Patna, the capital city of Bihar, is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. It is home to several ancient temples, museums, parks, and historical monuments. Here are the top 15 places to visit in Patna:
- Mahavir Mandir Mahavir Mandir is one of the most famous and sacred temples in Patna. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is visited by thousands of devotees every day.
- Patna Museum Patna Museum is a must-visit place for history buffs. It houses a vast collection of artifacts, sculptures, and relics from the Mauryan and Gupta periods, as well as the British colonial era.
- Golghar Golghar is a famous landmark in Patna. It is a massive granary that was built by the British in the 18th century to store grains. The top of the Golghar offers a panoramic view of the city.
- Gandhi Maidan Gandhi Maidan is a large public park located in the heart of the city. It is a popular spot for jogging, picnics, and outdoor activities. The park also hosts several cultural and political events throughout the year.
- Takht Sri Patna Sahib Takht Sri Patna Sahib is one of the most important Sikh pilgrimage sites in India. It is believed to be the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh guru. The complex houses a gurdwara, a museum, and a library.
- Padri Ki Haveli Padri Ki Haveli is a historic church in Patna. It was built in the 18th century by a French priest and is one of the oldest churches in the city.
- Kumhrar Kumhrar is an archaeological site that dates back to the Mauryan period. It is believed to be the site of the ancient city of Pataliputra, the capital of the Mauryan Empire.
- Agam Kuan Agam Kuan is an ancient well that dates back to the Mauryan period. It is believed to be the oldest and deepest well in India and has a great religious significance.
- Nalanda University Nalanda University is an ancient university that was established in the 5th century AD. It was one of the most famous and prestigious universities in the world during its time.
- Mahatma Gandhi Setu Mahatma Gandhi Setu is a bridge that connects Patna with Hajipur across the River Ganges. It is one of the longest river bridges in India and offers a spectacular view of the river.
- Sanjay Gandhi Jaivik Udyan Sanjay Gandhi Jaivik Udyan, also known as Patna Zoo, is a popular tourist attraction in the city. It is home to a wide variety of animals, birds, and reptiles, including tigers, leopards, lions, and elephants.
- Patna Planetarium Patna Planetarium is one of the oldest planetariums in India. It offers a unique and interactive way to learn about astronomy and space science.
- Buddha Smriti Park Buddha Smriti Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of the city. It is dedicated to Lord Buddha and features a large statue of him, as well as a museum and a meditation center.
- ISKCON Temple ISKCON Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is located in the outskirts of the city and offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
- Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library is a treasure trove of ancient manuscripts, rare books, and documents related to Islamic and Indian culture. The library was established in 1891 by the renowned scholar Khuda Bakhsh Khan, and it has been maintained and expanded over the years by his family. The library is located in a beautiful colonial-era building and has a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can browse through the thousands of books and manuscripts, including the rare Arabic and Persian manuscripts, illuminated Qurans, and other historic documents. The library also has a museum section that displays some of the rare and valuable items in its collection, such as an original copy of the Baburnama, the memoirs of Mughal Emperor Babur.The library is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, from 10 am to 4 pm, and admission is free. Visitors are required to deposit their bags and cameras at the entrance, as photography is not allowed inside the library. The library staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they are happy to assist visitors in their research or to answer any questions they may have.
- Mahavir Mandir Mahavir Mandir is a popular religious site located in Patna. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is believed to fulfill the wishes of the devotees. The temple premises also houses a shrine of Lord Rama, Goddess Durga, and Lord Shiva. The temple witnesses a huge footfall during the festivals of Ram Navami, Dussehra, and Hanuman Jayanti.
- Bihar Museum The Bihar Museum is a must-visit place for history enthusiasts. It showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of Bihar through its exhibits. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and documents that date back to the ancient and medieval period. The museum also has a children’s section that educates kids about the history and culture of Bihar in an interactive way.
- Gandhi Maidan Gandhi Maidan is a large public park located in the heart of Patna. The park is named after Mahatma Gandhi and is a popular spot for morning and evening walks. The park has several statues, fountains, and a giant tricolor flag that adds to its charm. Gandhi Maidan also hosts several cultural and political events throughout the year, including the famous Chhath Puja.
In conclusion, Patna is a city with a rich cultural and historical heritage, and it offers a wealth of attractions for visitors. From ancient monuments to modern museums, from religious sites to natural wonders, Patna has something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, a culture vulture, or simply seeking a relaxing holiday, Patna is the perfect destination for you.