Sacred Heritage
Patan Devi Temple
Patna, Bihar
State:Bihar
District:Patna
Quick Facts
Location
Patna
Presiding Deity
Goddess Patan Devi (Sati)
Architecture
Bengali Rekha deul style with Mauryan brickwork traces
Dynasty
Ancient (origin); Maurya and Gupta patronage
Timings
5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM daily. During Navaratri, the temple remains open continuously. Aarti timings: Mangala Aarti at 5:00 AM, Bhog Aarti at 12:00 PM, Sandhya Aarti at sunset.
Entry Fee
Free
Best Time
October to March offers the best weather in Patna. Navaratri (September-October) is the most significant time for worship. The Patan Devi Mela in March-April offers a vibrant cultural experience. Avoid visiting in peak summer (April-June) when temperatures exceed 40°C.
Overview
One of the 51 Shakti Peethas and the oldest surviving temple in Patna, believed to be where the right thigh of Goddess Sati fell.
History & Legacy
The temple's origins trace back to ancient times, with references found in the Puranas among the 51 Shakti Peethas. The current structure dates to the Gupta period (4th-6th century CE) with significant renovations during the Pala dynasty (8th-12th century). The temple was rebuilt in its present form during the 18th century under the patronage of local zamindars (landlords). Patna itself has a continuous history as a city dating back to 490 BCE when it was founded as Pataliputra by Ajatashatru. The temple survived the destructive sack of Pataliputra by various invaders and was rebuilt each time. During the Mughal period, the temple remained active under the patronage of Hindu officials serving in the Mughal administration of Bihar. The temple underwent major repairs in 1962 after cracks developed in the structure.
Mythology & Legends
“According to the Shakti Peetha legend from the Daksha Yagna story in the Puranas, King Daksha performed a grand yagna but did not invite his daughter Sati and her husband Shiva. Sati attended uninvited, and when Daksha insulted Shiva, she immolated herself in the sacrificial fire. Hearing this, a grieving Shiva carried Sati's body across the cosmos. Vishnu used his Sudarshana Chakra to dismember the body, and the parts fell at 51 locations across the Indian subcontinent, each becoming a Shakti Peetha. At Patan Devi, the right thigh of the goddess is believed to have fallen. Another local legend claims that the goddess manifesting here was worshipped by the Pandava prince Bhima during his exile to protect the region from demons.”
Architecture
The temple is built in a modified Bengali rekha deul style with clear traces of ancient Mauryan brickwork in the foundation. The main sanctum is a small square structure with a curved shikhara tower rising approximately 50 feet. The temple walls are painted in the traditional red and white color scheme common to Bengali and Bihari temples. The inner sanctum houses the black stone idol of the goddess on a silver-plated pedestal. The temple complex includes a small nat mandir (dance hall) with a tin roof, added in the 19th century. The outer walls feature Hindu floral motifs and geometric patterns in terracotta, a craft tradition that Bihar shared with Bengal. The shrine in Rajapur (Bari Patan) is a larger complex with a courtyard and a banyan tree under which a smaller shrine is located.
Religious & Cultural Significance
Patan Devi is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, the sacred sites where body parts of Goddess Sati fell after her self-immolation. The right thigh (Dakshina Jangha) is believed to have fallen here. The temple is also significant because the city of Patna derives its name from the goddess — 'Patan Devi' was corrupted to 'Patna' by European traders and administrators. The temple is part of the broader Shakti Peetha pilgrimage circuit and is visited alongside the nearby Vishnupad Temple in Gaya and other Bihar Shakti Peethas. The temple is considered the guardian deity (Gram Devi) of old Patna City, and local residents traditionally seek her blessings before starting any new venture.
Daily Rituals
Daily rituals follow the Shakta Tantric tradition. The temple opens at 5:00 AM with the Mangala Aarti. The main puja includes Abhishekam (ritual bath of the goddess) with Ganges water, milk, and curd, followed by Alankaram (decoration with flowers and jewelry) and Naivedyam (food offering). The Bhog Aarti is at 12:00 PM with offerings of rice, dal, vegetables, and sweets. The Sandhya Aarti at sunset is the most attended ritual of the day. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, special pujas are performed for devotees seeking relief from troubles. During Navaratri, the temple follows an elaborate ritual schedule with Chandi Path (recitation of Devi Mahatmya). Animal sacrifice, traditionally offered on Navami day, has been replaced by symbolic offerings of pumpkins and gourds in recent years.
