Travel Safely & Travel Tips & Important Contacts in Patna

Patna
Posted on | by Anuj

Here’s a comprehensive guide with essential travel tips, safety guidelines, and important contacts for anyone visiting Patna, Bihar. This information will ensure a safe, smooth, and enjoyable visit to the city.

Travel Safely in Patna

  1. Transport Safety
    • Public Transport: While Patna has various public transportation options, including buses, auto-rickshaws, and cycle-rickshaws, it is recommended to use Ola or Uber for safer, more reliable travel.
    • Rickshaws & Taxis: Always agree on the fare beforehand or ensure the meter is used.
    • Local Trains: For intercity travel, ensure you book your tickets in advance via IRCTC and avoid traveling during peak hours to avoid crowded conditions.
  2. Street Safety
    • Patna’s streets can get crowded, especially in markets like Patna Market and Maurya Lok Complex. Keep your belongings close and avoid displaying valuables in busy areas.
    • If walking around at night, always stay in well-lit and populated areas. Use reliable transport like taxis or ride-hailing services after dark.
  3. Stay Hydrated & Eat Safely
    • Patna’s climate can be humid and hot, particularly during summer months (March-June). Carry a water bottle at all times and avoid drinking tap water; prefer bottled or purified water.
    • For food, try local delicacies like Litti Chokha, but ensure you eat from reputable and clean eateries. Street food should be consumed with caution.
  4. Health & Medical Precautions
    • Vaccinations: Make sure you are up to date on routine vaccinations like Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid before visiting Patna.
    • Avoid Mosquito Bites: Carry insect repellent and wear protective clothing, especially in the evening, to avoid dengue and malaria.
    • Carry basic medications for common ailments like headache, stomach upsets, and colds. It’s also advisable to have a first-aid kit with you.
  5. Cultural Sensitivity
    • Patna is a religiously diverse city with deep-rooted traditions. When visiting religious sites like Patna Sahib Gurudwara or Mahavir Mandir, dress modestly and behave respectfully.
    • Bargaining is common in local markets, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices, but always do it politely.

Top Travel Tips for New Visitors

  1. Know the Best Time to Visit Patna
    • The best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable. Summer (April to June) can be extremely hot, while the monsoon (July to September) can bring heavy rains and occasional flooding.
  2. Stay Connected
    • SIM Cards: If you’re a foreign tourist, you can easily get a local SIM card from major telecom providers like Airtel or Jio at Patna’s main railway station or airports.
    • Internet: Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Public Wi-Fi in Patna may not always be reliable, so having your own data plan is recommended.
  3. Language
    • Hindi and Bhojpuri are widely spoken in Patna. English is commonly understood in hotels and high-end establishments. It’s a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Hindi or Bhojpuri to interact with locals.
  4. Money Matters
    • ATMs are available across the city, but it’s always advisable to carry some cash as small vendors or rural areas may not accept cards.
    • Currency Exchange: Exchange currency at banks or authorized currency exchange counters for better rates.
  5. Emergency Services & Local Etiquette
    • Always remember to keep an emergency contact list handy, including the number for local police and ambulance services.
    • Personal Safety: Always trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in any situation, avoid the place or person, and contact your hotel or guide.

Important Emergency Contacts in Patna

  1. Police Helpline (Patna):
    • Dial 100 for emergency police services.
  2. Ambulance Services:
    • Dial 102 for ambulance and emergency medical services.
  3. Fire Services:
    • Dial 101 for fire emergencies.
  4. Hospitals in Patna:
    • Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (IGIMS)
      Phone: +91 612 229 7641
    • Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH)
      Phone: +91 612 267 7394
    • Paras HMRI Hospital
      Phone: +91 612 710 9191
    • Ruby Memorial Hospital
      Phone: +91 612 220 2777
  5. Pharmacies:
    • MedPlus Pharmacy: Multiple locations in Patna. They offer 24/7 service for emergency medical supplies.
    • Apollo Pharmacy: Known for medical convenience and quick services in Patna.
    • Health & Glow: Reliable for getting quick medical supplies in Patna.
  6. Traffic Helpline:
    • Dial 1073 for assistance with traffic-related issues or inquiries.
  7. Tourist Assistance:
    • Tourist Police Patna:
      Phone: +91 612 222 1144 (For any issues related to tourism)
  8. Post Offices & Banks:
    • India Post:
      For postal services, you can visit any of the branches, including Patna GPO.
    • Banking Services: Major branches of SBI, HDFC, and ICICI are spread throughout the city.

Accommodation Options in Patna

  1. Luxury Hotels:
    • Patna Marriott Hotel: 6, Mahatma Gandhi Setu Road, Patna. Great for international travelers.
    • The Panache Patna: Rajbansi Nagar, Patna. Excellent facilities and central location.
  2. Mid-Range Hotels:
    • Hotel Patliputra Continental: 2, Sardar Patel Path, Patna. Offers great comfort at affordable prices.
    • Hotel Chanakya Patna: Near Gandhi Maidan, Patna. Known for its service and accessibility.
  3. Budget Hotels:
    • Hotel Relax: Near Patna Junction. Affordable with decent amenities.
    • OYO Rooms: Various locations in Patna offer affordable stays with good customer service.
  4. Hostels:
    • Zostel Patna: Located near Patna Junction, ideal for budget travelers.
    • Patna Youth Hostel: Located in the heart of Patna for a fun and social experience.

Useful Contact Numbers for Tourists

  1. Tourist Information Centre:
    Phone: +91 612 222 1899
    Location: Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation, Patna, Bihar.
  2. Taxi & Ride-Hailing Services:
    • Ola: Download the app for easy ride-booking.
    • Uber: Also widely available for comfortable rides.
    • Local Taxi Services: Ask your hotel for recommendations.
  3. Travel Agencies & Tour Operators:
    • Magadh Tour & Travels: +91 612 221 2121
    • Maa Shanti Travels: +91 612 220 2298

Famous Tourist Sites in Patna

  • Patna Sahib Gurudwara: Sacred site for Sikhs, where Guru Gobind Singh was born.
  • Mahavir Mandir: Famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
  • Golghar: Historical granary with panoramic views of the city.
  • Patna Museum: Houses significant historical artifacts.
  • Buddha Smriti Park: A peaceful park with a statue of Lord Buddha.

With this guide, you’ll have all the essential details needed to travel safely and make the most out of your visit to Patna. From safety tips to essential contact numbers, this guide ensures a worry-free experience in the city!