Introduction
What to do
Where to eat
When to visit
How to get there
Where to stay
Hiring a car
Local costs

Patna travel guide

Patna Tourism | Patna Guide

You're Going to Love Patna

Famous for its exquisite rice, Bihar's capital city buzzes with energy. Long a center of the Magadha Kingdom, Patna boasts historic places, great food, and day trips to entertain anyone who visits.

Article

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Patna

1. Ancient Historic Sites

In ancient times, Patna was known as Pataliputra, and it was one of the world's largest cities. Nowadays, you can tour the city's ruins and see artifacts from its palaces in the excellent Patna Museum.

2. Engaging Museums and Artistic Attractions

There are plenty of other museums to visit too, not least the Bihar Museum, which has a superb sculpture collection, and the Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library with its ancient Persian manuscripts.

3. Sample Some Delicious Specialties from Bihar

Try Bihari delicacies like kadhi bari dumplings in hot sauce, khichdi vegetable curries, or distinctive mutton kebabs.

4. Shop for Artistic Souvenirs and Fabrics

Places like Ajanta are treasure troves of traditional Madhubani art, while you'll also find colorful Sujini quilts and delicately lacquered boxes.

5. There Are Some Superb Day Trips from Patna

When you stay in Patna you can easily reach Bodh Gaya - the famous spot where Buddha achieved enlightenment, as well as the gardens of Rajgir, and the Nepali border isn't far away either.

1. Ancient Historic Sites

In ancient times, Patna was known as Pataliputra, and it was one of the world's largest cities. Nowadays, you can tour the city's ruins and see artifacts from its palaces in the excellent Patna Museum.

2. Engaging Museums and Artistic Attractions

There are plenty of other museums to visit too, not least the Bihar Museum, which has a superb sculpture collection, and the Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library with its ancient Persian manuscripts.

3. Sample Some Delicious Specialties from Bihar

Try Bihari delicacies like kadhi bari dumplings in hot sauce, khichdi vegetable curries, or distinctive mutton kebabs.

4. Shop for Artistic Souvenirs and Fabrics

Places like Ajanta are treasure troves of traditional Madhubani art, while you'll also find colorful Sujini quilts and delicately lacquered boxes.

5. There Are Some Superb Day Trips from Patna

When you stay in Patna you can easily reach Bodh Gaya - the famous spot where Buddha achieved enlightenment, as well as the gardens of Rajgir, and the Nepali border isn't far away either.

What to do in Patna

1. Discover Ancient Pataliputra

Located approximately 5 kilometers from Patna, Kumrahar provides a deep and detailed insight into the lively history of India and bears witness to the rich culture of ancient Pataliputra. Currently, this site is filled with the Mauryan palace archaeological remains. The Mauryan pillared hall was brought to light in an early excavation that took place between 1912-1915. View ancient utensils, copper coins, stone and terracotta beads, ornaments and more.

2. Encounter Unique Art

Located right in the heart of the city center, the Patna Museum is filled with 45,000 unique and historic artifacts. It was built in the year 1917 and is recognized as the city's oldest museum. The museum's construction features notable styles of architecture in a design by renowned architects Mughal and Rajput. All the thousands of artifacts cannot be displayed due to space constraints. The museum's floors are divided into various galleries, including the stone sculpture, natural history, and Indian stone art galleries. Let your mind wander into the past with the magnificent displays, sculptures, and paintings within the Patna Museum.

3. Climb Atop Unmatched Beauty

Featuring a close resemblance to the Stupa style of architecture, Golghar is indeed a one-of-a-kind structure. It was built by a skilled architect by the name of Captain John Garstin to act as a granary. It is 125 meters wide, 29 meters high and the wall at the base is a stupendous 3.6 meters thick due to the pillar-less construction. Golghar held the title of the tallest building in its day. To get to the top of the granary, you have to ascend the 'endless' flight of steps. The view from the top of the town and the majestic Ganges is delightful.

4. Travel Back In Time

Situated strategically next to the banks of the River Ganges, the Jalan Museum was built in 1919. Established by the businessman and art collector Diwan Bahadur Radha Krishna Jalan, it was constructed in an English and Dutch style of architecture. Before embarking on its construction, Jalan acquired a section of the Quila Fort to house his collection. Today that collection includes furniture, sculptures, stone idols, glass, terracotta, porcelain and ivory artifacts. As the Jalan Museum is privately owned, it is necessary to make a booking prior to your visit.

5. Mingle With Nature

Otherwise known as Patna Zoo, the Sanjay Gandhi Botanical Garden covers a total of 153 acres, making it one of the country's biggest zoos. It was founded in 1969 and serves as home to over 110 wild animal species, a total of approximately 800 animals in all, including tigers, lions, bears, rhinos, peacocks and many more. There are also over 300 species of trees, herbs, and other plants. This is a family-friendly attraction complete with a miniature railway and boating for the children.