Festivals & Celebrations
Navaratri (September-October) is the most important festival, celebrated over nine nights with special pujas, Chandi Homa, and cultural programs. The eighth day (Durga Ashtami) features the largest gathering of devotees. Kali Puja (October-November), coinciding with Diwali, is celebrated with night-long worship. The annual 'Patan Devi Mela' in the Hindu month of Chaitra (March-April) is a month-long fair featuring traditional music, folk performances, and food stalls. Durga Puja is celebrated with great enthusiasm, with temporary pandals set up around the temple. Makar Sankranti and Vasant Panchami are also observed.
Interesting Facts
One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, origin of Patna's city name, right thigh of Sati, oldest temple in Patna, dual-shrine complex in Patna City and Rajapur.
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
October to March offers the best weather in Patna. Navaratri (September-October) is the most significant time for worship. The Patan Devi Mela in March-April offers a vibrant cultural experience. Avoid visiting in peak summer (April-June) when temperatures exceed 40°C.
Temple Timings
5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM daily. During Navaratri, the temple remains open continuously. Aarti timings: Mangala Aarti at 5:00 AM, Bhog Aarti at 12:00 PM, Sandhya Aarti at sunset.
How to Reach & Visitor Tips
The temple is in the congested old Patna City area, best reached by auto-rickshaw from central Patna. The nearest railway station is Patna Sahib (2 km) and the main Patna Junction is 5 km away. The nearest airport is Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport (12 km). Parking is extremely limited — use public transport or hire an auto-rickshaw. Photography is restricted inside the sanctum. Modest attire covering shoulders and knees is required. Carry a small torch in the evening as the temple lanes can be poorly lit. Combine your visit with the nearby Mahavir Mandir and Takht Sri Patna Sahib for a comprehensive Patna pilgrimage circuit.
Nearby Attractions
The Patna Museum (4 km) houses a collection of Mauryan artifacts including the famous Didarganj Yakshi statue. Golghar (3 km) is a massive 18th-century granary with panoramic city views. Takht Sri Patna Sahib (5 km) is one of the five takhts of Sikhism, the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh. The Mahavir Mandir (3 km) is among the most visited Hanuman temples in North India. Kumhrar (6 km) preserves the excavated remains of ancient Pataliputra from the Mauryan period. Sanjay Gandhi Botanical Garden (8 km) offers a green respite. The Ganges riverfront at Digha Ghat (4 km) provides sunset boat rides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why is Patna named after Patan Devi?
A. The city of Patna derives its name from Patan Devi. The original settlement around the temple was known as 'Patan' or 'Patana,' and British administrators and European traders gradually anglicized this to 'Patna.' The goddess Patan Devi has been the tutelary deity of the region since ancient times.
Q. What body part of Sati fell at Patan Devi?
A. According to Shakti Peetha tradition, the right thigh (Dakshina Jangha) of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen at Patan Devi. The temple is classified as the 'Jangha Peetha' among the 51 Shakti Peethas.
Q. How many shrines does Patan Devi have?
A. Patan Devi has two shrines: the main temple in Patna City (known as Chhoti Patan Devi) and a larger shrine in Rajapur known as Bari Patan Devi. Both are considered part of the same Shakti Peetha, and pilgrims often visit both.
Q. What are the temple timings?
A. The temple is open from 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM daily. The evening aarti at sunset is the most popular time for worship. During Navaratri, the temple is open continuously.
Q. How can I reach Patan Devi Temple?
A. The temple is located in old Patna City, about 5 km from Patna Junction railway station. Auto-rickshaws are the most convenient transport. Patna is well-connected by rail to all major Indian cities. The nearest airport is Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport (12 km).
Did You Know?
- This temple is one of the oldest of its kind in India.
- This temple was built under the patronage of the Ancient (origin); Maurya and Gupta patronage dynasty, reflecting their architectural vision.
