Ideal Destinations from Patna Perfect for Short Excursions
The capital of Bihar, Patna, boasts a wealth of culture and heritage, while also acting as a convenient gateway to numerous short excursion locations. Within just a few hours' drive from the city, you can find many great destinations to explore. These getaways are perfect for weekend escapes or quick refreshers that break the monotony of regular life. From the serene ghats of Rajgir and the sacred vibes of Bodh Gaya to the natural beauty of Valmiki Tiger Reserve and the architectural wonders of Nalanda, each destination offers something unique for every kind of traveler. These places are well-connected by road and rail, making travel hassle-free and enjoyable. With rich stories, scenic landscapes, and a mix of adventure and serenity, these nearby gems around Patna provide the perfect backdrop for short but fulfilling trips. Whether you’re traveling solo, planning a family weekend, or looking for a spiritual retreat, these nearby destinations promise enriching experiences without the need for long journeys. In this blog, we’ll guide you through some of the best short excursion options from Patna that are worth exploring for a memorable mini getaway.
Gaya (102 km) - Gaya, located along the banks of the Phalgu River, holds immense religious significance for followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Revered as a sacred site, the city draws pilgrims and spiritual seekers from around the world. Its ancient temples, rituals, and serene atmosphere make it a compelling destination for those eager to connect with their faith and explore India’s spiritual legacy.
Tourist Attractions: • Mahabodhi Temple • Bodhi Tree • Vishnupad Temple • Tibetan Monastery • Barabar Caves • Mangla Gauri Temple
Valmiki Tiger Reserve (290 km) - Situated near the Indo-Nepal border, the Valmiki national park or Valmiki Tiger Reserve is a sanctuary for wildlife located in Bihar's West Champaran district. This reserve hosts a diverse range of species, including Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and numerous bird varieties. Its scenic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and peaceful surroundings make it a hidden gem for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Jeep safaris are conducted in morning and evening time slots that take the visitors deep inside the forest of the Valmiki Tiger Reserve.
Madhubani (173 km) - Madhubani, a quaint town in Bihar, has earned international acclaim thanks to its unique artistic heritage. It is renowned worldwide for the traditional Madhubani paintings that originated here. Today, Madhubani continues to thrive as a hub of cultural and artistic expression, with its iconic art gaining recognition and appreciation both in India and worldwide.
Tourist Attractions: • Kapileshwar Sthan • Bhawanipur Village • Madhubani Painting Village • Somnath Mahadev Temple • Naulakha Palace
Varanasi (270 km) - The historic city of Varanasi lies on the northern banks of the sacred Ganges River, bordered by its two tributaries - Varuna and Assi, which together lend the city its name. Varanasi is celebrated for its deep-rooted cultural traditions, including its classical music and dance schools. The city is equally famous for its exquisite Banarasi sarees, known for their intricate craftsmanship. It also boasts a rich legacy in Hindi and Sanskrit literature. And no mention of Varanasi would be complete without the legendary Banarasi Paan, a cultural symbol in itself.
Tourist Attractions: • Kashi Vishwanath Temple • Bharat Mata Temple • Ramnagar Fort • Sarnath • Ghats - Assi, Manikarnika, Dashashwamedh, Adi Keshav, Panch Ganga, and a few more.
Prayagraj (380 km) - Prayagraj, often referred to as the City of Offerings, is one of India’s oldest and most revered pilgrimage sites. This remarkable city holds significant cultural and spiritual importance and is a popular destination for travelers. It is also known as the City of Prime Ministers, as many prominent Indian leaders have their roots here.
Tourist Attractions: • Triveni Sangam • Shankar Viman Mandapam • Allahabad Museum • Khusro Bagh • Lalita Devi Mandir
Ayodhya (430 km) - Situated along the sacred River Sarayu in Uttar Pradesh, Ayodhya is among the seven holiest cities in Hinduism. Once called Saketa in ancient times, it served as the capital of the historic Kosala kingdom. The city holds great religious significance as the birthplace of Lord Rama, a central figure in the Hindu epic Ramayana. Ayodhya is also revered in Jainism, being the birthplace of five out of the twenty-four Tirthankaras, including Adinath.
Tourist Attractions: • Ram Janmabhoomi Temple • Hanuman Garhi • Kanak Bhawan • Ram ki Paidi • Nageshwarnath Temple