1. Discover Ancient Pataliputra

Located approximately 5 kilometers from Patna, Kumrahar provides a deep and detailed insight into the lively history of India and bears witness to the rich culture of ancient Pataliputra. Currently, this site is filled with the Mauryan palace archaeological remains. The Mauryan pillared hall was brought to light in an early excavation that took place between 1912-1915. View ancient utensils, copper coins, stone and terracotta beads, ornaments and more.

2. Encounter Unique Art

Located right in the heart of the city center, the Patna Museum is filled with 45,000 unique and historic artifacts. It was built in the year 1917 and is recognized as the city's oldest museum. The museum's construction features notable styles of architecture in a design by renowned architects Mughal and Rajput. All the thousands of artifacts cannot be displayed due to space constraints. The museum's floors are divided into various galleries, including the stone sculpture, natural history, and Indian stone art galleries. Let your mind wander into the past with the magnificent displays, sculptures, and paintings within the Patna Museum.

3. Climb Atop Unmatched Beauty

Featuring a close resemblance to the Stupa style of architecture, Golghar is indeed a one-of-a-kind structure. It was built by a skilled architect by the name of Captain John Garstin to act as a granary. It is 125 meters wide, 29 meters high and the wall at the base is a stupendous 3.6 meters thick due to the pillar-less construction. Golghar held the title of the tallest building in its day. To get to the top of the granary, you have to ascend the 'endless' flight of steps. The view from the top of the town and the majestic Ganges is delightful.

4. Travel Back In Time

Situated strategically next to the banks of the River Ganges, the Jalan Museum was built in 1919. Established by the businessman and art collector Diwan Bahadur Radha Krishna Jalan, it was constructed in an English and Dutch style of architecture. Before embarking on its construction, Jalan acquired a section of the Quila Fort to house his collection. Today that collection includes furniture, sculptures, stone idols, glass, terracotta, porcelain and ivory artifacts. As the Jalan Museum is privately owned, it is necessary to make a booking prior to your visit.

5. Mingle With Nature

Otherwise known as Patna Zoo, the Sanjay Gandhi Botanical Garden covers a total of 153 acres, making it one of the country's biggest zoos. It was founded in 1969 and serves as home to over 110 wild animal species, a total of approximately 800 animals in all, including tigers, lions, bears, rhinos, peacocks and many more. There are also over 300 species of trees, herbs, and other plants. This is a family-friendly attraction complete with a miniature railway and boating for the children.

1. Discover Ancient Pataliputra

Located approximately 5 kilometers from Patna, Kumrahar provides a deep and detailed insight into the lively history of India and bears witness to the rich culture of ancient Pataliputra. Currently, this site is filled with the Mauryan palace archaeological remains. The Mauryan pillared hall was brought to light in an early excavation that took place between 1912-1915. View ancient utensils, copper coins, stone and terracotta beads, ornaments and more.

2. Encounter Unique Art

Located right in the heart of the city center, the Patna Museum is filled with 45,000 unique and historic artifacts. It was built in the year 1917 and is recognized as the city's oldest museum. The museum's construction features notable styles of architecture in a design by renowned architects Mughal and Rajput. All the thousands of artifacts cannot be displayed due to space constraints. The museum's floors are divided into various galleries, including the stone sculpture, natural history, and Indian stone art galleries. Let your mind wander into the past with the magnificent displays, sculptures, and paintings within the Patna Museum.

3. Climb Atop Unmatched Beauty

Featuring a close resemblance to the Stupa style of architecture, Golghar is indeed a one-of-a-kind structure. It was built by a skilled architect by the name of Captain John Garstin to act as a granary. It is 125 meters wide, 29 meters high and the wall at the base is a stupendous 3.6 meters thick due to the pillar-less construction. Golghar held the title of the tallest building in its day. To get to the top of the granary, you have to ascend the 'endless' flight of steps. The view from the top of the town and the majestic Ganges is delightful.

4. Travel Back In Time

Situated strategically next to the banks of the River Ganges, the Jalan Museum was built in 1919. Established by the businessman and art collector Diwan Bahadur Radha Krishna Jalan, it was constructed in an English and Dutch style of architecture. Before embarking on its construction, Jalan acquired a section of the Quila Fort to house his collection. Today that collection includes furniture, sculptures, stone idols, glass, terracotta, porcelain and ivory artifacts. As the Jalan Museum is privately owned, it is necessary to make a booking prior to your visit.

5. Mingle With Nature

Otherwise known as Patna Zoo, the Sanjay Gandhi Botanical Garden covers a total of 153 acres, making it one of the country's biggest zoos. It was founded in 1969 and serves as home to over 110 wild animal species, a total of approximately 800 animals in all, including tigers, lions, bears, rhinos, peacocks and many more. There are also over 300 species of trees, herbs, and other plants. This is a family-friendly attraction complete with a miniature railway and boating for the children.

