Getting Around Patna. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Overview of Public Transit Systems

City buses form the backbone of Patna's public transport. The Bihar State Road Transport Corporation (BSRTC) operates a fleet of diesel and CNG buses connecting various parts of the city.

These buses are often crowded but offer a budget-friendly way to reach many destinations. The Patna Metro rail project is currently under construction. Phase 1 plans for partial operations by 2024-2025.

Transit Modes

Buses: Extensive network, operated by BSRTC, budget-friendly.
Patna Metro: Under construction, partial operations expected by 2024-2025.
Trams: Patna does not have a tram system.
Don't count on the underground for current travel plans.

City Bus Network

Bus routes crisscross the city, connecting major residential areas, economic centers, and sights.

Patna Metro Development

A full operational the system is still several years away. Future travel will change.

Important Bus Hubs

Major points for catching buses include Gandhi Maidan, Patna Junction, and Mithapur Bus Stand.

Route Maps and Important Hubs

Route Information

Bus routes connect major residential areas, commercial hubs, and tourist sites.
Bus Hubs: Gandhi Maidan, Patna Junction (railway station), and Mithapur Bus Station.
Route information comes from bus stand inquiry counters or by asking locals.

Operating Details

Hours: Early morning (around 6:00 AM) until late evening (9:00 PM or 10:00 PM).
Frequency: Varies by route. Primary routes have higher frequency.
Fares: Low and economical. Pay the conductor directly in cash upon boarding.

Accessibility and Efficiency Tips

Limited Accessibility

Public buses have limited accessibility for mobility challenges.

Ask Locals for Help

Do not hesitate to ask for directions or bus routes from residents.

Google Maps Support

Use Google Maps for general route planning, but confirm with locals.

Be Ready for Crowds

Buses can be very crowded, especially during peak hours. Be aware.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Convenience

For more comfort, privacy, and convenience, taxis and ride-sharing services are favored options in Patna. These options contrast with the traditional auto-rickshaws.

Licensed Taxis & Fares

Identification: Traditional licensed taxis are less common, often recognizable by yellow tops.
Pre-paid Taxis: Available at Jay Prakash Narayan Airport and Patna Junction. Fixed fares.
Hailing: Less common. Most people use ride-sharing apps or auto-rickshaws.
Fares: Greater than auto-rickshaws. Negotiate before starting if not pre-paid/metered. Cash payment is standard.

Ride-Sharing Apps & Safety

Apps: Ola and Uber are widely available and extremely popular in Patna.
Payment: Transparent pricing in-app. Cash or linked credit/debit card options.
Safety: Generally safer due to GPS tracking, driver ratings, and trip sharing options.
Airport/Station: Designated pick-up points at PNR and Patna Junction are usually well-marked.

General Safety for All Options

Auto-rickshaws: Always negotiate the fare beforehand.
Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings, specifically if traveling alone or at night.
Unverified Vehicles: Avoid getting into unverified vehicles, specifically late at night.

Destination: Ensure the driver clearly understands your destination.
Trust Instincts: Trust your intuition; if something feels off, choose another option.
Connectivity: An active local SIM or roaming is useful for ride-sharing apps.

Ride-Sharing & Local Apps

Ola App

A popular Indian ride-sharing app, often with wider coverage in local areas.

Uber App

International ride-sharing service, widely available in Patna.

WhatsApp

Essential for local communication and coordination with contacts.

Exploring with Rental Options

While self-driving is not commonly recommended for tourists, rental options with operators bring convenience and flexibility for exploring Patna and surrounding areas.

Car Rental Procedures

Self-Drive: Limited and not generally recommended for foreign tourists.
Car with Driver: The recommended option for full-day excursions, transfers, or day trips.
Requirements: For rentals with a driver, only your passport and visa for identification.
Booking: Available through local travel agencies, larger hotels, and some online platforms.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Availability: Mainly cater to locals and are not widely promoted for tourists.
Risks: Chaotic traffic has a less safe option for visitors unknowledgeable about local driving.
Bicycle Rentals: Dedicated bicycle sharing programs or extensive tourist-oriented bicycle rentals are not widely established.
Safety: Cycling on main roads is not generally recommended due to heavy traffic.

Driving Laws and Parking

Driving Laws

Vehicles drive on the left side of the road in India. Traffic rules are often loosely followed.

Honking is prevalent and used as a warning.

Road Conditions

Road conditions vary significantly. Major roads might be decent, but smaller streets can be congested.

Expect narrow and poorly maintained lanes.

Parking Information

Parking is challenging in crowded commercial areas. If hiring a car with a driver, they manage parking.

Drivers manage parking needs.

Specialty Vehicle Options

Auto-rickshaws

Three-wheeled motorized vehicles, common for short distances.
Hire individual or shared auto-rickshaws (tempos/tuk-tuks) following fixed routes.
Negotiate fares.

Cycle-rickshaws

For extremely short distances and a more traditional experience.
Available in some areas.
Negotiate fares.

Important Driving Reminders

Self-driving is generally not recommended for international visitors.
Indian traffic conditions can be chaotic.
Roads vary in quality, and local driving rules often differ.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals carry higher risks for unfamiliar visitors.

Cycling on main roads is not commonly recommended due to heavy traffic.
Hiring a car with a driver brings a safer and more relaxed way to travel.
Always negotiate auto-rickshaw fares beforehand.
Avoid night driving due to poor lighting and unmarked obstacles.

Unique Ways to Get Around Patna

Beyond the standard options, Patna has some specialized transport modes for specific purposes or unique experiences. These complement the public and private options.

Tour Buses & Water Transportation

Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC) offers sightseeing tours.
These are usually fixed itineraries. Hop-on-hop-off services are not prevalent.
Boat taxis and water transport are available on the Ganges River, specifically around Gandhi Ghat.
A boat ride on the Ganges offers an unique perspective of the city.

Cable Cars & Accessibility

No cable cars or funiculars exist within Patna itself.
Rajgir, a common day trip, features a popular ropeway to Vishwa Shanti Stupa.
Accessibility Services: Generally very limited in local transportation in Patna.
Private transport with a suitable vehicle a practical solution for mobility challenges.