The rapidly developing capital of Bihar, Patna is a heaven for culture enthusiasts. There are several things to do in Patna, ranging from exploring its museums and relaxing in its urban parks to paying homage at temples. Then, there are several places near the city that you can head to on a short trip. The best thing about these is that not many people come here, so you can be assured of all the peace you want. Just before we forget, the area around Patna is steeped deep in history. So, with this in mind, we are going to tell you about some incredible forts near Patna you can explore with your family and friends.
Forts near Patna:
1. Buxar Fort, Patna
Buxar Fort | #1 of 5 Best Forts near Patna
Situated on the banks of the Ganga River, this is perhaps the oldest fort near Patna. Though the fort itself dates back to AD 1054, archaeological excavations carried out here between 1926 and 1927 unearthed Brahmi inscriptions, hinting that the area was inhabited in as far back as 3rd century AD. Even if you don’t find much to see here, you can still walk around without a whole lot of people to watch out for or head to the river bank for some relaxed moments.
- Location: Buxar (159 km from Patna)
- Timings: Open throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free entry
2. Munger Fort, Patna
Munger Fort | #2 of 5 Best Forts near Patna
Dating from the time of the Mamluk dynasty, which established the Delhi Sultanate, Munger Fort is a formidable structure. On one side is a 175-feet wide moat, whereas on the other is the Ganga River, crossable only via boats. To make matters worse for the enemy, the outer walls of the fort were made 12 feet thick, while the inner wall is further 4 feet thick! As if this wasn’t enough, the space between the two walls is filled with earth. Lal Darwaza, the main entrance of the fort, is a rather simple red and white structure with a small modern clock tower on top. The fortress is home to several tombs, the grand palace of Mughal prince, Shah Shuja, a temple and even the Bihar School of Yoga. Read also about weekend getaways from Patna
- Location: Munger (171 km from Patna)
- Timings: Open throughout the day
- Entry Fee: Free entry
3. Rohtasgarh Fort, Patna
Rohtasgarh Fort | #3 of 5 Best Forts near Patna
Located on the banks of the Son River stands a fort, no one knows anything about for sure! Its exact year(s) of construction isn’t known, though it is a well-agreed-upon fact that it dates from the 7th century AD. Several local communities lay claim on Rohtasgarh Fort, but none have been able to prove it. An inscription dated AD 1223 suggests that the fort was under the Khayaravala dynasty; it was taken over by Sher Shah Suri in AD 1539. The fort is entered through Hathiya Pol, a gateway with sculptures of elephants inside carved niches. Among the most notable structures here is Takhte Badshahi, the residence of Raja Man Singh of Amer. Apart from the palace, Ganesh Temple, Jama Masjid, Rohtasan Temple and Hanging House, which faces a 1500-feet deep moat (khai), are worth exploring.
- Location: Rohtas (220 km from Patna)
- Timings: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Entry Fee: Free entry
4. Ramnagar Fort, Patna
Ramnagar Fort | #4 of 5 Best Forts near Patna
Another fort on the banks of the Ganga, Ramnagar Fort is among the few in India where a royal family still lives (though their royalty has no legal sanctity anymore). Constructed primarily in the Mughal style in the mid-18th century, the fort presents a striking influence of European architecture. There is a small temple within the fort, which is said to have been visited by sage Ved Vyasa. However, the best part of the fort is the museum, which exhibits weapons including swords, guns and daggers, vintage cars, ornate hookahs, portraits, armoured matchlocks, astronomical clocks, musical instruments, palanquins, ivory work, bejewelled sedan chairs, jewellery, silver howdahs, silk costumes and furniture.
- Location: Varanasi (255 km from Patna)
- Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Entry Fee: ₹ 15 (adults); ₹ 10 (children)
5. Allahabad Fort, Patna
Allahabad Fort | #5 of 5 Best Forts near Patna
Built by Emperor Akbar in 1583, Allahabad Fort stands near Sangam (the confluence of the Yamuna and Ganga). The most significant places to visit within the fort are Patalpuri Temple, which is believed to have been visited by Prahalada and Lord Rama in different eras, and Akshayavat, a fig tree said to be indestructible. Other parts of the fort are not open to public as the entire area belongs to the Indian Army. However, you can still get a permit to visit the tree and temple, or you can admire it from outside on a boat.
- Location: Allahabad (371 km from Patna)
- Timings: NA
- Entry Fee: Free entry
Do check out our blog on some more amazing places to visit in Varanasi.
Now, you know how historically rich the area around Patna is? So, get out of your hotel in Patna and explore these wonderful places for a peek at India’s glorious past.
Wow!!! It seems a very beautiful place.Very nice information for traveler. I really loved reading your blog. Superb and Interesting post. Thank you for share beautiful and wonderful pictures.