Patna was once upon a time called Pataliputra when it was the capital of the Gupta Empire, Magadha and the Maurya Dynasty. It was famous over the world as a centre of scholarship and bright minds from everywhere came to Pataliputra, including Chanakya and Aryabhatta. It was also a famous trade and commerce zone of ancient India.
Even today, Patna is an important industrial and administrative city and popular among young entrepreneurs because of its friendly-business regulations.
Things to do in Patna
Your visit to Patna will be incomplete unless you visit the Patna Museum. It is a treasure trove of artefacts, archaeological antiques and sculptures dating back to the Gupta and Mauryan era that will give you a glimpse of what life was like back then.
After you tour the Patna Museum, you can make your way to the Nehru Park and the Buddha Smriti Park where the fresh clean air and greenery refresh you and uplift your mood. You should also opt for a ride on the River Ganga. Board a boat from Gandhi Ghat and experience the tranquillity of gliding along the ancient river.
Tourist attractions in Patna
It is no wonder that there are many places to attract tourists in Patna because it has a shining heritage. Places of interest in Patna include East Champaran, St. Mary’s Church, Indira Gandhi Planetarium, Kesaria Stupa, Gandhi Ghat, Padri ke Haveli and Khuda Baksh Oriental Library.
Places to shop in Patna
Tourists will find everything under the sun in the two exciting markets in Patna, namely Khaitan Market and Patna Market. If you are after traditional handicraft and Madhubani paintings, then you must make it a point to visit the Maurya Lok Emporium and Ajanta, where you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to wall hangings and other home decors.
Best time to visit Patna
It is recommended that tourists visit Patna in the October to March period when the temperature slides down and the weather is pleasant.
Patna is unbearable hot during summers when the temperature shoots up beyond 40 degrees Celsius.
Modes of transport in Patna
Auto-rickshaws, called tempos, can be found everywhere in Patna. This is the easiest mode of transportation here. Tourists can make the most of Patna’s rail and road network. There are also tourist buses operated by the government.
Weather in Patna
March to June is the summer season in Patna and the temperature is brutally hot. The monsoon months bring respite from the heat and Patna receives a very high amount of rainfall. Winters are extremely cold.
Airport in Patna
Patna airport, known as Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport (IATA- PAT), links the city to other major cities of India. You can find out more about flights operated by IndiGo from this airport by visiting its website.