Patna, the capital of Bihar, is a city steeped in history and culture, standing proudly on the banks of the sacred Ganges River. Once known as Pataliputra, it was the seat of power for mighty empires like the Mauryas and the Guptas, shaping India’s rich heritage. Today, Patna seamlessly blends its glorious past with modern aspirations, emerging as a growing hub for education, commerce, and governance. From ancient landmarks like Golghar and Kumhrar to vibrant markets and revered pilgrimage sites like Takht Sri Patna Sahib, the city offers a unique charm. With its deep-rooted traditions, warm hospitality, and rapid development, Patna continues to be a significant and dynamic part of India’s journey forward.
1. Takhat Shri Harimandir ji Patna Sahib
Takhat Shri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib, also known as Patna Sahib Gurudwara, is one of the five sacred Takhts of Sikhism. Located in Patna, Bihar, it marks the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. Built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the 18th century, this revered shrine is a symbol of faith, devotion, and Sikh heritage. The gurudwara attracts thousands of devotees from across the world who come to seek blessings and experience its spiritual serenity. The site also houses sacred relics of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, making it a significant pilgrimage destination for Sikhs and history enthusiasts alike.
Location : Takhat Shri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib is located in the city of Patna, the capital of Bihar, India.
Timing : The timings for Takhat Shri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib are generally as follows:
- Morning: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Evening: 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee to visit Takhat Shri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib.
2. Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park
Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park, also known as Patna Zoo, is a well-known zoological park located in Patna, Bihar. Spread across an area of approximately 150 acres, it is one of the largest and oldest zoos in India. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species such as tigers, lions, leopards, elephants, and numerous species of birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
Location : Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park is located in the Patna Zoo area, near Bailey Road, in the heart of Patna, Bihar.
Timing : Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park (Patna Zoo) is generally open during the following hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The park is closed on Holi and Diwali.
Entry Fee : The entry fee for Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park (Patna Zoo) is as follows:
- For Adults: ₹30
- For Children (3 to 12 years): ₹10
- For Foreign Tourists: ₹100
3. Golghar
Golghar is a historic structure located in Patna, Bihar, built in 1786 by Captain John Garstin of the British East India Company. Originally constructed as a granary to store grains for the British army, its unique beehive-like shape and massive dome make it one of Patna’s iconic landmarks.
Location : Golghar is located near the Ganges River in the heart of Patna, Bihar, close to the Gandhi Maidan.
Timing : Golghar is typically open for visitors from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day.
Entry Fee : The entry fee for Golghar is typically:
- For Indian visitors: ₹10
- For Foreign tourists: ₹50
4. Bihar Museum
Bihar Museum, located in the heart of Patna, is a contemporary museum that highlights the state’s rich historical, cultural, and artistic heritage. Opened in 2015, it is one of the most modern museums in India, with a design that blends innovation and tradition. The museum’s collection includes ancient sculptures, coins, manuscripts, and paintings, particularly from the Maurya, Gupta, and Buddhist eras.
Location : Bihar Museum is located in the heart of Patna, Bihar, on the Bailey Road, near the Golghar area.
Timing : Bihar Museum is typically open during the following hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
It remains closed on Holidays and Public Holidays.
Entry Fee : The entry fee for Bihar Museum is generally:
- For Indian visitors: ₹20
- For Foreign tourists: ₹200
5. Buddha Smriti Park
Buddha Smriti Park is a peaceful and beautifully landscaped park located in Patna, Bihar. Established to commemorate the visit of the 14th Dalai Lama in 2010, the park is dedicated to Lord Buddha and promotes the teachings of peace, compassion, and non-violence.
Location : Buddha Smriti Park is located in the heart of Patna, Bihar, near the Patna Railway Station and the Mahatma Gandhi Setu.
Timing : Buddha Smriti Park is typically open during the following hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
The park may remain closed on certain public holidays or for special events.
