Patna - Discovering India

Travelling to Patna

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Patna, a pretty good destination in India (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Patna and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Patna, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through India, here's everything to know about Patna for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Patna

Patna is the capital city of the state of Bihar, located in the eastern region of India. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history that dates back to 600 BCE. The city is situated on the southern bank of the Ganges River and is known for its rich cultural heritage, religious significance, and culinary delights. Patna has several historical sites such as the ancient city of Pataliputra, the Mahavir Mandir, and the Gandhi Maidan. It is a major hub for education, commerce, and administration in the region and has a vibrant cultural scene with festivals such as Chhath Puja and Bihula-Bishari Puja being celebrated with great enthusiasm.

What to visit in Patna

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Patna, India along with some information about each: 1. Mahavir Mandir: Mahavir Mandir is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman located in the heart of Patna city. It is one of the most visited temples in the city and is known for its grandeur and architecture.
2. Patna Museum: The Patna Museum is a must-visit for those interested in history and culture. It houses a vast collection of artifacts and relics from the state of Bihar, including coins, sculptures, weapons, and even ancient manuscripts.
3. Golghar: Golghar is a monumental structure built by the British in 1786 in order to store grains during a famine. The structure is a popular tourist site and offers stunning views of the city from the top.
4. Nalanda University: Nalanda University is a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated about 90 km from Patna. It was once an ancient center of learning and was considered to be one of the oldest universities in the world.
5. Gandhi Maidan: Gandhi Maidan is a huge public park located in the center of Patna. It is known for its lush greenery and is a popular spot for locals to relax and unwind.
6. Takht Sri Patna Sahib: Takht Sri Patna Sahib is a Sikh gurudwara located in Patna. It is believed to be the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. The gurudwara is a holy site for the Sikh community and attracts thousands of devotees every year.
7. Buddha Smriti Park: Buddha Smriti Park is a peaceful park located near Patna Railway Station. It is home to a beautiful array of plants and flowers and is dedicated to the teachings of Lord Buddha.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Patna has to offer. There is an abundance of history, culture, and nature to explore and discover in this beautiful city.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in India, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Patna

The best time to visit Patna is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and relatively cooler with temperatures ranging from 10-20 °C (50-68 °F). This is particularly a great time to explore the city's architecture, historical sites, and outdoor gardens. However, if you don't mind the heat, you can also visit during the summer months from March to June. The temperatures during this time can be as high as 40 °C (104 °F), but this season is great for festivals and cultural events. It is best to avoid visiting Patna during the monsoon season (July-September) due to heavy rainfall, flooding, and the potential for waterborne diseases.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Patna

To get to Patna, India, you can take a flight to Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport, the main airport serving Patna, from major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore. There are also some international flights available from countries like Nepal and Thailand. Alternatively, you can take a train to Patna Junction railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. If you prefer road travel, you can take a bus or drive to Patna from nearby cities like Varanasi, Bodh Gaya, or Ranchi. Once you arrive in Patna, you can easily get around by hiring a taxi, taking a bus or using app-based ride-hailing services like Uber or Ola.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Patna, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Patna

Here are some typical foods of Patna, India with a short description for each: 1. Litti Chokha: Litti Chokha is a traditional and popular dish of Bihar. It is made by roasting a dough ball made of wheat flour, gram flour and spices on top of burning coal. The roasted ball is served with mashed potato and brinjal, spiced with mustard oil and served with a dollop of ghee (clarified butter).
2. Chaat: Chaat is a popular snack in India and Patna has its own version of chaat that is unique in taste and flavor. It is a combination of boiled potatoes, chickpeas, chopped onions, coriander leaves, mint leaves, sev (crispy noodles), and a variety of chutneys. 3. Dal Puri: Dal Puri is a famous breakfast item in Patna. It is made of wheat flour, stuffed with flavored lentils and spices, and deep-fried in oil. It is served with aloo sabzi (potato curry) and chutney. 4. Khaja: Khaja is a delicate and crispy sweet that originated in Bihar and is popular in Patna. It is made of refined wheat flour, sugar, and ghee. The dough is deep-fried in oil and then dipped in sugar syrup. 5. Tilkut: Tilkut is a sweet delicacy that is made of sesame seeds and jaggery. The mixture is heated, rolled out, and cut into pieces. It is a healthy and nutritious snack. 6. Fish Curry: Fish curry is a popular dish in Patna, as it is close to the Ganges River and has access to fresh fish. The fish is cooked in a spicy onion-tomato gravy with various spices and served with rice. 7. Sattu Paratha: Sattu is a flour made from roasted gram. Sattu Paratha is a roti made from flour kneaded with spices and stuffed with sattu mixed with onion, green chili, coriander leaves, and salt. It is served with chutney, tomato, or onion.
You can find general info about typical foods in India here.

