A cultural and historical beauty, Patna is located amidst myriad places of tourist importance. If you are looking to cover the city and places around it on a vacation or for fun weekend getaways from Patna, the city won’t disappoint you. With easy access to trains and buses and presence of great hotels in Patna and around it, you are in for a comfortable and enriching vacation.
For a trip through adventure, history and culture – take a look at the detailed list of Patna weekend getaways below:
Weekend Getaways from Patna:
1. Vaishali
Vaishali | #1 of 7 Best Weekend Getaways from Patna
A popular weekend getaway from Patna, Vaishali is a small historical town which is also considered to be the First Republic of the World. The birthplace of Lord Mahavir, the place gets its name from its erstwhile ruler Vishal as per the epic Mahabharata. An important pilgrimage site for Jains, this town is visited by tourists throughout the year. It is said that Lord Buddha delivered his last sermon and also spent a considerable time of his life here making it an important place to visit for Buddhist pilgrims too. Surrounded by banana plantations and rice fields, this dainty town is quite a beauty.
- Distance from Patna:3 km
- Best time to visit: September to February
- Must-visit: Ashoka Pillar, Ramchaura Temple
2. Rajgir
Rajgir | #2 of 7 Best Weekend Getaways from Patna
Rajgir is an unmissable place if you are looking to learn more about Buddhism and Jainism. With a rich historical past, this city’s architectural brilliance is something that needs to be seen. Once the seat of royals, today this place is a paradise for photographers and history buffs. Head here during the winter months to enjoy the barren beauty of the town. You can also spot the unique Cyclopean Walls which are almost 40 km long and were built during the Mauryan period.
- Distance from Patna: 95 km
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Must-visit: Vishwa Shanti Stupa, Ajatshatru Fort, Jain temples
3. Gaya
Gaya | #3 of 7 Best Weekend Getaways from Patna
Known world over as a sacred place for Hindus and people of the Buddhist faith, Gaya is a melting pot of cultures and traditional practices. It is significant primarily for Hindu pilgrims who visit the town to offer pind at Vishnupad Temple. It is believed that pind daan at the temple has the power to liberate the souls of the deceased from the cycle of life and death.
The chaotic town is also popular because of its proximity to Bodh Gaya, which is considered to be the site where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. From temples to caves to spiritual centres – the town is a mix of old-world charm and new-age spiritual practices.
- Distance from Patna: 120 km
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Must-visit: Mahabodhi temple, Giant Buddha, Dungeshwari Temple, Deo Sun Temple
4. Lakhisarai
Lakhisarai | #4 of 7 Best Weekend Getaways from Patna
An erstwhile religious and administrative centre for the Pal dynasty, Lakhisarai is today popular for the sacred Ashok Dhaam temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This highly revered temple is believed to fulfil all your wishes if you offer prayers here. Architecturally brilliant, the shrine is surrounded with immense natural beauty and takes you back in time with its laidback charm and serene vibe.
- Distance from Patna: 135 km
- Best time to visit: November to February
- Must-visit: Shringi Rishi Ashram
5. Hazaribagh
Hazaribagh | #5 of 7 Best Weekend Getaways from Patna
Located in Jharkhand, Hazaribagh is heaven for peace seekers owing to its abundant natural beauty and quiet charm. Home to the majestic Hazaribagh National Park and lush Canary Hills, the town is slowly becoming a nature retreat with health-focused resorts. A weekend here, in what was one of the most well-planned cities during the British era, will give you the much-needed break you seek.
- Distance from Patna: 230 km
- Best time to visit: November to February
- Must-visit: Hazaribagh Lake, Rajrappa Temple
6. Madhubani
Madhubani | #6 of 7 Best Weekend Getaways from Patna
Known world over for its art of painting, spinning and weaving, the district of Madhubani is surely a paradise for art lovers. But art is not the only thing this district is famous for; its rich history and archaeological importance also draws a number of tourists. Among the best things to do here, you must visit the art corners where women meet to create stunning masterpieces.
- Distance from Patna: 170 km
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Must-visit: Kapileshwar Temple, Somnath Mahadev Temple
7. Kathmandu
Kathmandu | #7 of 7 Best Weekend Getaways from Patna
Imagine travelling to another country for a weekend… The close proximity of Kathmandu to Patna makes it an ideal weekend getaway, and the best part is that one doesn’t need a passport. You can travel to Kathmandu on any valid ID including driving license. A bustling city, Kathmandu is known for its plethora of architectural marvels, majestic temples and amazing natural beauty. A shopper’s paradise, Kathmandu also lets you take back home a piece of Nepalese art and handicrafts.
- Distance from Patna: 350 km
- Best time to visit: October to February
- Must-visit: Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu Durbar Square, Thamel
