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.
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.
When to Visit Patna
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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.
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).
Airlines serving Patna
Where to stay in popular areas of Patna
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).
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.
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.