near Patna
Experience the rural life of Bihar by visiting a local village. Interact with the villagers and learn about their customs and traditions.
The visit provides an insight into the daily life of rural communities. It's a great way to understand the local culture and heritage.
Tip: Hire a local guide to facilitate communication. Be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
2-3 hours | ₹200-500 | Auditoriums in Patna
Experience the rich tradition of Indian classical music. Attend a concert featuring local and national artists.
The concert provides a glimpse into the cultural heritage of India. It's a great way to appreciate the beauty of classical music.
Tip: Check local listings for concert schedules. Dress modestly and arrive on time.
2-3 hours | ₹20 (Indians), ₹150 (foreigners) | Ashok Rajpath, Patna
The Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library is home to a vast collection of Persian and Arabic manuscripts, paintings, and books. It represents a significant repository of Indo-Islamic culture and scholarship.
Explore the rare and valuable collection of manuscripts and artwork. The library is a treasure trove for researchers and history enthusiasts.
Tip: Photography may be restricted. Check with the library staff for specific guidelines.
Litti Chokha
a traditional Bihari dish made of wheat and sattu, served with mashed potatoes and eggplant (try at roadside stalls)
Sattu Paratha
a flatbread stuffed with sattu (ground gram flour) (try at local restaurants)
Khaja
a sweet pastry made of layered dough and soaked in sugar syrup (try at sweet shops)
Dal Pitthi
rice flour dumplings stuffed with lentils (try at local restaurants)
Malpua
a sweet pancake served with rabri (thickened milk) (try at sweet shops)
Indian
📍 Frazer Road
A popular restaurant serving traditional Bihari cuisine. The atmosphere is casual and the food is delicious.
₹500-800 for two
Mughlai
📍 Near Patna Junction
A great place for biryani lovers. They serve a variety of biryanis with flavorful spices.
₹400-700 for two
North Indian
📍 Bailey Road
A fine-dining restaurant with a modern ambiance. They serve delicious North Indian dishes with a contemporary twist.
₹800-1200 for two
North Indian
📍 Patna Central Mall
A rustic-themed restaurant serving authentic North Indian cuisine. The tandoori dishes are a must-try.
₹600-900 for two
Multi-cuisine
📍 Frazer Road
A restaurant with a sports theme, serving a range of dishes. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming.
₹700-1100 for two
💰 Budget: ₹50-150 per person
⚠️ Tips: Be careful of hygiene. Go during peak hours for fresh food.
A central location with easy access to attractions and transport. It can be noisy and crowded.
Best For: First-time visitors
A quieter area with upscale hotels and restaurants. It's a good option for business travelers and families.
Best For: Business travelers, families
₹800-1200/night
📍 Near Patna Junction
A decent budget option with basic amenities. It is conveniently located near the railway station.
₹800-1200/night
📍 Gandhi Maidan
A simple and affordable hotel in the heart of Patna. It offers comfortable rooms and essential services.
₹700-1000/night
₹2000-3000/night
📍 Bailey Road
A comfortable hotel with modern amenities. It features a restaurant, bar, and fitness center.
₹2000-3000/night
📍 Near Patna Airport
A well-maintained hotel with good service. It offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location near the airport.
₹1800-2500/night
₹4000+/night
📍 Frazer Road
Patna's premier luxury hotel with elegant rooms and excellent dining options. It offers a swimming pool, spa, and multiple restaurants.
₹4000+/night
📍 Opposite Patna Museum
A stylish hotel with modern amenities and a central location. It features a rooftop restaurant and a well-equipped fitness center.
₹3500+/night
Airport: Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport (PAT), 8km from city
Patna Junction (PNBE)
Main railway station with connections to major cities. Located in the heart of Patna.
Rajendra Nagar Terminal (RJPB)
Another major railway station with several long-distance trains. Located a bit outside the city center.
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
Note: Trains more comfortable
💰 ₹50-200 depending on distance
Best for: Short distances, negotiating prices
Bargain before starting the journey. Agree on the fare beforehand.
💰 ₹200-500 depending on distance
Best for: Comfort, longer distances
Book through the app for fixed fares. Can be more expensive during peak hours.
💰 ₹10-30 depending on distance
Best for: Budget travel, experiencing local life
Can be crowded and uncomfortable. Not recommended for tourists.
Wear light, breathable clothing, especially during summer. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1000, Mid: ₹2500, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: Widely available
Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for small transactions, cards accepted at major establishments
Bargaining: Expected at local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers
Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid tap water.
Food: Eat at reputable restaurants. Avoid street food from unhygienic vendors.
Common Issues: Diarrhea, heatstroke; bring necessary medications and stay hydrated.
SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. Requires passport and visa.
WiFi: Available at hotels and some cafes
Language: Hindi is widely spoken. English proficiency is limited, learning a few basic Hindi phrases is helpful.
Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹20-50
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