Let’s be honest: riding inside Patna is a test of patience. Between the e-rickshaws at Dakbungalow and the gridlock at Saguna More, the joy of motorcycling often gets lost in the noise.
But here is the good news—Patna is actually a great base for touring. Just an hour out of the city, the landscape shifts from concrete jungle to lush fields, winding hills, and open highways.
At Nakli Life, we believe you don’t need a 10-day leave application to find adventure. Whether you ride a splendor or a 650cc twin, these 5 weekend motorcycle trips from Patna (all under 200km) are perfect for a Saturday morning escape or a full weekend reboot.
1. The Adventure Run: Tutla Bhawani & Rohtas
Best For: Adventure Seekers & Nature Lovers Distance: ~155 km (One Way) Ride Duration: 4 Hours
If you are bored of the usual Rajgir route, point your bike towards Rohtas. This region is quickly becoming the favorite playground for Bihar’s moto-community.
The Route:
Take NH 19 (Old GT Road) towards Sasaram. The highway is iconic—wide, fast, and smooth. From Sasaram, you will take the local roads towards the hills. The final 10km stretch is scenic but can be broken in patches.
Why It’s Worth The Ride:
- Tutla Bhawani Waterfall: A stunning waterfall nestled in a canyon. The suspension bridge here makes for an incredible photo op for your Instagram.
- The Valley Ride: The approach road cuts through the Kaimur hills, offering a rare “mountain riding” feel in Bihar.
- Manjhar Kund: If you have an off-road capable bike (Xpulse/Himalayan), you can push further to Manjhar Kund for a raw, untouched waterfall experience.
2. The Classic Twisties: Rajgir & Nalanda Loop
Best For: Cornering Enthusiasts & History Buffs Distance: ~100 km (One Way) Ride Duration: 2.5 Hours
This is the bread and butter of Patna bikers. The Patna-Bakhtiyarpur-Bihar Sharif route (NH 22 & SH 78) is reliable and fun.
The 2026 Update:
The roads around the Zoo Safari and Glass Bridge area are fully developed now. However, avoid the town market during peak hours (11 AM – 4 PM) as traffic can get choked.
Rider’s Tip:
Don’t just stop at the main stupa. Ride towards the Ghora Katora Lake. The last mile is an electric-vehicle-only zone, so you’ll have to park your bike, but the ride to the parking lot through the forest is serene.
3. The Spiritual Highway: Patna to Bodh Gaya
Best For: Peace Seekers & Cafe Hopping Distance: ~115 km (One Way) Ride Duration: 3 Hours
The NH 83 (Patna-Gaya road) has seen massive upgrades. What used to be a dusty nightmare is now a decent cruising highway, though you must stay alert for sudden diversions.
Why It’s a Vibe:
- Cafe Culture: Bodh Gaya is the only place near Patna with a legitimate cafe culture. Grab an espresso at Be Happy Cafe or Tirupati after your ride.
- The Vibe: Sitting by the Mahabodhi Temple after a 3-hour ride is a “reset button” for your brain.
4. The Short & Sweet: Vaishali (via Marine Drive)
Best For: Beginners & Sunday Breakfast Rides Distance: ~60 km (One Way) Ride Duration: 1.5 Hours
Short on time? This is the perfect “breakfast ride.”
The Route:
Start your ride on Patna Marine Drive (JP Ganga Path) for that riverside bliss. Cross the JP Setu or the updated Gandhi Setu. The road to Vaishali passes through banana plantations and is generally flat and easy.
Highlights:
- Ashokan Pillar: A quiet spot to park your bike and soak in history without the crowds of Rajgir.
- Vishwa Shanti Stupa (Vaishali): Smaller than Rajgir’s but far more peaceful.
5. The Nature Escape: Kakolat Waterfall
Best For: Group Rides & Summer Cool-offs Distance: ~150 km (One Way) Ride Duration: 4.5 Hours
Located in Nawada, this is a longer haul. We recommend leaving Patna by 5:00 AM sharp to maximize your time.
Road Condition Alert:
The SH 31 is decent, but the connector roads to the waterfall can be rough. It’s a test for your suspension but the destination—a 160-foot natural shower—is worth every bump.
Pit Stop: Best Dhabas for Bikers (NH 30 & NH 22)
A ride isn’t complete without “Dhaba ka Khana.” Here are the spots we trust:
- Hotel Mahavihar (Bakhtiyarpur Bypass): The premium pitstop. Clean washrooms (crucial for female riders) and great AC seating.
- Moti Dhaba (Marufganj): Legendary status. Their Dal Makhani and Tandoori Roti are fuel for the soul.
- Old Moti Mahal (Bihta – for Koilwar route): If you are heading towards Ara/Rohtas via Bihta, this is the place for heavy non-veg meals.
Essential Gear List for Weekend Touring
Don’t be a “squid.” Dress for the slide, not the ride. Here is the gear I use and trust for these Bihar trips.
(Note: These are affiliate links. Buying through them supports Nakli Life!)
1. Safety Gear
- DOT/ECE Certified Full Face Helmet: Don’t compromise here. The highways are fast, and the hills are unpredictable.
- [ Amazon Link for Helmet https://amzn.to/4rcLvZI
- All-Season Riding Jacket with Armor: You need mesh for the Bihar heat, but a liner for when the altitude drops in Nepal.
- [Amazon Link for Riding Jacket Here] https://amzn.to/49ECdQf
- Riding Gloves (Touchscreen Compatible): Essential for navigation without taking gloves off.
- [ Amazon Link for Gloves Here] https://amzn.to/4sYTxqP
2. Bike Accessories & Tech
- Robust Mobile Holder with Charger: Navigation is crucial, and your battery will drain fast.
- [Amazon Link for Mobile Mount Here] https://amzn.to/3Zv61ZB
- Portable Tyre Inflator & Puncture Kit: You will find puncture shops, but being self-reliant on highway stretches is better.
- [ Amazon Link for Puncture Kit Here] https://amzn.to/4k4gEMK
- Bungee Cords/Rok Straps: To securely fasten your luggage to the tail seat.
- [Amazon Link for Luggage Straps Here] https://amzn.to/3LvOhdy
Final Pre-Ride Checklist
- Check your RC & Pollution papers: Police checking on the Gandhi Setu and toll plazas is frequent.
- Chain Lube: 200km is enough to dry out a neglected chain. Lube it the night before.
- Cash is King: While UPI works at dhabas, many small puncture shops or tea stalls in interior Rohtas still prefer cash.
Also check our last blog post on our trip to NEPAL https://naklilife.com/patna-to-nepal-by-bike-road-conditions-permit-guide-2026-update/