How to Reach Patna from Haridwar

Patna, the historic capital of Bihar, is a bustling city known for its ancient heritage and modern developments. Traveling from the holy city of Haridwar to Patna involves a considerable journey across Northern India. While flying offers the fastest route, trains provide a comfortable and often more economical option for this long distance.

Distance Between Haridwar and Patna

The approximate distance between Haridwar and Patna depends on your mode of transport:

• By Air (via Dehradun Airport): The aerial distance between Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun, the closest to Haridwar) and Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport (Patna) is around 839-860 kilometers.
• By Train: Approximately 1,000-1,050 kilometers.
• By Road: Around 1,230-1,330 kilometers.

How to Reach Patna from Haridwar

Here’s a breakdown of the different ways to travel:

1. By Air (Fastest and Most Convenient Option)

This is the quickest way to cover the long distance between Haridwar and Patna, involving a short road trip followed by a flight.

• Steps:
  1. Haridwar to Dehradun Airport (Jolly Grant Airport – DED): You’ll start by taking a taxi from Haridwar to Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. This road journey covers about 37-41 km and usually takes around 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes. Taxi fares typically range from ₹1,250 to ₹2,800 depending on the vehicle type.
  2. Dehradun (DED) to Patna (Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport – PAT): From Dehradun, you can catch a flight to Patna.
     • Flight Duration: There are currently no direct flights from Dehradun to Patna. All flights involve at least one stop, usually in New Delhi. Connecting flights typically take anywhere from 3 hours 40 minutes to over 9 hours, depending on the layover duration.
     • Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet are major airlines operating connecting flights on this route.
     • Ticket Price Estimates: One-way flight fares can vary significantly based on how far in advance you book, the airline, and demand. As of July 2025, one-way fares can start from around ₹4,450 to ₹7,000, but prices can go higher during peak travel times or for last-minute bookings.
  3. Patna Airport (PAT) to Patna City: Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport (PAT) is located very close to the city center, about 5 km. You can easily find pre-paid taxis, app-based cabs (Ola/Uber), or auto-rickshaws to reach your final destination in Patna. Travel time can be 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Total Journey Time (approx.): The entire journey, including road travel to Dehradun airport, flight time with a layover, and transfer within Patna, can be completed in approximately 6 to 12 hours.
• Pros: Significantly reduces travel time compared to other modes. Offers comfort for a long journey.
• Cons: Generally the most expensive travel option. Requires transfers between different modes of transport and potential waiting times at airports. All flights are connecting, adding to travel time.
• Tips: Book your flights as early as possible to secure better prices. Be mindful of layover times when choosing your flight.

2. By Train (Popular and Economical Option)

Train travel is a very popular and cost-effective way to travel long distances in India, allowing you to relax and experience the journey.

• Journey Time: Direct trains from Haridwar to Patna (Patna Junction or Rajendra Nagar Patna) typically take between 17 hours 47 minutes and 21 hours.
• Train Stations:
  • From Haridwar: Haridwar Junction (HW) is the main station.
  • To Patna: Patna Junction (PNBE) and Rajendra Nagar Patna (RJPB) are major railway stations in Patna. Patliputra (PPTA) is another option, though some trains may require a change.
• Frequency: There are direct trains like the Kumbha Express (12370) and Upasana Express (12328) that run daily or on specific days of the week, connecting Haridwar to Patna. Some routes might involve changes in major junctions like Lucknow or Varanasi.
• Types of Trains: You can choose from various classes, including Sleeper (SL), AC 3-tier (3A), AC 2-tier (2A), and AC First Class (1A).
• Ticket Price Estimates: Fares can vary based on the class: from approximately ₹530-₹650 (Sleeper Class) to ₹1,270-₹3,300 (AC classes) or more, depending on the train type and class.
• Pros: Generally more economical than flying. Allows for comfortable overnight travel. You get to see various landscapes of India.
• Cons: Long journey duration. Tickets can be hard to get during peak seasons if not booked early.
• Tips: Check the Indian Railways (IRCTC) website or other popular travel platforms (like RailYatri, ConfirmTkt, MakeMyTrip) for the most up-to-date train schedules, availability, and fare options. Book well in advance, especially for AC classes.

3. By Road (Long and Challenging Drive)

Driving from Haridwar to Patna is a very long journey and is generally not recommended as the primary mode of travel unless you specifically enjoy extremely long road trips or are traveling with a group and multiple drivers.

• Distance: Approximately 1,230-1,330 kilometers.
• Journey Time: A continuous drive would take at least 18-22 hours, not including significant stops for food, rest, and sleep. It would realistically require at least one overnight stop.
• Routes: The common route involves driving south from Haridwar, connecting to major national highways towards Uttar Pradesh, and then heading east through cities like Lucknow, Varanasi, and eventually into Bihar to Patna. Using GPS navigation with real-time traffic updates is essential.
• Self-Drive:
  • Pros: Ultimate flexibility to stop anywhere and anytime. Can be cost-effective for a group if vehicle running costs are shared.
  • Cons: Extremely long and tiring drive. Requires multiple drivers. High fuel costs and numerous toll charges. Risk of fatigue.
• Hiring a Taxi/Cab:
  • Pros: Convenient as you don’t have to drive. Door-to-door service.
  • Cons: Very expensive due to the long distance and the need for the driver to return or be compensated for the return journey. Can be very tiring even as a passenger.
  • Price Estimates: A one-way private taxi could cost upwards of ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 or more, depending on the vehicle type and service provider.
• Tips: If choosing this option, plan your stops carefully, ensure you have multiple drivers, and factor in sufficient rest periods. Check road conditions and safety advisories for all states you will pass through.

4. By Bus (Least Recommended for Direct Journey)

Due to the significant distance, a direct bus service from Haridwar to Patna is usually not available or would be an exceptionally long and uncomfortable journey.

• Journey Time: If available, a direct bus could take 25-35 hours or even more. More commonly, you would need to take multiple buses with long layovers in major cities like Delhi, Lucknow, or Varanasi, making the journey fragmented and highly inconvenient.
• Operators & Types: Limited private operators might offer connecting services. Comfort levels would vary greatly.
• Pros: Potentially the most economical option if you piece together very cheap bus segments.
• Cons: Extremely long travel time. Very uncomfortable for such a long distance. Frequent stops and potential for significant delays. Not ideal for travelers with much luggage.
• Tips: This mode is generally not recommended for such a long journey due to the discomfort and time involved. Consider it only if other options are not feasible and you are prepared for a very long and challenging journey.

Given the distance, taking a train is often the most balanced option for comfort and cost-effectiveness. If time is your priority, flying (with a connecting flight) is the quickest way to reach Patna from Haridwar.