Patna

Tourist places in Patna, Patna Travel Info

City Overview

PATNA is the capital city of the Indian state of Bihar and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Situated on the southern bank of the Ganga River, Patna has been a major center of power, culture, education, and trade for over two millennia. In ancient times, it was known as Pataliputra and served as the capital of powerful empires such as the Maurya and Gupta dynasties.

Patna holds immense historical and cultural significance in Indian history. It was closely associated with figures like Emperor Ashoka and Chanakya and played a key role in the development of ancient Indian administration, education, and philosophy. The city is also important in Buddhist, Jain, and Sikh traditions, with several religious and heritage sites located in and around it.

Today, Patna functions as Bihar’s administrative, political, educational, and commercial hub. The city’s economy is driven by government services, education, healthcare, trade, transport, and small-scale industries. Rapid urban development, infrastructure growth, and connectivity improvements have strengthened its role as a regional metropolitan center. Patna is suitable for professionals, students, researchers, pilgrims, and visitors interested in history, governance, and the cultural evolution of eastern India.

Best Time to Visit

Patna experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers from April to June are very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C.

The monsoon season from July to September brings moderate to heavy rainfall, replenishing the Ganga and supporting agriculture in surrounding regions. Winters from October to February are cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging between 7°C and 25°C.

The best time to visit Patna is from October to February, when weather conditions are comfortable for sightseeing and travel.

Transportation & Getting Around

Patna has excellent connectivity by air, rail, and road. Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport connects the city to major Indian metros. Patna Junction is one of the busiest railway stations in eastern India, linking the city to all parts of the country.

Local transportation includes city buses, auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cab services. Road bridges over the Ganga further enhance connectivity within the region.

Nearby Places & Day Trips

Patna serves as a gateway to several important historical and religious destinations in Bihar. Ancient learning centers, pilgrimage towns, and riverine landscapes lie within easy reach.

Day trips from Patna often include visits to Nalanda, Rajgir, Vaishali, and other heritage sites, offering deep insight into the ancient and medieval history of the region.