Related Temples
Same Pilgrimage
Kalighat Kali Temple
A major Shakti Peetha where the toes of Sati's right foot fell, serving as the spiritual heart of Kolkata.
Tarapith Temple Birbhum
A major center for Tantric worship dedicated to Goddess Tara, famous for the saint Bamakhyapa and its sacred cremation ground.
Bargabhima Temple Tamluk
An ancient 1,150-year-old temple where Sati's left ankle fell, blending Bengali 'at-chala' and Odia 'Kalinga' styles.
Vaishno Devi Temple
The Vaishno Devi Temple, a sacred cave shrine nestled in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, is one of India's most visited pilgrimage sites, where millions trek 12 km each year to seek blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi at the holy cave complex.
Dhari Devi Temple
A sacred Shakti temple on the banks of the Alaknanda River, considered the guardian deity of the Char Dham Yatra and famous for the idol that changes color three times daily.
Vishalakshi Temple
The Vishalakshi Temple, located in the narrow lanes of Mir Ghat near the Ganges in Varanasi, is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas where the earrings of Goddess Sati are believed to have fallen. Dedicated to the 'wide-eyed' goddess Vishalakshi, the temple is the first stop on the traditional Kashi Yatra pilgrimage circuit and is considered the consort shrine of the neighbouring Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Same State
Barabar Caves
The oldest surviving rock-cut chambers in India, excavated by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. The seven caves feature a mirror-like polish on granite walls that has never been replicated.
Mundeshwari Temple
Officially recognized as the oldest functional temple in India (108 AD), this architectural marvel on Pawra Hill features a unique octagonal plan and rare non-sacrificial 'Bali' rituals.
Vishnupad Temple
Famous for the 40cm footprint of Lord Vishnu imprinted on solid rock, a major center for Pinda Daan rituals.
Ahilya Asthan Temple
An ancient temple in Bihar dedicated to Ahilya, wife of Sage Gautama, believed to be the site where she was liberated from a curse by Lord Rama.
Mahabodhi Temple Complex
A UNESCO World Heritage site marking the location where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha.
Same Tradition
Dakshineshwar Kali Temple
A world-famous 19th-century temple complex on the Hooghly River, immortalized by its association with the saint Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.
Kalighat Kali Temple
A major Shakti Peetha where the toes of Sati's right foot fell, serving as the spiritual heart of Kolkata.
Hangseshwari Temple Bansberia
A unique temple with 13 lotus-bud towers, representing the human body's anatomy according to Yoga and Tantra.
Vaishno Devi Temple
The Vaishno Devi Temple, a sacred cave shrine nestled in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, is one of India's most visited pilgrimage sites, where millions trek 12 km each year to seek blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi at the holy cave complex.
Dhari Devi Temple
A sacred Shakti temple on the banks of the Alaknanda River, considered the guardian deity of the Char Dham Yatra and famous for the idol that changes color three times daily.
Kalkaji Temple
An ancient temple dedicated to Kalka Devi, believed to date back to the Satya Yuga, and highly crowded during Navratri.
Visiting as an International Traveller
India's temples are living traditions — not museums. Every temple has its own customs. This guide helps first-time visitors prepare with confidence and respect.
Foreign visitor information is being researched
Please verify with the official temple authority before planning your visit.
Entry Status
Foreign Visitors
Verify Before VisitingVisitor Information
Entry policies vary between temples. Most temples welcome visitors, while some may restrict access to specific areas, rituals, or the inner sanctum. Always verify the latest entry guidelines with the official temple authorities before your visit.
Dress Code
Modest clothing is expected at every Indian temple — a sign of respect, not a restriction. Think of it as dressing for a formal ceremony.
Shoulders covered
Knees covered
Shoes removed before entry
Head covering (women)
Rain gear available
Warm layers (winter)
A scarf is always useful — it covers shoulders, works as a head covering, and can double as a makeshift face cover if needed.
Temple Etiquette
Remove footwearShoes and sandals are left outside. Socks are usually fine. Most temples provide free shoe storage.
Silence phonesSwitch to silent or vibrate before entering. Phone calls inside the temple are considered disrespectful.
Queue patientlyDarshan queues can be long — sometimes hours at major temples. Wait your turn calmly. No pushing or cutting.
