Patna to Bhagalpur Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Patna to Bhagalpur? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 250km journey. Watch the interactive route animation above to visualize your journey, then explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Patna to Bhagalpur
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 6h 00m | ₹2,388 Fuel & Tolls |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹223 – ₹684 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹356 – ₹2,760 |
How to Travel: Patna to Bhagalpur
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
By Train
Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly
By Bus
Budget travel, multiple stops
lightbulb Our Recommendation
At 250km, both driving (6h 00m) and trains are excellent options. Choose driving for flexibility and scenic stops, or trains for comfort and relaxation.
Before You Leave Patna
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Local Specialties
- local_dining Litti Chokha - a traditional Bihari dish made of wheat and sattu, served with mashed potatoes and eggplant (try at roadside stalls)
- local_dining Sattu Paratha - a flatbread stuffed with sattu (ground gram flour) (try at local restaurants)
- local_dining Khaja - a sweet pastry made of layered dough and soaked in sugar syrup (try at sweet shops)
Bansi Vihar • Frazer Road
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Patna to Bhagalpur route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Arrah
Nalanda
Nalanda is an ancient center of learning located in Bihar, India. It was a renowned Buddhist monastic university that flourished for over 700 years, attracting scholars from across Asia. Today, the site stands as impressive ruins, offering a glimpse into India's rich intellectual and cultural past and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.
attractions Top Attractions
Nalanda Archaeological Site
The Nalanda Archaeological Site encompasses the ruins of the ancient university. It showcases the remnants of classrooms, dormitories, temples, and stupas.
Nalanda Archaeological Museum
The Nalanda Archaeological Museum houses a collection of artifacts unearthed from the ruins. These include sculptures, pottery, seals, and other relics.
Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall
The Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall commemorates the famous Chinese Buddhist monk who studied at Nalanda University. It features a museum and a library dedicated to his life and travels.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Litti Chokha - A traditional Bihari dish made of wheat balls stuffed with roasted gram flour and served with mashed vegetables (try at local dhabas).
Top Attractions in Bhagalpur: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Bhagalpur, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
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Vikramshila Ruins
⏱ 3-4 hours • 💰 ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners) • 🕐 09:00-17:00 dailyVikramshila was one of the two most important centers of learning in India during the Pala Empire. The ruins consist of the remains of a Buddhist monastery and university.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to avoid the midday heat
💡 Insider Tip: Visit the adjacent museum to see artifacts excavated from the site.
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Ajgaibinath Temple
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 06:00-20:00 dailyAjgaibinath Temple is a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is an important pilgrimage site, especially during the month of Shravan.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening for a peaceful experience
💡 Insider Tip: Take a boat ride on the Ganges from Sultanganj for a unique perspective of the temple.
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Kuppa Ghat
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursKuppa Ghat is a sacred site associated with the Manav Dharma Satsang. It is believed that Maharshi Mehi Paramhans meditated here.
Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset for scenic views
💡 Insider Tip: Attend the evening aarti for a mesmerizing experience.
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Mandarin Dam
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 09:00-18:00 dailyThe Mandarin Dam is a scenic reservoir surrounded by hills and forests. It is a popular spot for picnics and nature walks.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to enjoy the sunset
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during the monsoon season for lush greenery.
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Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary
⏱ 4-5 hours • 💰 ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) • 🕐 08:00-17:00 dailyThe Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary is India's only dolphin sanctuary. It protects the endangered Gangetic dolphins.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for better dolphin sighting opportunities
💡 Insider Tip: Carry binoculars for better viewing.
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Champapur Digambar Jain Temple
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 06:00-20:00 dailyChampapur Digambar Jain Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Jains. It is believed to be the birthplace of the 12th Tirthankara, Vasupujya.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime during the day
💡 Insider Tip: Explore the nearby Jain museum to learn more about Jain history and philosophy.
Where to Eat in Bhagalpur: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Bhagalpur
Don't leave Bhagalpur without tasting these local specialties:
- Litti Chokha - A traditional Bihari dish made of wheat balls stuffed with roasted gram flour and served with mashed vegetables (try at street stalls).
- Sattu Paratha - A healthy and filling flatbread made with gram flour (try at local dhabas).
