Capital city of Bihar, Patna is a land that is always bustling. This ancient city is sitting on the southern bank of the mighty Ganges river. Offering fine alchemy of ancient and contemporary worlds, Patna is a city that is filled to the brim with crowds. This town is certainly an acquired taste.
Patna is often considered as just the transportation hub of the country. In reality, it’s a lot more than that. From strolling around a Buddhist Park to witnessing the glittering cityscapes, from embracing a sunset to getting educated about the astronomical sciences, there are plenty of things to do in Patna. Here is a list of all the hand-picked experiences that are a must-try in Bihar’s capital city.
Top 11 Things To Do In Patna
Patna offers a plethora of experiences and activities that make a trip to Bihar worthwhile. Here is a list of all the top things to do in Patna that should not be missed!
- Golghar: Witness The Picturesque Cityscape
- Gurudwara Patna Sahib: Embrace The Calmness
- Pataliputra: Marvel At The Relic
- Ganga River: Watch The Sunset While Boating
- Buddha Smriti Park: Connect With Your Spiritual Being
- Patna Planetarium: Enjoy A Sky Show
- Mahatma Gandhi Setu: Go For A Ride
- Patna Museum: Revisit The History
- Mahatma Gandhi Statue: Tallest Statue
- Agam Kuan: Historical Marvel
- Nalanda University: Travel Into The Past
1. Golghar: Witness The Picturesque Cityscape
Golghar is the finest example of local craftsmanship. It was built under the command of Captain John Gartin in the year 1786 to be used as a granary. Golghar is nestled amidst the pristine river on one side, lush greens on one, and the entire city ahead of it.
Entry to this stupendously constructed granary might be restricted, however, the public is still permitted to make use of the spiral staircase that leads one up the dome-shaped building. The panoramic views of the surroundings have led to visiting Golghar among the best things to do in Patna.
Location: Ashok Rajpath, Patna, Bihar
Timings: 9:30 am to 6 pm
Entry Charges: NIL
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2. Gurudwara Patna Sahib: Embrace The Calmness
The bright white structure of this Gurudwara is certainly a treat. Also named as Takht Sri Patna Sahib, this place of worship was constructed under the commands of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Gurudwara Patna Sahib exudes peace from every nook and visiting this religious spot is, hence, amongst the most heartwarming things to do in Patna, Bihar.
This Gurudwara is devoted to the 10th Guru of Sikhism namely Guru Gobind Singh Ji. It is home to around five takhts or the sacred thrones which are considered holy in the religion.
Location: Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji, Patna Sahib, Patna, Bihar
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Charges: NIL
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3. Pataliputra: Marvel At The Relic
Being an ancient city, one can imagine the number of relics and timeless ruins that cover the city. One such iconic landmark from the golden days is Pataliputra. Sitting in Kumhrar, around 5km on the outskirts of the city, this monumental structure is the example of architecture from the Mauryan Empire.
Falling among the best things to do in Patna, India for history aficionados, exploring the 80 pillars dating back to the years 1912 to 1915 is truly remarkable. Pataliputra Is a complete contrast from the modern-day city of Patna.
Location: Patna, Bihar
Timings: NA
Entry Charges: NA
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4. Ganga River: Watch The Sunset While Boating
Ganga River is perhaps the holiest and most serene water body in Patna. The gentle flows of water, panoramic views of lush greens on the shores on the side, and the cityscapes on the other make an experience one of its kind. Among the top fun things to do in Patna with friends, families, or partners is taking a ride on the boat along the pristine waters of the Ganga.
Patna is a city that is filled to the brim with crowds. This river gives an opportunity to escape the busy streets and spend some time in solitude. Make sure you visit during the late evenings, as dusk is on its verge.
Location: Patna, Bihar
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Charges: NA
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5. Buddha Smriti Park: Connect With Your Spiritual Being
Buddha Smriti Park acts as a magnet to attract tourists. With an essence of spirituality spread all around, this park blankets a charcoal stupa namely Patliputra Karuna Stupa. For those who seek solace and serenity, this is the place to be at.
Inaugurated by the 14th Dalai Lama, Buddha Smriti Park has plenty to offer. Apart from the charcoal stupa, one can also find saplings from the Bodhi Tree in Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura, and Bodhgaya. The Buddhist Museum, relaxing meditation hall, and a well-stocked library further makes this experience in Patna complete.
Location: Fraser Road, Near Patna Railway Station Patna Junction, Bihar
Timings: 9 am to 7 pm (Closed on Mondays)
Entry Charges: INR 20 for Park | INR 40 for Museum
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6. Patna Planetarium: Enjoy A Sky Show
Patna is a city that offers an absolute vacation. If you decided to take a vacation to the capital city with your family and the little ones, the Planetarium of the city should be your first stop. Patna Planetarium is among Asia’s oldest ones.
Those who are interested in Astronomy will thoroughly enjoy their visit. This Planetarium is pretty spacious and hosts several sky-related films for every age. The contemporary and state-of-the-art equipment, technology, and projections make the experience worth it.
Location: Adalat Ganj, Kidwaipuri, Patna, Bihar
Timings: 11 am to 5:30 pm
Entry Charges: INR 50 per person
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7. Mahatma Gandhi Setu: Go For A Ride
India is home to some remarkable architectural marvels that every citizen is proud of. One such marvel is the Mahatma Gandhi Setu. It is among the longest bridges in the entire world that run 5.7 kilometers from Patna to Hajipur.
