Varanasi to Patna Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Varanasi to Patna? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 255km 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: Varanasi to Patna
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 5h 30m | ₹2,435 Fuel & Tolls |
| flight Flight | 0h 55m | ₹893 - ₹1,785 |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹227 – ₹695 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹363 – ₹2,815 |
How to Travel: Varanasi to Patna
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
By Flight
Speed, long distances, business travel
By Train
Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly
By Bus
Budget travel, multiple stops
lightbulb Our Recommendation
At 255km, both driving (5h 30m) and trains are excellent options. Choose driving for flexibility and scenic stops, or trains for comfort and relaxation.
Local Food Guide Coming Soon
We're working on adding local food recommendations for Varanasi. In the meantime, explore local restaurants and street food when you arrive!
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Varanasi to Patna route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Arrah
Sarnath
Sarnath is a significant Buddhist site located near Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. It is where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma after his enlightenment, delivering his first sermon.
attractions Top Attractions
Dhamek Stupa
The Dhamek Stupa is a massive stone structure believed to mark the spot where Buddha delivered his first sermon to his five disciples. It is the most prominent structure in Sarnath and a major pilgrimage site.
Sarnath Archaeological Museum
The Sarnath Archaeological Museum houses a rich collection of Buddhist artifacts excavated from the Sarnath site. It includes sculptures, relics, and inscriptions dating back to the 3rd century BC.
Mulagandha Kuti Vihara
The Mulagandha Kuti Vihara is a modern Buddhist temple built by the Mahabodhi Society. It houses beautiful frescoes depicting the life of Buddha and a golden statue of Buddha.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Baigan Bharta - A smoky eggplant dish, best tried at local dhabas.
Mirzapur
Mirzapur, a city in Uttar Pradesh, is known for its carpet weaving industry and proximity to the Vindhyachal temple. Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, it offers a blend of cultural and natural attractions.
attractions Top Attractions
Vindhyavasini Temple
One of the most important Shaktipeeths in India, dedicated to Goddess Vindhyavasini. It is believed that the goddess fulfills the wishes of her devotees.
Ashtabhuja Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Ashtabhuja, another form of Durga. The temple is situated on a hill, offering scenic views of the surrounding area.
Kali Koh Temple
A cave temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. The idol is housed inside a natural cave formation.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Baati Chokha - A traditional dish made of wheat balls baked in cow dung fire, served with mashed potatoes and eggplant (try at local dhabas)
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: Accommodation Options
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 Travel from Varanasi to Patna
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.
Practical Travel Tips for Patna
💰 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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Varanasi to Patna
Related Routes from Varanasi
Planning to explore more destinations? Check out these popular routes from Varanasi:
Other Routes to Patna
Traveling to Patna from a different city? Explore these alternative routes:
Explore More of India
Discover comprehensive travel guides, hidden gems, and local insights for cities across India. Plan your perfect journey with our detailed destination guides.