Patna is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Bihar. It is located in the northeastern part of India, along the southern bank of the Ganges River. Patna is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a rich history dating back over two millennia. It serves as an important cultural, historical, political, and economic center in the region and is known for its historical landmarks, educational institutions, and vibrant culture.
Month Wise climate of Patna
Patna experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by distinct seasons throughout the year. Here are the key features of Patna’s climate:
- Summer (March to June): Summers in Patna are hot and dry. Daytime temperatures often soar above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), and the city can experience heatwaves during this period. It’s the hottest time of the year.
- Monsoon (July to September): Patna experiences a monsoon season with heavy rainfall. The southwest monsoon brings significant precipitation, and the city receives a substantial amount of rain during these months. Monsoon showers are crucial for agriculture in the region.
- Post-Monsoon (October to November): After the monsoon season, the weather gradually becomes cooler and drier. Temperatures start to drop, and the climate becomes more pleasant.
- Winter (December to February): Winters in Patna are relatively mild and dry. Daytime temperatures typically range from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius (50 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). Nights can be cooler, with temperatures sometimes dropping to single digits.
Overall, Patna’s climate is characterized by hot and dry summers, a monsoon season with heavy rainfall, and mild winters. The best time to visit Patna for pleasant weather is during the post-monsoon and winter months, from October to February. The summer months can be extremely hot, while the monsoon season may have heavy rainfall and occasional flooding.
Who were the early inhabitants of Patna?
The history of Patna, like many other ancient Indian cities, is marked by the presence of indigenous and diverse communities over the centuries. The region around Patna has a rich history of human habitation dating back thousands of years. The early inhabitants of Patna and its surrounding regions were primarily indigenous people and tribal groups, as well as those associated with various empires and dynasties. Here are some of the early inhabitants:
- Magadh Region: The area that is now Patna was historically a part of the Magadh region, which has a long history of settlement. It was home to various indigenous communities and tribes.
- Maurya Empire: Patna was a prominent city during the Mauryan Empire, one of the most powerful empires in ancient India. The Mauryan capital, Pataliputra (present-day Patna), was located here. People from different parts of the empire and various regions inhabited the city during this period.
- Gupta Empire: The Gupta Empire, which followed the Mauryas, also had an influence on the region, and Patna continued to be a significant center during this time.
- Mughal Empire: The Mughals, under Emperor Akbar, established a fort and a provincial capital in Patna. This period saw the city’s growth and development.
- British Colonial Period: During the British colonial period, Patna remained an important administrative and trading center. The city attracted people from various parts of India, leading to cultural diversity.
- Various Indigenous and Tribal Communities: The region around Patna also had smaller indigenous and tribal communities with their own distinct languages, customs, and traditions.
Over time, Patna evolved and witnessed the rise and fall of various dynasties and empires, each leaving its mark on the city’s culture and history. Today, Patna is a bustling metropolis with a blend of historical heritage and modern influences, and it continues to be a center of cultural and political significance in the state of Bihar.
List of famous schools and colleges in Patna
Patna, the capital city of the Indian state of Bihar, is home to several well-known schools, colleges, and universities that offer a wide range of educational programs. Here are some of the famous educational institutions in Patna:
List of Schools in Patna
- St. Michael’s High School, Patna: St. Michael’s is one of the most prestigious and oldest schools in Patna, known for its academic excellence and holistic development of students.
- Notre Dame Academy, Patna: This all-girls’ school is renowned for its quality education and has a long history of educational service.
- Patna Collegiate School: Established in the 19th century, Patna Collegiate School is one of the oldest and most respected schools in the city.
- Delhi Public School (DPS), Patna: DPS Patna follows the CBSE curriculum and is known for its academic standards and extracurricular activities.
- Baldwin Academy: This co-educational school is known for its rigorous academic programs and sports facilities.
Colleges and Universities in Patna
- Patna University: Patna University is one of the oldest universities in India and offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs.
