About Patna

Patna, the busy capital of Bihar, sprawls out over the south of the Ganges. There is nothing for the traveler along the river itself, and Patna only has a handful of worthwhile sights. Otherwise, it is a chaotic, congested city used as a transport hub or as a base for day trips to attractions in northern Bihar. Patna stretches along the southern bank of the Ganges for about 15 Kms. The 5.7 km long Mahatma Gandhi Setu, one of the longest river bridges in the world, connects Patna with Northern Bihar. Patna, well connected by railway and road & is mainly an administrative and educational center in Bihar. Patna has a few ancient sacred places as also places of tourist interest & rice are the main crop of the district.

Tourist Attractions In Patna : 20

Sort By Experiences :

Historical/Monument

Religious

Museum/Gallery

Library

Ashram/Colister

Wildlife

Planetarium

City Attraction

1: Golghar

Located to the west of the Gandhi Maidan in Patna on the bank of Ganges River, this beehive shaped granary was built for storing grains. The purpose behind the erection of the building was to use it during the times of famine. On the base, it is 125 meters wide and walls of the erection are 3.6 meters thick. A wonderful and picturesque look of Patna is available from the top of the building. It was built by Captain John Garstin, an engineer working with the British East India Company. Its dual spiralling staircases were designed so that workers could climb up one side and down the other. Another interesting trivia about Golghar is that it has never been able to fill to its optimum capacity. While designing the structure, the doors were constructed to open on the inside and hence in the scenario of being fully filled the doors then would not open.

2: Martyrs Memorial

Martyr's Memorial or Shaheed Smarak at Patna is life size bronze statue of seven brave men carrying the Congress flag to hoist on the top of Old Secretariat building during the 1942 Quit India movement. The architectural marvel, by the sculptor Debi Prasad Roy Chaudhary, shows the brave men, one carrying the flag and other six falling to bullets or about to fall, to the bullets of the British police, but still marching ahead with pride and determination and holding the flag in the front. This masterpiece with the historical and national background makes this a special landmark of the city.

3: Har Mandir Takht

Behind a grand gate and sheltered from the mayhem of Patna’s Chowk area lies this important Sikh shrine. Its miniature marble domes, sweeping staircases and fine latticework mark the spot where Guru Gobind Singh, last of the 10 Sikh gurus, was born in 1666. It’s 11 Kms. east of Gandhi Maidan. Takht Shri Harmandir Saheb is one of the most revered Gurdwaras in India. The great Sikh ruler Maharaja Ranjit Singh built this Gurudwara. The Gurudwara was built in commemoration of Guru Govind Singh. Guru Govind Singh had sacrificed his life serving humanity. The Gurudwara is also called ‘Takht Shri Patna Sahib.’

4: Patna Museum

Patna Museum is a major attraction for tourists. Patna museum has a large collection of items found in excavation at Patna and nearby places. The museum houses a wide collection of stone and bronze sculptures and terracotta figures of Hindu and Buddhist artists. These artefacts belong to the ancient and medieval phase of Indian history. The famous terracotta figurine, Didarganj Yakshi, is housed in the Patna museum. Housed in a majestic heritage building, this museum contains a splendid collection of Mauryan and Gupta stone sculptures, some beautiful bronze Buddhist statuary, 2000-year-old terracotta figurines and a gallery of wonderful Rajasthani miniatures. The fabulous collection of Tibetan thangkas (scroll paintings) brought to India by the scholar and traveller Rahul Sankrityayan in the early 20th century is also housed here at Patna museum. Upstairs in a locked gallery you can glimpse a tiny casket believed to contain some of Buddha’s ashes that were retrieved from Vaishali.

5: Pathar Ki Masjid

Patthar Ki Masjid, commonly known as Saif Khan's Mosque, is located on the banks of river Ganga in Patna. This mosque is locally known by various names like Chimmi Ghat Mosque and Sangi Masjid. The son of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, Parvez Shah constructed this mosque during the year 1621, while he was governor. The name Patthar Ki Masjid is derived by the architecture of the mosque, which is made up of stone. Constructed adjacent to Har Mandir Sahib, this mosque is considered as a religious landmark of the city.

