Temples in Patna
Patna is holy to Sikhs as the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, and to Hindus for its Hanuman temple and Shakti shrine. The old city also has a 17th-century mosque and the oldest church in Bihar.
Takht Sri Patna Sahib
The Takht Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib, in Patna City, marks the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. It is one of the five Takhts, the seats of authority in Sikhism. The white marble building stands on the site of the house where he was born in 1666, and a small museum inside holds relics linked to him. Everyone is welcome. Cover your head, take off your shoes, wash your feet at the entrance, and do not bring tobacco or alcohol. The langar serves free meals to all. See the Patna Sahib page for more.
Mahavir Mandir
This Hanuman temple stands right outside Patna Junction and is one of the busiest temples in North India. It is known for its naivedyam laddu, a ghee-rich boondi laddu inspired by the Tirupati prasad. Tuesdays and Saturdays bring long queues, and Ram Navami brings lakhs of people in a single day. See the Mahavir Mandir page.
Patan Devi
Badi Patan Devi and Chhoti Patan Devi, in Patna City, are old shrines to the goddess. Many devotees count Badi Patan Devi among the Shakti peethas, and the city may take its name from her. They are busiest during Navratri.
Other Sikh shrines
Gurdwara Bal Leela, near the Takht, is linked to the Guru's childhood. Gurdwara Gai Ghat, by the river, is linked to Guru Nanak's visit to Patna. Many pilgrims visit all three on the same morning.
A mosque and a church
Patthar ki Masjid, a stone mosque on the riverbank in the old city, dates from the early 17th century and is still in use. Padri ki Haveli, the Catholic church of St Mary's, dates from the 18th century and is the oldest church in Bihar. Both are open to respectful visitors outside prayer and service times.
Etiquette
- Dress modestly and carry a scarf.
- Ask before photographing inside any shrine.
- Leave bags and phones at the counters where asked.
- Festival days change everything: check dates before you plan a quiet visit.
Questions
Patna — FAQ
Can non-Sikhs visit Takht Sri Patna Sahib?
Yes. The gurdwara is open to everyone. Cover your head, remove your shoes, wash your feet and hands, and do not carry tobacco or alcohol.
When is Mahavir Mandir least crowded?
Weekday mornings other than Tuesday are usually calmest. Tuesdays, Saturdays and Ram Navami bring very long queues.
Is Patan Devi a Shakti peetha?
Many devotees consider Badi Patan Devi one of the Shakti peethas. Both Badi and Chhoti Patan Devi, in Patna City, are busiest during Navratri.
When is Guru Gobind Singh's Prakash Parv celebrated in Patna?
Usually in late December or early January, on a date set by the lunar calendar. It brings thousands of pilgrims, a large procession and several days of celebrations at the Takht.