- Nalanda Open University: This open university provides distance education programs and is known for its flexibility in higher education.
- National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Patna: NIFT Patna offers courses related to fashion and design.
- Chanakya National Law University (CNLU), Patna: CNLU is a prominent law university known for its legal education programs.
- Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Patna: IIT Patna is one of the premier engineering institutes in India, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various engineering disciplines.
- Patna Medical College: Patna Medical College is a renowned medical institution that offers undergraduate and postgraduate medical programs.
- Bihar College of Pharmacy: This college offers courses in pharmaceutical sciences and is known for its pharmacy programs.
- Patna Science College: Patna Science College is one of the leading institutions for undergraduate and postgraduate programs in science.
- Magadh Mahila College: This women’s college in Patna offers a variety of undergraduate courses in arts, commerce, and science.
These are some of the prominent educational institutions in Patna, catering to a wide range of academic disciplines and interests. Patna has a rich educational history and continues to be a hub for higher education in the state of Bihar.
Top places to visit in Patna
Patna, the capital city of Bihar, is a historically rich and culturally diverse city with several interesting places to visit. Here are some of the top attractions and places to visit in Patna:
- Golghar: This iconic granary built during British rule offers panoramic views of the city from its top. Visitors can climb to the viewing deck for stunning vistas of Patna and the Ganges River.
- Patna Sahib (Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib): This revered Sikh shrine is one of the holiest places for Sikhs and attracts devotees from around the world. It is associated with Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru.
- Kumhrar: This archaeological site contains the remains of the ancient city of Pataliputra, dating back to the Mauryan period. Visitors can explore excavated ruins and learn about the history of the city.
- Agam Kuan: Known as the “Unfathomable Well,” Agam Kuan is an ancient well with historical and mythological significance. It is believed to be more than 2,000 years old.
- Patna Museum: Also known as the Bihar Museum, it houses an impressive collection of artifacts, sculptures, and artwork representing the rich cultural heritage of Bihar.
- Mahavir Mandir: This temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman is one of the most visited religious sites in Patna. It attracts devotees from all over the country.
- Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park (Patna Zoo): A popular destination for families, this zoo houses a variety of animals and birds in a natural setting.
- Sri Krishna Science Centre: An interactive science museum with engaging exhibits and educational displays.
- Buddha Smriti Park: This peaceful park commemorates the life of Lord Buddha and features a meditation hall, museum, and the World Peace Pagoda.
- Jalan Museum: A private museum displaying an impressive collection of antique and historical artifacts, including coins, art, and manuscripts.
- Eco Park: A well-maintained park with walking trails, boating facilities, and lush greenery, offering a pleasant escape from the city.
- Padri Ki Haveli: Also known as St. Mary’s Church, this historic church is one of the oldest in Bihar and showcases Gothic architecture.
- Patna Planetarium: This planetarium offers educational shows and is a great place for those interested in astronomy and space.
- Gandhi Maidan: A large public park and gathering place where various events and exhibitions take place.
- Phulwari Sharif: Visit this Sufi shrine and mosque complex, which is a significant religious site in Patna.
These are just some of the top places to visit in Patna, and the city has much more to offer in terms of history, culture, and spirituality. Patna’s rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere make it a fascinating destination for travelers interested in exploring the heart of Bihar.
FAQs on Patna, Bihar
Why is Patna famous?
Patna is famous for several reasons, including its religious significance, historical monuments, and cultural heritage. It is the capital city of Bihar and has a rich history dating back to ancient times.
What is the old capital of Bihar?
The old capital of Bihar was Pataliputra, which is also known as Palibothra. It was the capital during the time of the Vardhana dynasty.
Why is Bihar famous?
Bihar is famous for its rich history, cultural heritage, and religious significance. It is home to some of the oldest universities and Buddhist monasteries in India.
Is Patna a district or not?
Patna is a city in the Indian state of Bihar and serves as the capital of the state. It is not a district but a municipal corporation.