Chennai to Patna: 1896 km Road Guide 23h 23m Drive — Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Chennai to Patna? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 1896km journey. Explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Chennai to Patna
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 23h 23m | ₹18,107 Fuel & Tolls |
| flight Flight | ~3h 00m | ₹6,636 - ₹13,272 |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹1,048 – ₹3,867 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹2,961 – ₹12,714 |
How to Reach Patna from Chennai: Car, Train, Bus & Flight Options
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
Drive Chennai to Patna (1896 km, 23h 23m)
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
Fly Chennai to Patna (~3h 00m flight)
Speed, long distances, business travel
Train from Chennai to Patna
Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly
Bus from Chennai to Patna
Budget travel, multiple stops
lightbulb Our Recommendation
For this 1896km long-distance journey, consider flying (~3h 00m) to save time, or take a train for a more scenic and relaxed experience.
What to Eat in Chennai Before You Hit the Road
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Must-Try Food in Chennai Before Your Drive
- local_dining Idli and Sambar - Soft, steamed rice cakes served with lentil soup and chutney (try at Murugan Idli Shop).
- local_dining Dosa - Crispy rice and lentil crepe filled with potatoes or other fillings (try at Saravana Bhavan).
- local_dining Chettinad Chicken - Spicy chicken curry with a blend of aromatic spices (try at Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant).
Saravana Bhavan • Various locations
Road Trip Stops: Best Cities Between Chennai and Patna
These cities sit along your Chennai to Patna route corridor and are worth a brief stop:
Machilipatnam Travel Guide: Things to Do, How to Reach, Best Time to Visit
Machilipatnam, also known as Masulipatnam, is a historic port city in Andhra Pradesh. It was a significant trading hub for the Dutch, British, and French. Today, it is known for its fishing industry, cotton mills, and the unique Kalamkari art form.
attractions Top Attractions
Manginapudi Beach
Kalamkari Art Village (Pedana)
Machilipatnam Lighthouse
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Chepala Pulusu - spicy fish curry, a local specialty. Get it at Hotel Grand, rupees 300-450.
Narasapur Travel Guide: Things to Do, How to Reach, Best Time to Visit
Narasapur is a bustling fishing port town located in the West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh. It sits at the confluence of the Godavari River and the Bay of Bengal, offering unique delta landscapes and abundant fresh seafood. This town is not a typical tourist hotspot but provides an authentic glimpse into coastal Andhra life.
attractions Top Attractions
Antarvedi Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple
Perupalem Beach
Narasapur Godavari Riverfront & Fishing Harbour
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Chepala Pulusu - Tangy fish curry, a staple of Andhra cuisine, available at most local restaurants, rupees 250-400
Akividu Travel Guide: Things to Do, How to Reach, Best Time to Visit
Akividu, a small town in Andhra Pradesh's West Godavari district, is primarily an aquaculture and agricultural hub. It is not a typical tourist destination with grand monuments or bustling city life. Instead, it offers a glimpse into rural Andhra life, centered around its vast fish and prawn farms.
attractions Top Attractions
Kolleru Lake Bird Sanctuary
Akividu Fish Market
Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Chepala Pulusu - Spicy Andhra fish curry, tangy with tamarind, best with rice. Available at Sri Rama Mess, rupees 200-300.
Bhimavaram Travel Guide: Things to Do, How to Reach, Best Time to Visit
Bhimavaram is a significant railway town in Andhra Pradesh, nestled in the fertile Godavari delta. It is primarily known as a commercial hub for rice and agriculture, and for its important temples. Do not expect a bustling tourist destination; it is more a place for local pilgrims and business travelers.
attractions Top Attractions
Mavullamma Temple
Sri Someswara Janardana Swamy Temple
Gundugolanu Sri Venugopala Swamy Temple
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Pulihora - Tangy tamarind rice, a staple in Andhra cuisine. Available at most local eateries, rupees 50-80.
Palacol Travel Guide: Things to Do, How to Reach, Best Time to Visit
Palacol, also known as Palakollu, is a small coastal town in Andhra Pradesh. It is primarily known for the ancient Ksheerarama Temple, one of the five Pancharama Kshetrams dedicated to Lord Shiva. This town offers a glimpse into authentic Andhra coastal life, far from major tourist crowds.
attractions Top Attractions
Ksheerarama Temple
Perupalem Beach
Palacol Fishing Harbour
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Chepala Pulusu - Spicy and tangy fish curry, a coastal Andhra specialty. Try at Hotel Grand, rupees 250-350.
Top Attractions in Patna: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Patna, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
-
Golghar
⏱ 1 hour • 💰 ₹10 (Indians), ₹100 (foreigners) • 🕐 09:00-18:00 dailyThe Golghar is a large granary built by the British in 1786. It was designed to store grain for the army during a famine.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon - to enjoy the sunset view
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during sunset for the best views of the city and the Ganges.
-
Patna Museum
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 ₹15 (Indians), ₹250 (foreigners) • 🕐 10:30-17:00 dailyThe Patna Museum houses a rich collection of artifacts related to the history of Bihar. It includes Mauryan and Gupta period sculptures, coins, and paintings.
Best Time to Visit: Morning - to avoid crowds
💡 Insider Tip: Check out the rare collection of ancient Indian coins and sculptures.
-
Kumhrar
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 ₹5 (Indians), ₹100 (foreigners) • 🕐 09:00-17:00 dailyKumhrar is the site of ancient Pataliputra, the capital of the Mauryan Empire. Excavations have revealed remnants of the ancient city.
Best Time to Visit: Morning - to avoid the midday heat
💡 Insider Tip: Hire a local guide to learn more about the history of the site.
-
Mahatma Gandhi Setu
⏱ 30 minutes (drive) • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursThe Mahatma Gandhi Setu is one of the longest river bridges in India, spanning the Ganges River. It connects Patna to Hajipur.
Best Time to Visit: Daytime - for clear views
💡 Insider Tip: Avoid traveling during peak hours to avoid traffic congestion.
-
ISKCON Temple Patna
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 04:30-13:00, 16:30-21:00 dailyThe 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.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or Evening - for prayers and aarti
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during festivals like Janmashtami for special celebrations.
-
Srikrishna Science Centre
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 ₹60 • 🕐 09:30-18:00 dailyThe Srikrishna Science Centre is an interactive science museum. It's designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages.
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon - good for families
💡 Insider Tip: Check out the dinosaur exhibit and the 3D show.
Where to Eat in Patna: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Patna
Don't leave Patna without tasting these local specialties:
- 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)
Recommended Restaurants in Patna
Bansi Vihar
Indian • ₹₹ (₹500-800 for two)
Specialty: Litti Chokha
A popular restaurant serving traditional Bihari cuisine. The atmosphere is casual and the food is delicious.
📍 Frazer Road
Biryani Mahal
Mughlai • ₹₹ (₹400-700 for two)
Specialty: Biryani
A great place for biryani lovers. They serve a variety of biryanis with flavorful spices.
📍 Near Patna Junction
The Yellow Chilli
North Indian • ₹₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two)
Specialty: Butter Chicken
A fine-dining restaurant with a modern ambiance. They serve delicious North Indian dishes with a contemporary twist.
📍 Bailey Road
Pind Balluchi
North Indian • ₹₹ (₹600-900 for two)
Specialty: Tandoori Dishes
A rustic-themed restaurant serving authentic North Indian cuisine. The tandoori dishes are a must-try.
📍 Patna Central Mall
Where to Stay in Patna: Hotels for Every Budget
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
Hotel Maurya Patna
Price: ₹800-1200/night
Location: Near Patna Junction
A decent budget option with basic amenities. It is conveniently located near the railway station.
Hotel City Centre
Price: ₹700-1000/night
Location: Gandhi Maidan
A simple and affordable hotel in the heart of Patna. It offers comfortable rooms and essential services.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
Hotel Patliputra Exotica
Price: ₹2000-3000/night
Location: Bailey Road
A comfortable hotel with modern amenities. It features a restaurant, bar, and fitness center.
Hotel Chanakya
Price: ₹1800-2500/night
Location: Near Patna Airport
A well-maintained hotel with good service. It offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location near the airport.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
The Maurya
Price: ₹4000+/night
Location: Frazer Road
Patna's premier luxury hotel with elegant rooms and excellent dining options. It offers a swimming pool, spa, and multiple restaurants.
Lemon Tree Premier Patna
Price: ₹3500+/night
Location: Opposite Patna Museum
A stylish hotel with modern amenities and a central location. It features a rooftop restaurant and a well-equipped fitness center.
Best Time to Visit Patna: Season & Weather Travel Guide
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Patna:
Best Time: October to March
Temperature: 20-30 degrees C
Weather: 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.
Important Note: Expect moderate crowds at popular attractions, especially during festivals. Booking accommodation in advance is recommended.
Shoulder Season: July to September
Temperature: 30-35 degrees C
Weather: 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.
Important Note: Be prepared for potential delays and disruptions due to the weather. Carry rain gear and check weather forecasts regularly.
Avoid: April to June
Temperature: 35-45 degrees C
Weather: The summer months are extremely hot and dry. The heat can be unbearable for outdoor activities.
Why Visit: Avoid visiting during this time due to the intense heat. Sightseeing can be uncomfortable, and heatstroke is a risk.
Important Note: If you must visit, stay indoors during the hottest part of the day. Stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing.
Patna Travel Tips: Money, Safety & Local Advice
💰 Money & Budget
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1000, Mid: ₹2500, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: Widely available
Payment Methods: Cash is preferred for small transactions, cards accepted at major establishments
Bargaining: Expected at local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers
🏥 Health & Safety
Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid tap water.
Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants. Avoid street food from unhygienic vendors.
Common Health Issues: Diarrhea, heatstroke; bring necessary medications and stay hydrated.
📱 Communication
SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. Requires passport and visa.
WiFi Availability: Available at hotels and some cafes
👕 What to Wear
Wear light, breathable clothing, especially during summer. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Chennai to Patna FAQ: Distance, Cost, Time & Best Routes (2026)
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