6: Sher Shah Suri Masjid

Sher Shah Suri was a celebrated Afghan ruler and a good administrator. He erected this mosque at Patna to commemorate his victory over the Mughal emperor Humanyun. The mosque, built in Afghan architectural style, has a tomb inside the compound which is topped by an octagonal stone slab. The Sher Shah Masjid is considered among best looking mosques in India. This impressive landmark of Patna built in Afghan style of architecture is the biggest mosque in Patna. Inside the mosque is a big dome built specifically to cater huge gathering of masses. Other than the huge dome, the mosque has four small gathering rooms. The mosque was made according to the need of huge gathering to accommodate collective prayer. The specialty of the plan of the mosque is that the domes are so placed that only three of them can be seen at a time from whichever angle one sees.

7: Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library

Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library, which was built in 1900, is situated along the banks of Ganga River. This library is home to a distinct collection of rare Arabic and Persian manuscripts, paintings from Mughal and Rajput Eras. The library is designated as Manuscript Conservation Centre under the National Mission for Manuscripts. The library was actually opened for public use in the year 1891 by Bihar Khan Bahadur Khuda Bakhsh, however at that time it had only 4000 manuscripts out which 1400 were inherited from his father, Maulvi Mohammed Bakhsh. This tiny, but fascinating library-cum-museum, founded in 1900, contains a renowned collection of Arabic and Persian manuscripts, Mughal and Rajput paintings, and even the Quran inscribed in a book just 25mm wide. A significant exhibit is Nadir Shah’s sword-perhaps the very weapon he raised at Delhi’s Sunehri Mosque in 1739 to order the massacre of the city’s residents.

8: Jalan Museum

Located near Agamkuan, Jalan Museum, Popularly known as Quila House is a private museum and visitor needs to call them to take the permission to visit this museum. Jalan Museum is located near the banks of River Ganges. Constructed in the year 1919, the museum reflects the extraordinary effects taken by Diwan Bahadur Radha Krishna Jalan who was behind its construction and the collections. Jalan had acquired a part of Quila Fort, captivated by its location. The building, which was damaged in an earthquake in 1934, was transformed into a beautiful museum. The collections in the museum sum up to nearly 10,000 objects from various parts of the world. Some of the artefacts found here include old sculptures, idols belonging to various periods, furniture and many more. Some of the special collections include palanquin of Tipu Sultan, Humayun’s sword, Chinese idols dating back to 7th century, Venice crystals and jade stones belonging to 200 BC. You need to get permission in advance to gain entry to this private museum.

9: Sadaqat Ashram

Sadaquat Ashram has played an important role in the Independence struggle and the JP movement. Situated in peaceful environment in Digha area of Patna, this place became the home of Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, after retirement. He spent his last days here. During struggle movement, this place was frequented by Mahatma Gandhi, Rajendra Prasad, J.B.Kriplani, Maulana Mazharul Haq and others as a place to start the movement and address the people. At that time, it was a landmark of the city. After Independence, J P Narayan launched his historic movement during 70s from here only. Bihar Vidyapeeth was established here way back in 1921. The Ashram is spread in 20 acres in a lush green campus. It is divided into two parts. Bihar Vidyapeeth is situated in one part, whereas the other part is managed by Bihar Pradesh Congress Committee. After retirement, Rajendra Prasad came to stay here in 1962 and stayed here till his last days. The house in which he lived has been converted into a museum, called Rajendra Smriti Sangrahalaya. It contains many historical things belonging to the first President. Huge paintings also adorn the walls. The museum is recognized by the State Government. In the campus is the Maulana Mazharul Haque library. It is situated in a big building having large reading room and good collection of books. Being the headquarter of Bihar Vidyapeeth for a long time, this serves quite well in the education System. Sadaqat Ashram is very good place to spend some time in a calm environment, understanding the life of Rajendra Prasad and enjoying the serene view. Sadaqat Ashram is situated beside the main road of Digha and it is easily reachable by autos or private Vehicles.