Entry Fee : The entry fee for Buddha Smriti Park is generally:
- For Indian visitors: ₹10
- For Foreign tourists: ₹20
6. Gandhi Maidan
Gandhi Maidan is a historic public ground in Patna, Bihar, known for its cultural and political significance. It hosts major events like Independence Day celebrations and political rallies. The park features a statue of Mahatma Gandhi and serves as a central hub for social and public activities in the city.
Location : Gandhi Maidan is located in the heart of Patna, Bihar, near the Patna Railway Station and the Patna Secretariat.
Timing : Gandhi Maidan is open to the public throughout the day, typically from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee to visit Gandhi Maidan.
7. Indira Gandhi Planetarium
Indira Gandhi Planetarium, located in Patna, Bihar, is one of the major attractions for science and astronomy enthusiasts. Established in 1993, it is named after former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and aims to promote awareness about space and science.
Location : Indira Gandhi Planetarium is located in the heart of Patna, Bihar, near the Gandhi Maidan area.
Timing : Indira Gandhi Planetarium is generally open during the following hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Sunday: Closed (for maintenance or special events)
Entry Fee : The entry fee for Indira Gandhi Planetarium is generally as follows:
- For Adults: ₹20
- For Children (3 to 12 years): ₹10
- For Students: ₹10
8. Shrikrishna Science Centre
Shrikrishna Science Centre, located in Patna, Bihar, is a popular science museum that aims to promote scientific knowledge and curiosity among visitors of all ages. Established in 1991, the centre is named after Lord Krishna and features a variety of interactive exhibits related to science, technology, and innovation.
Location : Shrikrishna Science Centre is located in the heart of Patna, Bihar, near the Mahatma Gandhi Setu and the Gandhi Maidan area.
Timing : Shrikrishna Science Centre is generally open during the following hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Entry Fee : The entry fee for Shrikrishna Science Centre is generally as follows:
- For Adults: ₹20
- For Children (3 to 12 years): ₹10
- For Students: ₹10
Famous Food In Patna
1. Sattu Paratha
Sattu Paratha is a traditional and popular dish in Bihar, especially in Patna. It is a type of flatbread stuffed with sattu, which is roasted gram flour, and spiced to perfection. Sattu is a staple in Bihari cuisine and is known for its nutritional value.
Ingredients : wheat flour and sattu
2. Chana Ghugni
Chana Ghugni is a popular and flavourful street food from Bihar, especially in Patna. It is a spicy and tangy dish made from chickpeas (chana) cooked with a variety of spices and herbs, creating a rich, aromatic, and hearty snack.
Ingredients : Chana, and spices
3. Litti Chokha
Litti Chokha is a traditional and iconic dish from Bihar, widely loved for its rustic flavors and simplicity. It consists of litti, a round wheat flour dough ball stuffed with roasted gram flour (sattu) and spices, paired with chokha, a side dish made from mashed vegetables like eggplant, tomato, and potato.
Ingredients : whole wheat flour, Sattu, eggplant, tomato and potato
4. Choora
Choora is a traditional Bihari dish made from flattened rice (poha), often served as a breakfast or snack. It is a simple, healthy, and comforting dish that is highly popular in Bihar, especially during festivals or as part of the morning meal. Choora is typically paired with curd (dahi) or chana (chickpeas) and sometimes sweetened with jaggery or sugar.
Ingredients : flattened rice, and spices
5. Anarasa
Anarasa is a traditional sweet dish from Bihar, often made during festivals, especially during Chhath Puja. This delicious and crispy treat is made from rice flour and jaggery, with a hint of sesame seeds or poppy seeds for added flavour and texture. It is deep-fried and has a unique crispy, chewy texture, making it a beloved part of Bihari cuisine.
Ingredients : rice flour, and jaggery
6. Bihari Kebab
Bihari Kebab is a delicious and aromatic dish from the state of Bihar, known for its tender, juicy, and flavourful meat. The kebabs are made from marinated mutton (goat meat), chicken, or sometimes beef, and cooked with an array of spices. The marination process is key to making these kebabs flavourful and soft, as the meat absorbs the spices and tenderizes over time.
Ingredients : mutton(or chicken), yogurt and spices