Where to Eat in Patna

If you want to try authentic bihari kebabs or curries, try Pind Balluchi, Takshila, or Baba Hotel. And don't miss the sambar (vegetable curry) at Bansi Vihar either. Expect cheap, high-quality food, with meals costing around ₹150-200.

When to visit Patna

Patna in February
Estimated hotel price
S$ 15
1 night at 3-star hotel
Patna in February
Estimated hotel price
S$ 15
1 night at 3-star hotel

Generally, the best time to visit is between October and February, when the weather isn't too hot, and you won't be drenched by the monsoon.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Patna

Plane

Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Airport (PAT) has links to major international hubs like Delhi and Mumbai. A pre-booked taxi into town will cost around ₹400.

Train

Patna Junction is connected to all major northern Indian cities (though it's a 17-hour journey from New Delhi).

Car

From Delhi, take the Expressway as far as Lucknow, take highway 30 to Raebareli, then highway 31 all the way to Patna.

Bus

Seven different companies run bus services from Delhi to Patna, so take your pick (but it's advisable to choose an air-conditioned option).

Plane

Lok Nayak Jayaprakash Airport (PAT) has links to major international hubs like Delhi and Mumbai. A pre-booked taxi into town will cost around ₹400.

Train

Patna Junction is connected to all major northern Indian cities (though it's a 17-hour journey from New Delhi).

Car

From Delhi, take the Expressway as far as Lucknow, take highway 30 to Raebareli, then highway 31 all the way to Patna.

Bus

Seven different companies run bus services from Delhi to Patna, so take your pick (but it's advisable to choose an air-conditioned option).

Airports near Patna

PATPatna
DBRDarbhanga
GAYGaya

Airlines serving Patna

Air France
Good (1,468 reviews)
Malaysia Airlines
Good (266 reviews)
Thai Airways
Good (336 reviews)
Air India
Okay (2,925 reviews)
Qantas Airways
Good (876 reviews)
Virgin Atlantic
Good (654 reviews)
SriLankan Airlines
Good (74 reviews)
Thai AirAsia
Good (219 reviews)
Air India Express
Okay (9 reviews)
IndiGo
Good (477 reviews)
SpiceJet
Okay (88 reviews)
Bhutan Airlines
Drukair
Show more
Find flights to Patna

Where to stay in Patna

Maurya Lok - just north of the city center, Maurya Lok is the place to head to find craft souvenirs (and much more besides).

Popular Neighborhoods in Patna

Fraser Road Area - another central neighborhood, Fraser Road is home to the Buddha Smriti Museum, as well as some great eateries like Moti Mahal Delux.

Mali Tola - for some open space and fresh air, head to Mali Tola, which is home to the excellent Patna Golf Club and the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park.

Fraser Road Area - another central neighborhood, Fraser Road is home to the Buddha Smriti Museum, as well as some great eateries like Moti Mahal Delux.
Mali Tola - for some open space and fresh air, head to Mali Tola, which is home to the excellent Patna Golf Club and the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park.

Where to stay in popular areas of Patna

Most booked hotels in Patna

See all
Maurya Patna Hotel
4 stars
Good (7, Good reviews)
S$ 209+
View
Hotel Gargee Grand
4 stars
Good (6.9, Good reviews)
S$ 96+
View

How to Get Around Patna

Public Transportation

BSTDC runs buses across Patna, including to Bodh Gaya. Fares start at ₹60.

Taxi

Taxi rates vary depending on vehicle type, but the cheapest official rate is around ₹15 per mile.

Car

Car rental options in Patna include Car4Hires and Akbar Travels, and you can find deals for ₹400 per day (or book a driver for ₹950).

Public Transportation

BSTDC runs buses across Patna, including to Bodh Gaya. Fares start at ₹60.

Taxi

Taxi rates vary depending on vehicle type, but the cheapest official rate is around ₹15 per mile.

Car

Car rental options in Patna include Car4Hires and Akbar Travels, and you can find deals for ₹400 per day (or book a driver for ₹950).

The Cost of Living in Patna

Shopping Streets

Central Patna is the place to shop for gifts, and most of the stores are clustered around Maurya Lok, but there are malls as well, like P&M Mall.

Groceries and Other

Supermarkets include 9 to 9 and Daily Needs, where 12 eggs will cost you approximately ₹60.

Cheap meal
S$ 2.99
A pair of jeans
S$ 39.68
Single public transport ticket
S$ 0.27
Cappuccino
S$ 1.85

Patna Travel Guide - View the KAYAK Patna city guide for the best Patna travel tips. To help you organise your Patna trip ideas, this Patna visitors guide provides travel information and trip tips about how to get there, where to stay, what to do, where to eat and more.