20 Amazing Things to Do in Patna For Travellers!

 In India, Patna, Things to do

Welcome to Patna, a city where ancient history meets vibrant modernity! Nestled on the southern banks of the holy Ganges River, Patna stands as a Top Places to Visit in Bihar with rich cultural heritage and dynamic presence. 

As the busy capital city, Patna offers a mix of historical glory and contemporary charm, making it a must-visit destination for those eager to uncover its secrets. From exploring timeless landmarks to tasting its unique cuisine and soaking in the local culture, there are many things to do in Patna that promise an unforgettable adventure. 

So, get ready to embark on a journey through this beautiful city, and let us guide you through a memorable exploration of the 20 Best Things to Do in Patna.

20 Best Things to Do in Patna

1. Enjoy scenic views of the city from Golghar

golghar

Enjoying scenic views of Patna from the iconic Golghar is one of the top tourist activities in Patna. Constructed in 1786 by Captain John Garstin, the Golghar was originally designed as a granary to safeguard against shortage. 

Situated beside the River Ganga, its unique bulb or dome-like shape attracts visitors from all over. 

While the interior of this historic structure remains inaccessible to the public, a spiral staircase provides access to the top of the dome. 

From this elevated standpoint, you can enjoy scenic views of the lush gardens below, the serene river beside, and the busy cityscape stretching out ahead.

Hence, visiting this historic place is one of the best things to do in Patna.

  • Timings: 09:30 AM.- 06:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: Free

2. Experience the beauty of Culture and the Ganges at Gandhi Ghat

gandhi-ghat.

Just 4.5 km from Patna City Centre, experiencing the beauty of Gandhi Ghat is one of the best things to do in Patna

This historic site is renowned for the immersion of Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes and its captivating evening Ganga Aarti, featuring 51 diyas and attracting crowds with its spiritual ambiance. 

Opened in 2011, visiting this place is one of the top tourist activities in Patna . This ghat also offers a unique experience with a river cruise ship and onboard restaurant. 

Don’t miss the annual kite festival on Makar Sankranti, where vibrant kite displays light up the sky, or enjoy serene boating activities on the Ganges.

Timing for River Cruise Ship: Monday-Friday: 04:00 PM , Saturday-Sunday: 03:00 PM, 04:00 PM, and 05:00 PM

Price for River Cruise Ship: 300 per person for 1 hour

Also Read: Top 10 Things To Do In Kohima For An Unforgettable Trip

3. Discover Sikh Heritage and Devotion in Patna Sahib Gurudwara

Patna Sahib Gurudwara

Located 9 km from Patna City Centre, discovering Harmandir Takht Shri Patna Sahib, or Patna Sahib Gurudwara, a key Sikh pilgrimage site on the Ganges’ banks is one of the best things to do in Patna.

Dedicated to the tenth Sikh Guru, Shri Guru Gobind Singh, paying devotion to this sacred gurudwara is one of the top tourist activities in Patna and is the second of Sikhism’s five Takhts. 

Visitors can join daily prayers at 5:45 A.M. and 6:00 P.M., and enjoy free meals from the communal kitchen. 

The Gurudwara’s annual celebration of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s birth anniversary in December attracts devotees from across the region.

  • Timings: 05:00 AM.- 09:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: No Entry fee

4. Dive into Interactive Science Fun and Discovery at Srikrishna Science Centre

srikrishna-science-centre

Just 1 km from Patna City Centre, near Gandhi Maidan, Shrikrishna Science Centre is Bihar’s premier regional science center, established in 1978 and named after the state’s first Chief Minister. 

Visiting this center is one of the best fun activities in Patna for tourists. The center welcomes visitors with lifelike dinosaur replicas at the entrance, attracting children and families. 

Inside, interactive exhibits and engaging activities are some of the best things to do in Patna making it a popular spot for science enthusiasts of all ages.

  • Timings: 09:30 AM.- 06:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: 40

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5. Taste a Meal with Panoramic Views at Revolving Restaurant

patang-the-revolving-restaurant

Just 1 km from Patna City Centre, at the top of Biskoman Bhawan — visiting the tallest tower is one of the best things to do in Patna. Here you’ll find the country’s largest revolving restaurant on the 18th floor. 

Featuring advanced German technology, this unique dining spot offers 45, 60, or 90-minute rotations, allowing guests to enjoy panoramic views of Patna while savoring their meal.