While on a drive along the bridge, one can witness some outstanding views of the River Ganga which is among the exciting things to do in Patna. Mahatma Gandhi Setu has set records and has earned itself the title of being an iconic landmark of the city. Do witness the sunset when crossing this bridge!
Location: Patna, Bihar
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Charges: NIL
8. Patna Museum: Revisit The History
One of the top things to do in Patna is to take a walk into the history of this land and the best way to do that is to visit the Patna museum. The museum houses an expansive collection of rare artefacts, paintings, relics, instruments, and sculptures. It is also believed that the museum houses a holy casket which contains ashes of Lord Buddha, and items that were excavated from Stupa at Vaishali. Findings from the Mohenjo Daro and Harappa civilizations are also housed in this museum. One of the must see treasure here is the 53ft tall fossilised tree that was discovered in the year 1927.
Location: Madiri kat pur musuam k bagl m, Patna, Bihar
Timings: 10.30 am to 4.30 pm
Entry Charges: INR 15 (Indians); INR 250 (Foreigners)
9. Mahatma Gandhi Statue: Tallest Statue
Patna is famous for being the centre point of various historical events, and the Gandhi Maidan is a prime example of that fact. This maidan is one of the most famous historical spots and is also a home to a statue of Mahatma Gandhi that is the tallest in the world. It is almost 70ft in height and is made in bronze. Sardar Patel, Indira Gandhi, and Maulana Azad visited this park frequently at the time of the Independence struggle. Now this park serves as a playground for children and a spot for exhibitions and cultural events.
Location: Patna, Bihar
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Charges: NA
10. Agam Kuan: Historical Marvel
Agam Kuan is shrouded in mystery, owing to the fact that it is known as one of the oldest archaeological sites in Patna. It is believed that the Kuan was built during the Mauryan period and was built by Ashoka. The kuan is 105ft deep and has a perimeter of 20 ft and has eight arched windows. It is believed that the well was used as toruture chamber. There are many stories that are associated with the well, but today this well is considered very auspicious among Hindus.
Location: Patna, Bihar
Timings: 8 am to 9 pm
Entry Charges: NA
11. Nalanda University: Travel Into The Past
Nalanda University is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a trip to Patna is incomplete if you don’t visit this site. The Nalanda University – an ancient university and also a buddhist learning centre is considered as the longest running university in India’s history. The university dates back to the 5th Century CE (the Gupta period). Although in ruins, the red brick walls and the stupas tell the tales of the glorious history of Nalanda University, Patna and Bihar. Visiting this glorious ruins is one of the top things to do in Patna.
Location: Rajgir, Bihar
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
Entry Charges: INR 15 (Indians); INR 200 (Foreigners)
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Overflowing with the crowds and experiences both, Patna is an unmatchable city. Along with an array of things to do in Patna, the city also showcases a fine contrast between the ancient and modern worlds. When on a vacation in Patna, one can easily witness this blend. To be the cherry on top is the gently flowing river Ganga that acts as a significant part of Patna’s landscapes.
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Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Things to Do in Patna
What are the best attractions in Patna?
Some of the best attractions that you must explore during your visit to Patna include Golghar, Gurudwara Patna Sahib, Pataliputra, Ganga River, Buddha Smriti Park, Patna Planetarium, Mahatma Gandhi Setu, Agam Kuan, and Patna Museum.
What are the top things to do in Patna?
Patna has plenty of things that are a must-try such as visiting the Gurudwara Patna Sahib, strolling around a Buddhist Park, taking a ride on a boat along the Ganga river, driving along with one of the oldest and largest bridges, and much more.
Is it safe to visit Patna during covid times?
The Government of Bihar prioritizes public health, hence, have issued some safety guidelines such as social distancing, using face masks, applying hand sanitizers, and washing hands frequently, which must be adhered to by all visitors. Tickets should be booked online for contactless entry. Also, in some places for accommodation, visitors should provide their vaccination details for both doses for a hassle-free stay.
What is the best time to visit Patna?
It is best to visit Patna during the winter season. The months from October to March are, hence, considered the most ideal months to visit the capital city. Although, if you wish to visit when there is less crowd in Patna then August and September are the best time to visit.
What is the famous food of Patna?
One of the most famous dishes that is a must-try in Patna is ‘Litti Chokha’. Other than this one can try fish curry, sattu parathas, and posta-dana halwa. You can experience these dishes at various restaurants in Patna.
Where can I shop in Patna?
The best market places to shop in Patna are Patna Market, Hathwa Market, Khaitan Market, and Maurya Lok Market. You can shop for various antiques and handlooms, which are quite famous in Patna.
How far is Bodh Gaya from Patna?
Bodh Gaya is around 101 kilometers from Patna. One can cover the distance by either using the roads or railways. Visitors often travel by road as they get to experience various astounding sights during their road trip.
How many days are required to explore Patna?
Weligama is considered as one of the cities with rich cultural heritage and includes various exquisite attractions to explore during your visit. To explore this astounding attraction properly and to try all adventure activities, you will need at least a 3-4 days tour.
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A pastry-chef turned writer, Srishti has a knack for traveling to various corners of the country and penning them down in the most justifiable manner possible. When she’s not writing you can find her petting mountain dogs and not eating cottage cheese!
