Getting from the Airport
The city is served by Jay Prakash Narayan Airport (PAT), which handles domestic flights. It offers direct connections to several major Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, among others. From the airport, you can reach the city center via various transport options.
Rail Travel
Patna is a major rail hub with multiple stations serving different routes and regions:
- Patna Junction: The primary railway station, serving several high-speed trains like the Vande Bharat and Rajdhani Express.
- Rajendra Nagar Terminal: Serves various eastern and western trains.
- Hajipur Junction: Located on the opposite side of the Ganges, this station serves trains from the Nepal border area as well as those coming from Delhi and Varanasi. Note that while it is relatively close to Patna Junction, traffic can make the trip between these two stations lengthy; shared rickshaws are available for travel between them.
- Patliputra Junction: An additional rail point serving the region.
Public Transportation: Buses and Shared Rickshaws
Several options exist for navigating the city's streets:
- Auto-rickshaws (Tempos): These are among the most common and affordable ways to travel locally. "Shared" tempos are a popular choice for residents; however, if you choose to hire a private auto-rickshaw, it is advisable to agree on the price beforehand to avoid being overcharged.
- Buses: Public buses operate on major routes both within the city and to neighboring regions. They are generally less expensive than shared rickshaws but may offer less comfort. Many of these buses originate from Gandhi Maidan and travel toward Patna Junction.
Metro and Future Infrastructure
The Patna Metro is currently under construction. As of late 2025, only a limited number of stations on the Blue Line are operational, providing a modern transit option in specific areas of the city.
Taxis and Private Cars
Car rental services are available within the city for those preferring private transport. However, visitors who are not accustomed to driving in India may find navigating local roads challenging due to heavy traffic and varying road conditions.
Walkability and Connectivity
While the city is a sprawling urban area, it is well-connected by major roads (National Highways 30, 31, and 19) which link Patna to other significant destinations in the region. For local movement, the combination of shared rickshaws and buses provides practical coverage for most main routes.