Dining in this unique restaurant is one of the best family-friendly activities in Patna with a beautiful view of the city’s stunning landscapes.

  • Timings:  12:00 AM – 10:30 PM
  • Price Per Two: ₹ 1000 – ₹ 2000
  • Must-Try Dish: Mutton Rogan Josh

6. Explore the Depths of Bihar’s Rich History and Culture in Bihar Museum

bihar-museum.

Just 2 km from Patna City Centre, exploring Bihar Museum’s rich history and cultural heritage is one of the best activities to do in Patna.  

Established to expand beyond the Patna Museum’s limitations, it features ancient artifacts, tribal art, and exhibits on Bihar’s past and present. 

The museum spans 5.6 hectares with 24,000 square meters of space, including galleries, educational facilities, and a striking lobby. A collaboration between Indian and Japanese firms, it stands as a key site for cultural preservation and education in Patna.

  • Timings: 10:30 AM – 05:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: Children: ₹ 50 ; Adults: ₹ 100 ;Foreigners: ₹ 500

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7.  Embark on a Great Journey Through the Cosmos in Patna Planetarium

patna-planetarium

Just 2 km from Patna City Centre, the Indira Gandhi Planetarium, also known as Patna Planetarium, is one of Asia’s oldest and largest planetarium. 

Often called “Taramandal” or “circle of stars,” visiting this place is one of the best things to do in Patna and offers an interesting astronomy experience. 

There is modern projection technology and a dome-shaped screen that displays the celestial sky. The planetarium features a chic auditorium with 276 seats and hosts film shows, exhibitions, and events. 

Visiting this planetarium is one of the best fun activities in Patna for tourists giving a blend of entertainment and educational experiences in Patna.

  • Timings: 10.00 AM – 05.00 PM; Monday Closed
  • Show timings:12.30 PM, 02:00 PM, 03:30 PM & 05:00 PM
  • Entry Fee:  ₹ 50 and  ₹ 10 per ticket permit for booking of Full Show by schools & educational institutions

8. Discover Where Art and History at Patna Museum

patna-museum

Just 1 km from Patna City Centre, the Patna Museum, also known as Jadu Ghar, is a historic gem established in 1917. Featuring over 50,000 rare artifacts, the museum showcases a rich collection of ancient, medieval, and colonial art. 

Highlights include the Holy Relic Casket with Lord Buddha’s ashes, the Yakshani statue, British-era paintings, and artifacts related to India’s first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad. 

Designed in Mughal and Rajput styles, visiting the Patna Museum is one of the top activities to do in Patna for history and art enthusiasts.

  • Timings: 10.30 AM – 04.30 PM
  • Entry Fee: Indian Tourists: 15,  Foreign Tourists: ₹  250

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9. Experience the Awesome Link Across the Ganges at Mahatma Gandhi Setu

mahatma-gandhi-setu

Located 6 km from Patna City Centre, Mahatma Gandhi Setu is a major landmark and the second longest river bridge in India, stretching 5.7 kilometers across the Ganges. 

Connecting Patna and Hajipur, this crucial bridge features four lanes and pedestrian pathways, offering spectacular views of the river. Originally with toll gates, now removed, the bridge is an important transport route and is set to be complemented by two new floating bridges to ease congestion. 

Visiting this Setu is one of the best outdoor activities in Patna for its engineering marvel and scenic views.

  • Timings: All time
  • Entry Fee: The toll fees depend on the GST and taxes decided by the government and the type of vehicle.

10. Find Serenity and Reflection in a Peaceful Buddha Smriti Udyan

buddha-smriti-park-main
Image source - Tripadvisor

Just 1 km from Patna City Centre, Buddha Smriti Udyan is a serene urban park established to commemorate Lord Buddha’s 2554th anniversary. 

Inaugurated in 2010 by the 14th Dalai Lama, the park spans 22 acres. This park features the Patliputra Karuna Stupa, saplings from Bodh Gaya and Anuradhapura, and a museum with Buddha’s relics and Buddhist artifacts. 

Popular for its peaceful walks, meditation spots, and occasional musical shows, visiting this park is one of the best outdoor activities in Patna.

