Patna Bihar, India Travel Guide
Nalanda (Approx. 90 km southeast of Patna): A UNESCO World Heritage site and a once-renowned Buddhist monastic university. Explore extensive ruins of stupas, temples, and lecture halls. Visit the Nalanda Archaeological Museum.
Rajgir (Approx. 100 km southeast of Patna): A historic and religious site for Buddhists and Jains. See the Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Gridhakuta Hill, ancient cyclopean wall, Sonbhandar caves, and hot springs.
Pawapuri (Approx. 100 km to the southeast of Patna): A sacred Jain pilgrimage site where Lord Mahavira attained Nirvana. The beautiful white marble Jal Mandir stands in a lotus lake.
Vaishali (Approx. 60 km north of Patna): An important Buddhist pilgrimage site and an ancient republic. Features the Ashokan Pillar, a large stupa, and the Coronation Tank.
While Patna is urban, the surrounding areas reveal natural beauty.
Rajgir Wildlife Sanctuary (near Rajgir): This area features natural beauty and a chance for wildlife viewing. The hills around Rajgir contrast with the plains.
Patna lacks nearby beaches or mountains. However, travel through rural Bihar has glimpses into village life.
Bihar cradles ancient Indian culture and religion beyond Patna's city limits.
Nalanda Mahavihara's ruins portray a bygone era of intellectual and spiritual flourishing. Rajgir features Gridhakuta Hill, Sonbhandar caves, and the ancient cyclopean wall. Pawapuri's Jal Mandir is an architectural marvel.
Travel between Patna and its day trip destinations allows passage through numerous rural villages and agricultural fields. Stopping in a village might occur accompanied by a local guide.
Bodh Gaya (approx. 110 km south of Patna) is the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage site globally, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. An overnight the stay is often advised.
Bodh Gaya is an UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring the Mahabodhi Temple Complex and numerous monasteries built by different Buddhist countries.
Bodh Gaya is a natural next a move for those on the Buddhist Circuit. Varanasi, an ancient Hindu city, has a reasonable extension for sacred and cultural interests.
Extend your stay beyond Patna to fully immerse yourself in Bihar's heritage or explore neighboring regions.
An essential addition for Buddhist pilgrims or those interested in world heritage and spiritual sites. Spend time exploring the Mahabodhi Temple Complex and the various international monasteries.
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a holy Hindu city on the banks of the Ganges. Renowned for its ghats, temples, and intense spiritual atmosphere.
After Patna and its immediate surrounds, Bodh Gaya stands for a natural next step for those following the Buddhist Circuit. Varanasi is a logical extension for those interested in Hindu spirituality and riverine culture.
Trace the significant sites of Buddha's life or complete a classic Indian travel circuit by extending your journey.
Consider travel times and local transportation from destination to destination.
Book hotels or b&bs in advance, especially in popular pilgrimage towns or during peak season.
For structured tours to these extended destinations, search for options on GetYourGuide.
Using guides from the area at significant sites like Bodh Gaya or Varanasi enriches the experience.
Efficient planning optimizes your visit to Patna's surrounding attractions.
A full day trip (10-12 hours) for a quick look. For exploration, consider separate visits.
A half to full day trip, varying with interest in historic and religious sites.
Feasible as a very long day trip, but an overnight stay of 1-2 days provides a comprehensive and reflective experience.
Tailor your trips to align with your historical, spiritual, or cultural interests.
Choose between private cars for comfort or public transport for economy.
Decide whether you prefer a quick overview or an in-depth exploration of each site.
