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Best Time to Visit Patna

Best Time to Visit Patna

Patna Bihar, India Travel Guide

Climate Patterns and Travel Seasons

Summer March to June

Intense heat, dry conditions, temperatures exceeding 40°C.

Traveler Benefits

Few tourists, potentially lower prices for hotels.

Considerations

Days feel long and scorching, outdoor activities challenging, dust in the air.

Monsoon July to September

High humidity, substantial rainfall, temperatures 28°C to 35°C.

Traveler Benefits

Lower prices for travel and accommodation. Lush, green landscape post-rains.

Considerations

Heavy downpours, localized flooding, travel delays, high humidity.

Winter October to February

Most pleasant season, clear skies, mild temperatures 8°C to 25°C.

Traveler Benefits

Ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, day trips. Many festivals.

Considerations

Higher demand, increased prices, crowded tourist sites. Occasional morning fog.

High, Shoulder, and Low Season Overview

High Season October to March

Ideal weather for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and excursions. Many important festivals occur, bringing rich cultural experiences. Expect clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

Shoulder Season April, June, September

Fewer tourists might bring lower prices for hotels and some tours. April and June remain very hot. September still sees residual monsoon rains and high humidity. This season suits travelers prioritizing budget over perfect weather.

Low Season May, July, August

  • Prices:

    Lowest for journeys and accommodation.

  • Crowds:

    Landmarks are almost deserted.

  • May Weather:

    Severe heat, needing heatstroke precautions.

  • July/August Weather:

    Heavy monsoon rains, high humidity, travel delays.

  • Travelers:

    Suits budget travelers who accept weather challenges.

Special Weather Considerations

  • Monsoons (July-September): Expect heavy rainfall, localized flooding, and potential travel delays.
  • Extreme Temperatures (April-June): Intense summer heat, plan indoor activities for afternoons.
  • Fog (December-January): Dense morning fog might affect street and rail visibility, causing delays.

Ideal Timing for Activities

October to March brings the best conditions for sightseeing, exploring history, and pilgrimage. Festivals often occur then.

India Visa & Entry: Your Guide

Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter India.

Visa Types and Application

The e-Visa is a convenient option for tourists. Other visa types might need a traditional application through an embassy.

Documents

  • Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond entry, two blank pages.
  • Photos: Recent digital or physical passport-sized color photograph.
  • Visa Application Form: Complete accurately, online or physical.
  • Proof of Onward/Return Ticket and Sufficient Funds.

E-Visa vs. Traditional Visa

E-Visa: Apply online for durations of 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years. Traditional Visa: For those not qualifying for e-Visa, apply via an Indian embassy.

Application Details

  • E-Visa: Online through official portal. No embassy visit.
  • Traditional Visa: Through an Indian embassy/consulate. Physical documents, sometimes interview.
  • Fees: e-Visa fees vary by nationality and duration (USD 10-100). Traditional fees vary by country.
  • Immigration: Biometric data collection at entry. Keep e-Visa printout accessible.

Special Area Permits

Patna & Day Trips

  • No special permits for foreign tourists in Patna.
  • Immediate day-trip destinations (Nalanda, Rajgir, Vaishali) are open to general tourism.

Other Regions in India

  • Some specific, remote or politically sensitive regions in other parts of India do Restricted Area Permits (RAP) or Protected Area Permits (PAP).
  • These specific permits do not apply to your Patna itinerary.

Health-Related Entry Requirements

  • Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: Mandatory if you arrive from or transit through a country with risk. Carry the original.
  • Routine Vaccinations: MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella for all travelers.
  • Additional Vaccinations: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Rabies, and An Illness spread by mosquitoes in asia are often suggested.
  • Consult your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip for immunizations.

Immigration Procedures Simplified

Upon arrival at designated Indian ports of entry (including major international airports), present your passport and visa (or e-Visa confirmation printout).

Entry Process

  • Immigration officers will process your entry.
  • Personal biometric details (fingerprints and a photograph) is commonly collected.
  • Keep your e-Visa printout accessible for a quicker process.

Important Notes

  • Fees for e-Visas range from approximately USD 10 to USD 100.
  • Traditional fees for a visa vary; check with the specific Indian embassy.
  • Pay all fees online during the application process.

Travel Advice

Check the latest World Health Organization (WHO) list of Yellow Fever endemic countries before your trip.