No touching idolsUnless a priest explicitly invites you, never touch the deities. This is considered a serious breach of respect.
No flash photographyFlash disturbs the sacred atmosphere. Some temples ban all cameras inside the inner sanctum.
No smoking or alcoholTemple premises are strictly smoke-free and alcohol-free. This includes e-cigarettes.
Receive prasadam respectfullyAccept with both hands or right hand. Never refuse. Eat it — do not discard blessed offerings.
Respect restricted areasCertain areas may be off-limits to visitors. Follow signage and priest instructions.
No public displays of affectionTemples are conservative spaces. Avoid hugging, kissing, or intimate behaviour on the premises.
Dress conservativelyAvoid revealing clothing. Tight, transparent, or ripped clothes are not appropriate.
Photography Guide
Outside
Inside
Flash
Drone
Tripod
Commercial
Outdoor photography is generally permitted. Indoor photography is often restricted. Always look for signage or ask a priest before taking photos inside.
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
October to March offers the best weather in Patna. Navaratri (September-October) is the most significant time for worship. The Patan Devi Mela in March-April offers a vibrant cultural experience. Avoid visiting in peak summer (April-June) when temperatures exceed 40°C.
Moderate to High — comfortable weather
Summer
April — June
Low — hot plains, pleasant hills
Monsoon
July — September
Low — lush landscape, travel delays possible
Language & Communication
English spoken
English is widely understood at major tourist temples. In smaller local temples, Hindi and the regional language are more common. A smile and simple hand gestures go a long way. Learning a few words of the local language is always appreciated.
Payment & Currency
Cash (Indian Rupees) is the most reliable option, especially for temple offerings, small shops, and local transport.
UPI digital payments (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm) are widely accepted across India — even at roadside stalls. Download one before you arrive.
International credit/debit cards work at most ATMs, hotels, and larger establishments. Smaller vendors may only accept cash or UPI.
Carry small denominations (₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100 notes) for offerings and temple donations. Large notes (₹500, ₹2000) can be hard to break at smaller counters.
Accessibility
Many historic temples have uneven stone floors, multiple steps, and narrow passages. Wheelchair access is limited at older sites — contact the temple in advance.
Basic restroom facilities and drinking water are available at most major temples. Some charge a small fee (₹5–₹10).
Safety Tips
Stay hydrated — carry a reusable water bottle, especially in hot climates.
Keep valuables secure — use hotel lockers for passports and excess cash.
Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear — temple floors can be hot, wet, or uneven.
Beware of unofficial guides or touts near temple entrances. Only use authorised services.
Carry a photocopy of your passport and visa. Leave originals in your hotel safe.
Download offline maps — mobile networks can be unreliable near remote temple sites.
Understanding Temple Traditions
These short explanations help make sense of what you see and experience.
What is Darshan?
Darshan means 'seeing' — but in a temple it means being seen by the deity. It is a sacred moment of connection, not just a viewing.
Why remove shoes?
Removing footwear is a sign of humility. It also keeps the temple floor clean, since devotees sit and pray on the ground.
What is Prasadam?
Food offered to the deity and then distributed to devotees. It is considered blessed. Accept it with both hands and do not discard it.
Why ring the bell?
The bell creates a focused acoustic atmosphere, wards off distractions, and announces your presence before entering the inner sanctum.
Why walk clockwise?
Circumambulation (pradakshina) is done clockwise, keeping the sanctum on your right — an auspicious direction aligned with the sun's path.
What do offerings mean?
Flowers symbolise devotion, coconuts represent the ego being broken, incense purifies the air, and lamps represent the victory of light over darkness.
Tips for International Visitors
Temple Vocabulary
Darshan/ DAR-shan /
Sacred viewing of the deity; the central act of temple worship.
Pradakshina/ pra-DAK-shee-na /
Clockwise circumambulation of the sanctum.
Prasadam/ PRA-sa-dam /
Blessed food offered to the deity and distributed to devotees.
Garbhagriha/ GAR-bha-GREE-ha /
The innermost sanctum where the main deity resides.
Shikhaara/ shi-KHAA-ra /
The towering spire above the sanctum, a defining feature of temple architecture.