Is Patna an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other cities in India, Patna can be considered a little expensive for tourists. Accommodation prices, food, and transportation costs are comparatively higher than other smaller cities in India. However, it is still an affordable destination for tourists on a budget. It is recommended to do thorough research and book accommodation and transportation in advance to avoid surprise expenses.

Where to find accomodation in Patna

The best areas to find accommodation in Patna for tourists are: 1. Fraser Road area: It is a commercial and central location with many hotels and restaurants. It is close to the city's main attractions like Mahavir Mandir, Gandhi Maidan, and the Patna Museum.
2. Boring Road area: It is a residential area with many hotels, guest houses, and serviced apartments. It is near the famous Buddha Smriti Park and the historic Golghar.
3. Exhibition Road area: It is known as the cultural hub of Patna with many theaters, art galleries, and museums. It has some budget-friendly hotels and guest houses.
4. Kadamkuan area: It is an up-and-coming neighborhood with many mid-range hotels and guest houses. It is near the railway station and the Patna Junction Mall.
Overall, it is advisable to choose a location that is close to the attractions you plan to visit to avoid any inconvenience.
You can check hotel prices at Patna here:
Booking.com

Is Patna a safe destination for tourists?

Patna is generally safe for tourists, but like any other city, it is important to take some precautions to ensure a safe trip. Here are some tips to keep in mind: - Be vigilant in crowded areas and tourist attractions, as they are common targets for pickpockets and thieves.
- Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
- Be cautious when using public transportation, and only use registered taxis or autorickshaws with working meters.
- Avoid getting into conversations with strangers who are offering unsolicited help or services.
- Always carry your passport, ID, and other important documents with you in a safe and secure place.
- Be respectful of local customs and dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites.
By following these tips and exercising common sense, you should be able to enjoy a safe and pleasant trip to Patna.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in India here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Patna.

What type of travelers will enjoy Patna the most?

Patna, India can be enjoyed by various types of travelers, including couples, young people, and families. For couples, Patna offers romantic settings such as the Mahavir Mandir and the Buddha Smriti Park. They can visit museums like the Patna Museum and enjoy the local cuisines at traditional restaurants like Bansi Vihar.
Young people looking for fun can explore nightlife in Patna, including clubs like Xenial and VIP Club. The city also has various shopping malls and street markets, such as the Maurya Lok Complex and Patna Market.
Families can enjoy attractions like the Sanjay Gandhi Botanical Garden and the Patna Planetarium. They can also explore the historical sites in Patna, such as the Golghar and the Patna Sahib Gurudwara.
Overall, Patna has something to offer for everyone.

How to get around Patna

The most common modes of transportation to move around Patna, India are auto-rickshaws, taxis, buses and cycle-rickshaws. Additionally, cab services in Patna and private cars are also available for travelers.

What to see around Patna

There are a few nice places to visit on day trips from Patna, India. Here are some options: 1. Nalanda: This ancient city is about 95 km from Patna and is known for its archaeological ruins. There are several Buddhist temples and monasteries here, including the Nalanda University, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 2. Vaishali: Another ancient city that is about 70 km from Patna, Vaishali is known for its association with the Buddha and the Jain Tirthankaras. There are several Buddhist and Jain monuments here, including the Ashokan Pillar, which is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. 3. Pawapuri: This small town is about 90 km from Patna and is an important pilgrimage site for Jains. It is believed to be the place where Lord Mahavira, the last Jain Tirthankara, attained nirvana. 4. Bodh Gaya: This town is famous for being the place where the Buddha attained enlightenment. It is about 105 km from Patna and is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. 5. Rajgir: This ancient city is about 105 km from Patna and was the capital of the Magadha Empire. It is known for its hot springs and several Buddhist and Jain sites, including the Vishwa Shanti Stupa. 6. Kakolat Waterfall: This is a scenic waterfall located about 140 km from Patna. It is a popular picnic spot and is surrounded by hills and greenery. I hope this helps!
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