10: Agam Kuan

Agam Kuan is known to be the oldest and the most important archaeological sites in Patna. It is located in the south-west direction of the Gulzarbagh Railway Station in Patna. Agam Kuan also known as the “unfathomable well” dates back to the time of a famous Mauryan Emperor, Ashoka. It is built close to one the famous and ancient temple of Patna, the Shitala Devi Temple. Agam Kuan is approximately 105 ft deep and with a perimeter extending over 20 ft. It's upper half is encased with a 44 ft brick layer and secures it with wooden rings. The structure of the surface is constructed with eight arched windows. According to legends, Emperor Ashoka had this well built for the purpose of torturing people. Popular folklore also states that this was the well, where King Ashoka drowned his 99 brothers in order to get the throne of the Mauryan Empire. The well is also famous for other legends concerning a king named Chand, who threw Sudarshana, a Jain monk, into the well, who was later found floating on the surface, seated on a lotus. At present the well is considered as auspicious for many religious ceremonies like weddings. It is believed to have been bestowed with infinite powers especially among Hindus.

11: Gandhi Setu

Gandhi Setu was built to connect Patna with Hajipur. The bridge also connects north and south Bihar. The bridge is 5450 meters in length and the longest in the world. Gandhi Setu has helped in better traffic management and speedy transportation in the entire region. Mahatma Gandhi Setu stands on forty piers and for better navigational purposes the span arrangement has been done in such a manner that it does not affect the movement of ships and big boats. To accommodate free movement of ships, height has been kept optimum except for the last few spans on the Hajipur side, which covers a length of 305 m. An excellent specimen of better plan and execution, Gandhi Setu has served an example.

12: Padri Ki Haveli

Padri Ki Haveli, also known as St. Mary's Church, was built in 1713, when Roman Catholics entered Bihar district. Therefore, this church is considered as the oldest church in Bihar. This church was re-designed by a Venetian architect Tirreto in 1772. During the mutiny against Britishers in 1857, the church was destroyed over a dispute with British traders by Nawab Mir Kasim, who was then the ruler of Bengal. It is said that amidst this loot the pivotal documents and records, which were kept inside the premises of the church were burnt. The church has a beautifully shaped bell, which has inscriptions on it. This church was the home to Mother Teresa, while she completed learning nursing here. Located around 9.5 Kms. from central Patna at Phulwari Sharif, this church can be easily accessed by taxis and auto rickshaws.

13: Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park

Owing to its huge size, Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park is considered among one of the biggest zoos in India. The park houses more than three hundred species of trees including of orchids, ferns and roses. Each of these species has been kept in different houses and even their names have been given accordingly. The presence of the rare white tiger makes Sanjay Gandhi Biological park unique. Other than white tiger, the park has single male zebra, rhino of single horn, hippopotamus, and many cubs and tigers. There are some 70 species of animals. Some rare species of animals such as clouded leopard, crocodile, Himalayan bear, lion tailed macaque, leopard cat, hog deer, and white peacock, etc. have been kept here. The total population of animals is around 800. The park is excellent exhibition of wildlife. Besides exploring the flora and fauna at Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, one can also listen to classical music. The park is polythene free zone and special care is taken to make environment free of pollution and pollutant. This park also has an Aquarium and a Snake House. The aquarium has about 35 species of fishes. The park has also preserved five rare species of snakes. The park has more than ten rhinos which is one third of total rhinos in India. Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park has an exchange pact with Santiago Zoo under which they supplied these rhinos. Rhinos are the major attraction of the park and tourists never miss to see these rhinos.

14: Modern Planetarium

Modern Planetarium also known as Patna Planetarium is considered as one of the largest planetariums in Asia and attracts thousands of domestic and international tourists each year. Popularly known as Indira Gandhi Planetarium, this planetarium opened for the public on 1 April 1993. The planetarium hosts various exhibitions and shows in the context of astronomy. Indira Gandhi Planetarium is located in Patna's Indira Gandhi Science Complex. It is named after senior Indian National Congress leader and former Prime Minister of India Indira Gandhi. The Patna Planetarium is one of the largest planetariums in Asia. It attracts a large number of domestic as well as foreign tourists. The planetarium has regular film shows on subjects related to astronomy. It also holds exhibitions, which attracts lots of visitors. Patna Planetarium is located on Bailey Road near Income Tax Golambar in Patna. It also holds exhibitions, which attracts number of visitors. This planetarium is located 10 km away from private bus stand, making it easily accessible for International as well as domestic tourists.

15: Kumrahar

Kumhrar, also pronounced as Kumrahar, is historic city of Patliputra, depicting the remains of the Mauryan Empire from 600 BC to 600 AD. This ancient city is situated about 5 km from Patna Railway Station on the Kankarbagh Road. Over the past years, many excavations have discovered various structures from the Mauryan times. During the year 1912 to 1915, archaeologists unearthed the Assembly hall of 80 pillars, which can be seen at the site. Other ruins such as Anand Bihar, which was a Buddhist brick monastery, Arogya Vihar, Durakhi Devi Temple can also be seen. The Assembly hall of 80 pillars, also known as the parliament is considered as beautiful example to the intricate architecture of Mauryan Era. The site also contains the ruins of Arogya Vihar that were said to run by Dhanvantri, who was a famous physician and is considered as the source of Ayurveda. The magnum history of the Magadh Empire can be experienced and seen in the remains by the tourist travelling to Patna.

16: Nalanda

Nalanda is one of the most important tourist destinations that attract people from all parts of the world. Nalanda ranks amongst the first few residential universities in the world. It was established in 5th century AD and during its prime time, it had scholars and students visiting from various parts of the world including Korea, Turkey, Indonesia, China and Persia. Excavations have brought to light some of the marvellous structures here. Many temples and monasteries were built here. One of the temples offers spectacular view of the area around. Statues of Buddha in various sizes are seen here. Famous Chinese traveller Hieun Tsang had stayed in Nalanda during 7th century. He has given a detailed account of the university and its architecture. A construction dedicated to Hieun Tsang is seen here.

17: Maner Sharif

Maner Sharif is a medieval site and a notified area, which is located about 30 km towards the west of Patna city on the National highway 30. It is famous historic and spiritual site of Bihar and is home to two famous tombs, namely Makhdoom Yahya Maneri and Shah Daulat. Makhdoom Yahya Maneri is also called as the Bari Dargah, while Shah Daulat is also called as the Chhoti Dargah. This is the place where Makhdoom died in 1608, after which Ibrahim Khan who was his follower and governor of Bihar, built his mausoleum in 1616. The building of Maner Sharif has intricate scriptures on its dome from the holy book of Quran.

18: Bodh Gaya

Located 125 kilometres away, Bodh Gaya is a major tourist attraction near Patna. Bodh Gaya was the place where Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment under the peepal tree. Known as the Bodhi Tree, it is one of the most sacred sites for Buddhists across the world. The Bodhi tree is enshrined in a temple called Bodhi Temple. A huge statue of Lord Buddha inside the temple is another major tourist attraction at Bodh Gaya. Bodh Gaya is a part of Buddhist Circuit that connects all the places associated with Buddha and Buddhism.

19: Rajgir

Rajgir holds great importance for Buddhists and Jains. Situated amongst lush green hills and at a distance of 102 Kms. from Patna, Rajgir was the ancient capital of the Magadha Empire before Lord Buddha. Major tourist attractions at Rajgir are Gridhakuta, Pipphali House, Venuvana, Tapodarama and Saptaparni cave.

20: Vaishali

Vaishali looked like an ordinary place covered with lush green mango and banana trees, but excavations revealed its rich and impressive historical past. They tell us that King Vishal ruled once here with his might and power. It is this place, which remained once the center for trade and industry. Lord Buddha also visited this place occasionally. One can witness on the outskirts of Vaishali, the presence of grand double storied Buddhist monastery. Buddha quite often provided lectures and discourses. Vaishali is said to be the first republic in human history. Vaishali had the concept of republican government much before the Greeks. Vaishali is located at a distance of 55 kilometres from the capital city of Patna. Lord Buddha stayed here for quite some time during his search of truth. Vaishali is also associated with Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara.

How To Reach Patna

By Road: - Patna is well connected with all the major cities of Bihar and the rest of India. An excellent road network links Patna to major cities and tourist destinations within Bihar. Intra-city road transportation is also good in Patna

.
By Air: - Patna has regular flights from different cities of India. Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata are linked with Patna with regular flights. Several Airlines including Air India and Jet Airways serve the city with regular flights.

By Rail: - Patna is a major junction of Indian railway and is linked with all the major and minor cities of India via railway network. Patna has many regular trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bangalore and Chennai.

Local Transport: - The local transport of Patna is easily available during the day time, however during late night there may be problem. There are plenty of options to move around the city and visit its various places at an affordable price. The fare is relatively low. The various modes of transportation in the city are Auto rickshaws, Cycle rickshaws, Cabs etc.