Mandapa/ MAN-da-pa /
A pillared hall or pavilion within the temple complex.
Currency Tips
The Indian Rupee (?, INR) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available in cities and towns. For temple offerings, keep small notes (₹10, ₹20, ₹50). Most temples accept donations in cash only — digital payments are uncommon at the offering counter itself.
Donation Etiquette
Offerings (dakshina) are given with the right hand. Place cash in the donation box (hundi) or give it directly to the priest. There is no fixed amount — give what feels appropriate. Some temples have fixed fees for special entry or puja participation.
Removing Footwear
Shoes and sandals are removed before entering the temple building. Most temples have a designated shoe counter (free or a small fee of ₹5–₹20). Socks are generally allowed. In monsoon, carry a plastic bag for wet shoes.
Temple Queue System
Darshan queues can take 30 minutes to 3 hours at popular temples. Many offer paid VIP darshan (₹100–₹500) for faster entry. Special queues for women, elderly, and disabled visitors exist at some temples. No line jumping.
Festival Crowd Warning
Major festivals draw enormous crowds — sometimes hundreds of thousands. Book accommodation months in advance. Expect road closures, restricted vehicle access, and limited phone network. Arrive early (before dawn) to avoid the worst congestion.
Photography Etiquette
Always look for signage before taking photos. When in doubt, ask a priest. Never take photos of devotees in prayer without permission. Selfie sticks are banned at most temples. Silently switch your phone to silent mode.
Essential Contacts
Police / Ambulance / Fire: 112 (National Emergency Number)
Tourist Helpline: 1800-111-363 (Multi-lingual, Ministry of Tourism)
Women's Helpline: 1091
Travel Preparation Checklist
Packing Checklist for Patan Devi Temple
Continue Reading
Temple-specific visitor information is continuously researched and updated from official sources. Where specific data is unavailable, general India travel guidance is provided. Always verify current policies with the temple authority before your visit.
Information last verified July 2026. Temple-specific data coming soon.
By Sacred Places India Editorial Team
Updated: July 2026
Related:Bihar TemplesGoddess Patan Devi (Sati)Bengali Rekha deul style with Mauryan brickwork traces StyleAncient (origin); Maurya and Gupta patronageMethodology
Collections:51 Shakti Peethas
Bihar
Ancient (origin); Maurya and Gupta patronage
Shakti Peetha
Explore More Sacred & Heritage Sites
Continue your journey through the spiritual and architectural wonders of India.
UNESCO Temple Heritage Sites
UNESCO 2002Cultural Heritage
Bihar
Mahabodhi Temple Complex
A UNESCO World Heritage site marking the location where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha.
Explore Temple
UNESCO 1984Cultural Heritage
Odisha
Sun Temple, Konark
A 13th-century Sun Temple built as a giant stone chariot with 24 wheels, drawn by 7 horses.
Explore Temple
UNESCO 1987Cultural Heritage
Tamil Nadu
Great Living Chola Temples — Brihadeeswarar Temple
The principal temple of the Great Living Chola Temples UNESCO site, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture.
Explore Temple
UNESCO 1986Cultural Heritage
Madhya Pradesh
Khajuraho Group of Monuments
The largest and most ornate Hindu temple in the Khajuraho Group of Monuments.
Explore Temple
Famous Temples You May Like
Bihar
Barabar Caves
The oldest surviving rock-cut chambers in India, excavated by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. The seven caves feature a mirror-like polish on granite walls that has never been replicated.
Explore Temple
Bihar
Mundeshwari Temple
Officially recognized as the oldest functional temple in India (108 AD), this architectural marvel on Pawra Hill features a unique octagonal plan and rare non-sacrificial 'Bali' rituals.
Explore Temple
Bihar
Vishnupad Temple
Famous for the 40cm footprint of Lord Vishnu imprinted on solid rock, a major center for Pinda Daan rituals.
Explore Temple
Bihar
Ahilya Asthan Temple
An ancient temple in Bihar dedicated to Ahilya, wife of Sage Gautama, believed to be the site where she was liberated from a curse by Lord Rama.
Explore Temple
Heritage Fact
"The Mahabodhi Temple at Bodh Gaya marks the spot where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment."