Kumhrar (Pataliputra Ruins), Patna

The archaeological remains of ancient Pataliputra, capital of the mighty Mauryan Empire under Chandragupta and Ashoka. The star attraction is the excavated 80-pillared hall of polished sandstone from Emperor Ashoka's era. A key site for understanding one of the world's great early cities, set in a peaceful landscaped park.

Kumhrar is the archaeological area on the eastern edge of Patna where the ruins of ancient Pataliputra — the capital of the Mauryan Empire (c. 322–185 BCE) — have been excavated. It preserves layers of settlement from the Mauryan through the Gupta and later periods.

Key remains include:

• The famous 80-pillared hall (Ashokan assembly hall) of highly polished Chunar sandstone, of which pillar bases and one recovered pillar survive.
• Arogya Vihar — remains of an ancient monastery/hospital associated with the physician Dhanvantari.
• Timber structures, wells and terracotta finds displayed on site.

A small museum and a landscaped garden help visitors imagine the grandeur of Megasthenes' Palibothra.

• By Air: Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport, Patna (~10 km).
• By Rail: Patna Junction (6 km) or Rajendra Nagar Terminal (3 km).
• By Road: On Kankarbagh road in eastern Patna; easily reached by auto, taxi or city bus.

October to March, ideal for exploring the open-air excavation park.