Unveiling Patna : A Fascinating Blend Of The Ancient Treasures
Lying on the south bank of the Ganges River, Patna is the capital of Bihar, India-a treasure trove of history, culture, and spirituality. Much bypassed by its more iconic siblings, Patna boasts a rich heritage that traces back several thousand years. From ancient archaeological sites to pulsating festivals, every traveler will find something to take home from this bustling metropolis.
Unraveling the Historical Marvels
Patna represents a very ancient history, as its origin is closely linked with the rise and fall of various dynasties. One iconic landmark commanding great views over the city and the Ganges River is a huge granary built by the British during the 18th century. It stands tall and offers panoramic views of the city and the Ganges River.
The Patna Museum is another site that should make the list, as it consists of an amazing collection of artifacts across many centuries. Starting with the Mauryan and Gupta sculptures to Mughal paintings, this museum would give a sneak peek at the rich cultural heritage of the place.
Demystifying Spiritual Splendor
Patna forms one of the most important pilgrimage destinations for both Hindus and Buddhists alike. The Mahavir Mandir is devoted to the 24th Jain Tirthankara, Lord Mahavir, and receives many thousands of visitors daily. The striking architecture, serenity of the temple creates a relentless pursuit for spiritual seekers in quest of eternal bliss.
Embracing Cultural Diversity
Participation in any of the festivals of Patna can be a great way of soaking into the real culture of Patna. Chhath Puja, one of such festivals celebrated with utmost vigor and enthusiasm by the residents of this city, is hosted in honor of the Sun God. People here gather on the banks of the Ganges to offer their prayers and an offering to the sun during this festival.
This is a place that any tourist who has an interest in traditional arts and crafts should visit. The Gurudwara was constructed to commemorate the birth site of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. Besides being a place of worship, it is also a hub of cultural activity.
Enjoying Cuisine
No food tour of Patna will be complete without savoring its mouth-watering delicacies. Be it a mouth-watering litti chokha, an age-old traditional Bihari dish made with roasted wheat balls and mashed vegetables, or sattu paratha and khaja, this city has something different in store for every food lover. If you are looking forward to devouring some traditional Bihari sweets, then immediately head towards Khaja Ghar or Anand Bhojnalaya, where you will be served delicacies like peda and khaja along with an iconic chhena murki.
Accommodation: Patna has a wide range of accommodation options including budget hotels, mid-range hotels, and luxury hotels. Budget options may start from around Rs.1,000-1,700 per night, mid-range hotels may range from Rs.2,200-7,800 per night, while luxury hotels may range from Rs.8,000-12,000 per night.
Nearest Mode of Travel: Patna is well-connected by air, rail, and road. It has its own airport, railway station, and bus terminals. You can reach Patna by flight, train, or bus from various cities across India.
From Bodhgaya: Approximately 110 kilometers, taking around 2-3 hours by road.
From Varanasi: Approximately 250 kilometers, taking around 5-6 hours by road.
From Kolkata: Approximately 550 kilometers, taking around 10-12 hours by road.
Patna has it’s own railway station and an airport.
Though Patna is not a hot-selling destination on every traveler’s wish list, the chosen few who take the pain of unraveling the hidden treasures are surely rewarded with a voyage of history, spiritualism, and culture. So, pack your bags, start an adventure, and unravel the secrets of this enchanting city along the banks of the mighty Ganges.