  • Timings: 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: Park –  20;  Karuna Stupa –  50 ; Meditation Centre –  500 ; Museum –  40

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11. Explore the Sacred Abode of Maa Patneshwari at Patan Devi Mandir

patan-devi-mandir

Located 7 km from Patna City Centre, Maa Patneshwari Temple is one of the city’s oldest and most sacred sites. The temple holds great significance in Hinduism as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. 

It is believed to be the place where the right thigh of Devi Sati fell. It is also the origin of Patna’s name, making it an important spiritual destination for visitors. 

Immersing in the peaceful environment of this temple is one of the best cultural experiences in Patna.

  • Timings: Morning – 04:00 AM to 12:00 PM; Evening – 02:00 AM to 09:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: Free

12. Explore the Unearthed Heritage of the Historic Capital at Kumhrar (Ancient Pataliputra)

ancient-pataliputra

Located 5 km from Patna City Centre, Kumhrar is the site of ancient Pataliputra, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history. 

The excavation reveals significant ruins like the Assembly Hall, Anand Bihar, Arogya Vihar, and Durakhi Devi Temple, dating back to 600 BCE. 

Visiting this site which once served as the capital for rulers like Ajatshatru, Chandragupta, and Ashoka, is one of the best activities to do in Patna for history enthusiasts.

  • Timings: 10.00 AM to 04.00 PM
  • Entry Fee:  Indians –  ₹ 15; Foreigners – ₹ 200 

13. Explore the Legacy of Mahatma Gandhi at Gandhi Sangrahalaya

gandhi-sangrahalaya

Just 1 km from Patna City Centre, Gandhi Sangrahalaya is a dedicated museum showcasing Mahatma Gandhi’s life and legacy. As one of eleven such museums in India, it features a visual biography with pictures of key moments, along with documents, quotes, models, and memorabilia. 

Visitors can explore books and audio-visual materials that provide deep insights into Gandhi’s principles and his struggle for freedom is one of the best activities to do in Patna.

  • Timings: 10.00 am–01.00 pm;  02.00 pm – 05:45 pm
  • Entry Fee:  Free

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14. Enjoy Scenic Boat Rides and Serenity at River Ganga

river-ganga

Located 7 km from Patna City Centre, the River Ganga offers a serene boat ride experience near Gandhi Ghat. From October to March, you can enjoy stunning views of the river and its surroundings. 

The Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation provides motorboats on weekends, making it a perfect spot for fun activities in Patna for tourists.

Enjoying scenic boat rides and a beautiful view of Ganga is one of the best outdoor activities in Patna.

  • Timings: In Winter: Morning – 9:00 am to 12:00 pm; Evening – 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm, In Summer: Morning – 5:00 am to 11:00 am; Evening – 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
  • Boating Price:  8 seater boat – ₹ 200 per person, 4 seater boat – ₹ 250 per person , 2 seater High-Speed Boat – ₹ 500 per person

15. Dive into Fun with Thrilling Slides and Rides at Funtasia Island

funtasia-island

Located 8 km from Patna City Centre, Funtasia Water Park is Patna’s premier aquatic adventure destination. Enjoying this water park is one of the best family-friendly activities in Patna.

Spanning 5 acres, this water park offers exciting slides and rides for thrill-seekers of all ages. Built by Takshila Seas & Resorts Pvt. Ltd., it’s the perfect spot for a day of fun activities in Patna for tourists.

  • Timings: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm, Closed on Wednesday
  • Entry Fee:  Monday to Friday –  ₹ 350; Saturday and Sunday –  ₹ 450

16. Explore a Green Oasis and Zoo Sanjay Gandhi Botanical Garden

sanjay-gandhi-botanical-garden

Just 4 km from Patna City Centre, Sanjay Gandhi Botanical Garden, also known as Sanjay Gandhi Jaivik Udyan, is a must-visit for nature lovers. Exploring this garden is one of the best family-friendly activities in Patna.

Established in 1969, this lush garden doubles as a zoo, showcasing a diverse range of flora and fauna. 

Enjoying serene strolls, elephant rides, and a toy train, makes it an ideal spot for outdoor activities in Patna.

  • Timings: 08:00 am – 05:30 pm
  • Entry Fee: Adults – 30, Kids – 10

17. Discover the Richness of Persian and Arabic Manuscripts at Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library

khuda-bakhsh-oriental-library

Located 4 km from Patna City Centre, Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library is a top destination for history and book enthusiasts. 

Established in 1891, it has a vast collection of Mughal and Islamic manuscripts, including a unique 25 mm wide Quran. 