- Khaja - A sweet and crispy pastry (try at sweet shops).
- Dal Puri - Lentil-stuffed fried bread served with potato curry (try at street vendors).
Recommended Restaurants in Bhagalpur
Zaika Restaurant
Indian, Chinese • ₹₹ (₹500-800 for two)
Specialty: Butter Chicken, Biryani
Popular restaurant with a diverse menu. Offers both indoor and outdoor seating.
📍 Central Bhagalpur
Moti Mahal Delux
North Indian • ₹₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two)
Specialty: Tandoori Dishes, Kebabs
Upscale restaurant with elegant ambiance. Known for its flavorful North Indian cuisine.
📍 Bhagalpur Main Road
Basera Restaurant
South Indian • ₹₹ (₹400-700 for two)
Specialty: Dosa, Idli
Authentic South Indian food, quick service.
📍 Near Bus Stand
The Treat Restaurant
Continental • ₹₹ (₹500-800 for two)
Specialty: Pasta, Pizza
Casual dining restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. Serves a variety of continental dishes.
📍 Central Bhagalpur
Where to Stay in Bhagalpur: Accommodation Options
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
Hotel Rajhans International
Price: ₹800-1200/night
Location: Near Railway Station
Simple rooms with basic amenities. Convenient location for transportation.
Hotel City Inn
Price: ₹700-1100/night
Location: Central Bhagalpur
Clean and comfortable rooms with essential facilities. Good value for money.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
Hotel Sai International
Price: ₹1500-2500/night
Location: Near Bus Stand
Well-appointed rooms with modern amenities. Offers a restaurant and conference facilities.
Hotel Ashoka Grand
Price: ₹1800-2800/night
Location: Bhagalpur Main Road
Spacious rooms with contemporary decor. Features a multi-cuisine restaurant and bar.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
Hotel Clarks Inn Bhagalpur
Price: ₹3000+/night
Location: Near Airport Road
Elegant rooms with premium amenities. Offers a swimming pool, spa, and fine-dining restaurant.
The Royal Residency
Price: ₹2800+/night
Location: Central Bhagalpur
Luxurious rooms with personalized service. Features a rooftop restaurant and a fitness center.
Best Time to Travel from Patna to Bhagalpur
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Bhagalpur:
Best Time: October to March
Temperature: 15-30 degrees C
Weather: Pleasant and dry weather. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Why Visit: The weather is perfect for exploring historical sites like Vikramshila, enjoying boat rides on the Ganges, and witnessing the silk production process. Several festivals also occur during this period, adding to the cultural experience.
Important Note: This is peak tourist season, so expect slightly higher prices and more crowds at popular attractions. Booking accommodations and transportation in advance is recommended.
Shoulder Season: July to September
Temperature: 28-35 degrees C
Weather: Monsoon season with moderate to heavy rainfall and high humidity.
Why Visit: The monsoon season brings lush greenery and a refreshing atmosphere. While the rain might disrupt outdoor activities, it offers a unique perspective of the region's natural beauty.
Important Note: Some attractions might have limited accessibility due to heavy rainfall. Be prepared for potential delays in transportation.
Avoid: April to June
Temperature: 35-45 degrees C
Weather: Extremely hot and dry weather with scorching heat waves.
Why Visit: The intense heat makes it uncomfortable to explore the city during the day. Outdoor activities are best avoided.
Important Note: The heat can also affect transportation and accommodation prices might not be significantly lower to justify the discomfort.
Practical Travel Tips for Bhagalpur
💰 Money & Budget
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1000, Mid: ₹2500, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: Available in the city center
Payment Methods: Cash is preferred for small transactions; cards are accepted at larger establishments.
Bargaining: Expected in local markets and with auto-rickshaws.
🏥 Health & Safety
Water: Drink bottled water or boiled water. Avoid tap water.
Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from questionable sources.
Common Health Issues: Heatstroke, dehydration. Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.
📱 Communication
SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio are popular networks. SIM cards available at the airport or local shops.
WiFi Availability: Available at some hotels and restaurants.
👕 What to Wear
Light and comfortable clothing is recommended, especially during summer. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Frequently Asked Questions: Patna to Bhagalpur
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