Top 21 Best Places To Visit In Patna

Best Places To Visit In Patna : Encompassing the rich tapestry of India’s past, Patna traces its origins back to the 5th century BC when it bore the name Patiliputra. Today, this city stands as a testament to its illustrious history, adorned with magnificent remnants of its ancient past. Beyond mere urban confines, Patna unfolds as a vibrant tapestry of cultural heritage. Its landscape is graced with monasteries, temples, and museums, each offering a glimpse into the city’s multifaceted identity.

Bearing witness to a recent surge in development and industrialization, Patna now epitomizes a seamless fusion of tradition and modernity. To experience this captivating blend firsthand, here’s a curated selection of Patna’s finest attractions that deserve a prominent place on every traveler’s itinerary.

1. Srikrishna Science Centre

Regarded as a pivotal destination in Patna, this splendid and state-of-the-art science center first opened its doors in 1978. Renowned for its extensive array of captivating exhibits showcasing the intricacies of scientific principles, it offers a diverse range of experiences tailored for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a curious child or a discerning adult, this venue promises an enriching and innovative educational journey. Undoubtedly, it stands as one of the city’s most celebrated landmarks.

2. Bihar Museum

For enthusiasts of history, the Bihar Museum stands out as a premier destination in Patna. Offering a captivating glimpse into the rich tapestry of the state’s history and ancient culture, it serves as a beacon for understanding Bihar’s heritage. Within its halls lie artifacts dating back centuries, some sourced from the venerable Patna Museum itself. Complementing these treasures are exhibitions and insights into the broader scope of human history. Spanning across a vast expanse of 5.6 hectares, the museum’s architecture is characterized by a dispersed layout, housing galleries, educational facilities, and administrative spaces, all contributing to an immersive and enlightening experience.

3. Patna Planetarium

Nestled within the heart of Patna, the Patna Planetarium stands as a testament to innovation and grandeur, ranking among Asia’s oldest and largest of its kind. Boasting a cutting-edge projection system and an architecturally refined complex featuring a sleek auditorium, it offers visitors an unparalleled celestial experience. Within the auditorium, a captivating array of film shows unfolds, each intricately woven around the theme of astronomy. Undoubtedly, this iconic destination holds a well-deserved place among Patna’s most renowned attractions.

4. Patna Museum

Fondly known as the Jadu Ghar among locals, the Patna Museum stands as a premier destination in Bihar’s cultural landscape. Home to a staggering collection of approximately 50,000 rare art objects, it offers a mesmerizing journey through time and heritage. Within its hallowed halls reside Indian artifacts spanning from the medieval era to the British Colonial period and beyond, each a testament to the region’s rich historical tapestry. Erected in 1917, the museum’s architectural splendor reflects a harmonious blend of Mughal and Rajput influences, adorned with numerous galleries that beckon exploration. Undoubtedly, it holds a revered status among Patna’s most cherished landmarks.

5. Japanese Peace Pagoda

Unearthed in 1969, the Japanese Peace Pagoda stands tall at 125 feet, a serene testament to tranquility crafted by the Buddh Vihar Society. Adorned in pristine white, this magnificent stupa emerges amidst lush greenery, further enhanced by a tranquil pond offering opportunities for leisurely boating. Encircling the Stupa lies a museum nestled on the northern bank, housing a treasure trove of artifacts unearthed during the excavation. Undoubtedly, this enchanting site ranks high among Patna’s most sought-after tourist destinations.

6. Chhoti Dargah

Preserving its historical legacy, the Chhoti Dargah stands as a three-storied testament to reverence and architectural finesse, nestled in Maner. Positioned approximately 30 kilometers from Patna along NH-30, it emerges as a captivating architectural marvel. This sacred site enshrines the resting place of Makhdum Shah, interred here in 1616, now revered as a popular dargah among Muslims. Adjacent to the mausoleum lies a vast tank, its tranquil waters mirroring the solemnity of the surroundings. Perfect for a day trip with friends, this destination warrants inclusion in any exploration of Patna’s cultural heritage.

7. Sanjay Gandhi Botanical Garden

Popularly known as Sanjay Gandhi Jaivik Udyan, this verdant botanical garden took root in 1969. It stands as an enchanting haven for couples seeking romantic escapades in Patna, boasting an extensive array of flora and fauna. Dubbed also as the Patna Zoo, this sanctuary beckons families with children, offering a myriad of exciting experiences such as elephant rides and traversing the grounds aboard a charming toy train.

8. Lauriya Nandangarh

Renowned for its exquisitely crafted Ashokan Pillar, this enchanting town is situated 28 km northwest of Bettiah. The name “Lauriya” originates from the word “Laur,” referencing the pillar of the Mauryan emperor Ashoka. The site features approximately 20 archaeological mounds arranged in three distinct rows. Although Emperor Ashoka originally erected around 40 pillars here, only one remains standing today, serving as a significant and must-visit historical landmark. This destination is among the most popular tourist spots near Patna.

