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Patna!

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Population

1.7 million

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Bihar map East India 🗺️ Offbeat Patna Bihar Ganges Pataliputra Indian Travel Guide

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.

When To Visit

Best Time

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.

Shoulder Season

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.

Avoid

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.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Golghar

⏱ 1 hour ₹10 (Indians), ₹100 (foreigners)

The Golghar is a large granary built by the British in 1786. It was designed to store grain for the army during a famine....

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Patna Museum

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹15 (Indians), ₹250 (foreigners)

The Patna Museum houses a rich collection of artifacts related to the history of Bihar. It includes Mauryan and Gupta period sculptures, coins, and pa...

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Kumhrar

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹5 (Indians), ₹100 (foreigners)

Kumhrar is the site of ancient Pataliputra, the capital of the Mauryan Empire. Excavations have revealed remnants of the ancient city....

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Mahatma Gandhi Setu

⏱ 30 minutes (drive) Free

The Mahatma Gandhi Setu is one of the longest river bridges in India, spanning the Ganges River. It connects Patna to Hajipur....

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ISKCON Temple Patna

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

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 C...

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Srikrishna Science Centre

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹60

The Srikrishna Science Centre is an interactive science museum. It's designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages....

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Agam Kuan

⏱ 30 minutes Free

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....

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Things To Do

attractions

Ganges River Cruise

⏱ 2 hours 💰 ₹500-800 per person

Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Ganges River. Witness the city skyline from a different perspective....

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attractions

Yoga and Meditation Retreat

⏱ 3 hours 💰 ₹800-1200 per person

Participate in a yoga and meditation session at a local retreat. Rejuvenate your mind and body in a peaceful environment...

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attractions

Local Market Tour

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹200-300 per person (including snacks)

Explore the vibrant local markets of Patna. Sample local snacks and interact with vendors....

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attractions

Cooking Class

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹1000-1500 per person

Learn to cook traditional Bihari dishes. Enjoy a hands-on cooking experience with local chefs....

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Attend a Bihari Wedding

4-6 hours | ₹500-1000 (gift for the couple)

Experience the vibrant and elaborate rituals of a traditional Bihari wedding. Witness the colorful p...

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celebration

Chhath Puja Festival

4 days | Free

Chhath Puja is a major festival in Bihar dedicated to the Sun God. Witness the devotees offering pra...

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celebration

Sonepur Mela

1-2 days | ₹100-500 (entry and activities)

The Sonepur Mela is one of the largest cattle fairs in Asia. Witness the trading of animals, cultura...

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celebration

Visit a Local Village

4-6 hours | ₹300-500 (transport and guide)

Experience the rural life of Bihar by visiting a local village. Interact with the villagers and lear...

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celebration

Attend a Classical Music Concert

2-3 hours | ₹200-500

Experience the rich tradition of Indian classical music. Attend a concert featuring local and nation...

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celebration

Explore Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library

2-3 hours | ₹20 (Indians), ₹150 (foreigners)

The Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library is home to a vast collection of Persian and Arabic manuscripts, pa...

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Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Litti Chokha
Litti Chokha

a traditional Bihari dish made of wheat and sattu, served with mashed potatoes and eggplant (try at roadside stalls)

Sattu Paratha
Sattu Paratha

a flatbread stuffed with sattu (ground gram flour) (try at local restaurants)

Khaja
Khaja

a sweet pastry made of layered dough and soaked in sugar syrup (try at sweet shops)

Dal Pitthi
Dal Pitthi

rice flour dumplings stuffed with lentils (try at local restaurants)

Malpua
Malpua

a sweet pancake served with rabri (thickened milk) (try at sweet shops)

Where to Eat

Bansi Vihar

Bansi Vihar

₹₹

Indian

📍 Frazer Road

A popular restaurant serving traditional Bihari cuisine. The atmosphere is casual and the food is delicious.

Litti Chokha

₹500-800 for two

Biryani Mahal

Biryani Mahal

₹₹

Mughlai

📍 Near Patna Junction

A great place for biryani lovers. They serve a variety of biryanis with flavorful spices.

Biryani

₹400-700 for two

Street Food Spots

Maurya Lok Complex

Maurya Lok Complex

💰 Budget: ₹50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be careful of hygiene. Go during peak hours for fresh food.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Patna

More restaurants & dishes from Patna

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Gandhi Maidan

A central location with easy access to attractions and transport. It can be noisy and crowded.

Best For: First-time visitors

Bailey Road

A quieter area with upscale hotels and restaurants. It's a good option for business travelers and families.

Best For: Business travelers, families

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1200/night

Hotel Maurya Patna

📍 Near Patna Junction

A decent budget option with basic amenities. It is conveniently located near the railway station.

₹800-1200/night

Hotel City Centre

📍 Gandhi Maidan

A simple and affordable hotel in the heart of Patna. It offers comfortable rooms and essential services.

₹700-1000/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹2000-3000/night

Hotel Patliputra Exotica

📍 Bailey Road

A comfortable hotel with modern amenities. It features a restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

₹2000-3000/night

Hotel Chanakya

📍 Near Patna Airport

A well-maintained hotel with good service. It offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location near the airport.

₹1800-2500/night

Luxury

₹4000+/night

The Maurya

📍 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

Lemon Tree Premier Patna

📍 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

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport (PAT), 8km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

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.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 12-15 hours (₹800-2500)
  • From Mumbai: 28-32 hours (₹1200-4000)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Mithapur Bus Stand
  • Gandhi Maidan Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Gaya: 3 hours (₹200-300)

Note: Trains more comfortable

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹50-200 depending on distance

Best for: Short distances, negotiating prices

Bargain before starting the journey. Agree on the fare beforehand.

directions

Taxi/Uber/Ola

💰 ₹200-500 depending on distance

Best for: Comfort, longer distances

Book through the app for fixed fares. Can be more expensive during peak hours.

directions

Local Bus

💰 ₹10-30 depending on distance

Best for: Budget travel, experiencing local life

Can be crowded and uncomfortable. Not recommended for tourists.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Wear light, breathable clothing, especially during summer. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

payments

Money

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

health_and_safety

Health

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_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. Requires passport and visa.

WiFi: Available at hotels and some cafes

translate

Language & Tipping

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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