As one of India’s national libraries, it also houses historical artifacts like Nadir Shah’s sword. With nearly 250,000 books, it offers a rich exploration of knowledge and cultural heritage. 

Discovering the richness of Persian and Arabic Manuscripts at Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library is one of the best cultural experiences in Patna.

  • Timings: 08:00 am – 05:00 pm; Sunday Closed
  • Entry Fee: Free

18. Seek Divine Blessings at Mahavir Mandir

mahavir-mandir.

Just 1 km from Patna City Centre, Mahavir Mandir is the second largest Hanuman shrine in North India, attracting thousands of devotees daily. 

Located near Patna Railway Station, this “Manokamna Temple” is renowned for its high earnings and extensive facilities, including shops and a palmistry center. 

During festivals like Ramnavami, the temple is especially crowded, and visitors should not miss the famous “Naivedyam,” a special prasadam prepared by Tirupati experts. 

Visiting this temple with family and friends for peace is one of the best family-friendly activities in Patna.

  • Timings: 05:30 am – 10:30 pm; 
  • Entry Fee: Free

19. Discover Bihar’s Artistic Heritage in Maurya Lok at Bihar Emporium

bihar-emporium.

Located in the Maurya Lok Shopping Complex, Bihar Emporium is a must-visit for art lovers. This government-run store features authentic Madhubani paintings, known for their vibrant colors and intricate designs. 

Offering fair prices and guaranteed authenticity, exploring local culture, and finding unique Indian art in this Emporium is one of the best cultural experiences in Patna.

  • Timings: 10:00 am – 07:30 pm; 
  • Entry Fee: Free

 20. End Your Day with a Spectacular Sunset View at Sunset Point

sunset-point.

Just 8 km from Patna City Centre, Sunset Point is a must-visit for breathtaking sunset views. 

Watching the sky change to vibrant colors of orange, pink, and purple as the sun sets below the horizon is one of the best family-friendly activities in Patna.

It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the evening sky, popular with both locals and visitors.

  • Timing: Evening Time
  • Entry Fees: Free

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Conclusion

Hence, Patna, with its rich history, culture, and natural beauty, offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. From exploring ancient ruins and sacred temples to enjoying serene boat rides and vibrant local markets, there are many things to do in Patna.

Whether you’re delving into the depths of historical sites like Kumhrar and Patna Museum, enjoying the peaceful beauty of Buddha Smriti Udyan, or soaking in the panoramic views from landmarks like Golghar and the River Ganga, things to do in Patna promises a memorable journey. 

So, immerse yourself in the city’s heritage, embrace its scenic charm, and create unforgettable moments in this dynamic and historic destination.

What are the top attractions to visit in Patna?

 Patna, the capital of Bihar, has several attractions that reflect its rich history and cultural heritage. Here are some of the top places to visit – Golghar, Patna Museum, Buddha Smriti Park, Mahavir Mandir, Gandhi Maidan, Patna Sahib Gurudwara, Kumhrar, Sanjay Gandhi Jaivik Udyan, Moinul Haq Stadium. These attractions provide a glimpse into Patna’s historical significance and cultural diversity.

Which historical sites are a must-see in Patna?

Patna, with its rich historical tapestry, offers several significant historical sites. Here are some must-see locations that highlight the city’s ancient heritage – Kumhrar, Patna Museum, Golghar, Gandhi Maidan, Gandhi Sangrahalaya, and Bihar Museum. These sites offer a comprehensive view of Patna’s historical evolution, from ancient Mauryan times through the Mughal period and into the colonial era.

Are there any family-friendly activities to do in Patna?

 Certainly! Patna offers several family-friendly activities that can be enjoyable for all ages. Here are some great options – Enjoying a meal at Revolving Restaurant, Having fun at Funtasia Island, Exploring the Sanjay Gandhi Botanical Garden, Seeking Blessings at Mahavir Mandir, and Enjoying the Sunset View at Sunset Point. These activities offer a mix of education, recreation, and relaxation.

What outdoor activities are available in Patna?

There are several outdoor activities in Patna that cater to various interests. Here’s a list of outdoor activities you can enjoy in and around Patna – Experience Mahatma Gandhi Setu, Find Peace at Buddha Smriti Udyan, Enjoy Scenic Boat Rides and Serenity at River Ganga.

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