9. Gandhi Ghat

Gandhi Ghat, a revered religious site on the banks of the Ganges, stands as one of Patna’s prominent tourist attractions, marking the immersion site of Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes. The main highlight of this picturesque location is the Ganga Aarti, where a group of priests, clad in saffron robes, perform a mesmerizing prayer ceremony with 51 lamps. Visiting this site is among the top activities to experience in Patna.

10. Golghar

Located in the heart of Patna, Golghar was constructed in 1786 by Captain John Garstin as a granary. This massive structure, set against the scenic backdrop of Patna, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city from its summit. It is undoubtedly one of the best places in Patna for those seeking tranquility.

11. Patan Devi Mandir

The Patan Devi Temple, locally revered as Maa Patneshwari, is a significant religious landmark in Patna. As the city’s oldest temple, it attracts tourists for its unique spiritual experiences. Recognized as one of the Shakti Peethas, it draws pilgrims year-round. This temple stands out as one of Patna’s most popular tourist destinations.

12. Kumhrar

Discover the remains of the ancient city of Pataliputra, a site rich in historical significance and the focus of numerous archaeological excavations. Key attractions include Arogya Vihar, Assembly Hall, Durakhi Devi Temple, and Anand Bihar. This destination is a true haven for history enthusiasts and anyone passionate about uncovering the mysteries of the past.

13. Ajanta

Bihar is renowned for its exquisite Madhubani paintings, and Patna, as the capital city, boasts numerous prominent centers showcasing this fine art. For those who appreciate Madhubani paintings and wish to purchase authentic masterpieces, a visit to Ajanta on Fraser Road is highly recommended. Note that the gallery is closed on Sundays.

14. Gandhi Sanghrahalaya

Gandhi Sangrahalaya is a captivating museum, ideal for visiting with friends who share your enthusiasm for history. This museum attracts many tourists, offering a visual biography of Mahatma Gandhi’s life through an extensive collection of photographs that depict his life’s journey. Additionally, it features numerous books and an audio library that provide in-depth information about that historical era.

15. Mahavir Mandir

Mahavir Mandir, also known as Manokamna Temple, is renowned as the second-largest religious shrine in North India. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple attracts thousands of pilgrims year-round. Hanuman, revered as Sankat Mochan, is believed to grant the wishes of his devotees, which is why locals affectionately refer to it as Manokamna Mandir.

16. Sitamarhi

Sitamarhi, a tranquil town, holds significant religious importance for Hindus as the believed birthplace of Goddess Sita, consort of Lord Ram. Its close proximity to Patna renders it a favored pilgrimage destination, easily accessible by road. Dotted with numerous temples, the town evokes tales from the Valmiki Ramayana, enriching the spiritual experience for visitors. Don’t miss the opportunity to include this sacred spot on your list of summer destinations to explore around Patna.

17. Jalan Museum

For history enthusiasts exploring Patna, a visit to the Japan Museum is a must. Situated in Agamkuan, colloquially referred to as Quila House, this museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts from the British Raj era in India. Note that access to this private property requires prior permissions. Among its rare treasures is the wooden bed of Napoleon III, adding to its allure as one of the top destinations near Patna.

18. Gandhi Maidan

Tucked close to the Ganges River’s edge, within mere moments from Golghar, lies the historic expanse of Gandhi Maidan, a must-visit landmark for families exploring Patna. Situated roughly 3 kilometers from the city’s heart, visitors are greeted with the towering presence of the world’s tallest Mahatma Gandhi statue. As one traverses through the vibrant atmosphere and bustling marketplace enveloping this ground, an enriching experience awaits amidst its premises.

19. Eco Park

Also known as Rajdhani Vatika, Eco Park near Strand Road in Patna is the perfect place to spend your weekend or for a spontaneous picnic lunch. As you explore the many attractions in Patna, these grounds offer a calm refuge from the city’s hubbub. Whether you are travelling solo or with family, there are vast stretches of nature to enjoy, and a park adjacent to this space where kids can spend time playing.

20. ISKCON Temple

One of the primary religious attractions in Patna, the ISKCON Temple is a vast structure built through the 2010s. The Radha Krishna idol is often the central focus for many on their trip to this establishment but a memorable destination nonetheless for travellers who want to learn about the regional scene.

21. Kolhua Complex

The Kolhua Complex features a remarkable historical stupa crowned by a magnificent hemispherical dome. This architectural marvel is further adorned by a 2,300-year-old Ashoka pillar, encircled by monastic structures, creating a captivating ensemble of ancient splendor

Best Places To Visit In Patna : Vacations extend far beyond scenic landscapes of mountains and beaches, a truth vividly illustrated by the myriad attractions awaiting discovery in Patna. These locales serve as custodians of the city’s vibrant heritage and cultural tapestry, promising an immersive journey for aficionados of history. As you plan your excursion to Patna, be sure to prioritize these remarkable destinations, where you can delve into the unparalleled architectural wonders that adorn the nation.