Bus Services: - City buses ply between the important destinations. These are mid size buses having seats for 25-30 people.

Traditional Food (Regional cusine of Patna)

Patna, a vibrant city in Bihar, India, is a cultural hub and a haven for history enthusiasts. Here's a guide to the delectable cuisine and notable dining spots in Patna:

1. Litti Chokha:

- Specialty: Patna is renowned for its Litti Chokha, a traditional Bihari dish consisting of wheat balls (litti) served with mashed spiced vegetables (chokha).

- Where to Try: Visit local eateries and roadside stalls for an authentic taste of Litti Chokha.

2. Bihari Kebabs:

- Specialty: Enjoy the succulent and flavorful Bihari kebabs, often made with minced meat and aromatic spices.

- Where to Try: Explore local kebab joints and popular eateries for a taste of authentic Bihari kebabs.

3. Sattu Paratha:

- Specialty: Sattu Paratha, a flatbread filled with roasted gram flour, is a popular and nutritious choice in Patna.

- Where to Try: Look for local breakfast spots and dhabas for a satisfying Sattu Paratha experience.

4. Khaja:

- Specialty: Khaja, a sweet layered pastry, is a famous dessert in Patna, enjoyed for its crispiness and sweetness.

- Where to Try: Visit local sweet shops and bakeries for the traditional Khaja.

5. Dal Puri:

- Specialty: Dal Puri, deep-fried bread filled with spiced lentils, is a flavorful snack and breakfast item in Patna.

- Where to Try: Street vendors and local eateries are known for serving delicious Dal Puri.

6. Bihari Thali:

- Specialty: Dive into a wholesome Bihari Thali, featuring a variety of regional dishes like litti, chokha, sattu, and more.

- Where to Try: Traditional Bihari restaurants offer a complete Bihari Thali experience.

7. Thekua:

- Specialty: Thekua, a sweet snack made with wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee, is a popular festive treat in Patna.

- Where to Try: Look for local sweet shops and markets for Thekua.

8. Chana Ghugni:

- Specialty: Chana Ghugni, a spicy and tangy chickpea curry, is a common street food delight in Patna.

- Where to Try: Street vendors and small eateries often serve flavorful Chana Ghugni.

9. Patna Kalaadi:

- Specialty: Patna Kalaadi, a type of local cheese, is used in various dishes and snacks in Patna.

- Where to Try: Explore local markets and dairies for authentic Patna Kalaadi.

10. Bihari Chaat:

- Specialty: Sample the unique flavors of Bihari Chaat, a delightful mix of spiced ingredients, chutneys, and crunchy elements.

- Where to Try: Street food stalls and chaat corners offer Bihari-style chaat.

Patna's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Bihari flavors, offering a variety of dishes that showcase the region's rich culinary heritage.

Weather & Quick Info Of Patna

Patna is a renowned tourist destination, ideal for history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and those seeking vibrant experiences.

The best months to visit Patna are from October to February.

The ideal time required to explore Patna is 1-2 days.

Patna has many nearby tourist destinations like Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, Vaishali, and many more.

Best Hotels In Patna

Space And Spice

Price: ₹ 1800.00

Updated 6 Jan 2023

Hotel

2nd Floor,48,kavi Raman Path, Nageshwar Colony, Near Dr. Uday Narain Hospital, Patna, Bihar, Indi Star Rating:
Hotel Detail

Share / View Experiences :
Amenities: Parking , Wifi, Restaurant or Fine Dine Area, Room Service

published on 2023-01-06

Hotel Magadh

Price: ₹ 1100.00

Updated 6 Jan 2023

Hotel

station Road, Rajendrapath, Patna 800001, Bihar, India
Star Rating:
Hotel Detail

Share / View Experiences :
Amenities: Currency Exchange, Wifi, Laundry Facilities

published on 2023-01-06

Best Travel Agents In Patna

Jain Tirthankara Tour

Price: Available on Enquiry

Updated 6 Dec 2017

Religious

Experience Type

Organizer : Visit Bihar
Destinations:
View Detail
Inclusions:
Share / View Experiences :

Published on: 2017-12-06 10:56:11

Rajgir Tour

Price: ₹ 3000/person