Located just 5 kilometers east of Patna Railway Station, Kumhrar invites you to explore the fascinating archaeological remains of ancient Pataliputra. As you wander through this historical site, you will step onto land where excavations beginning in 1913 uncovered relics spanning four continuous periods from 600 BCE to 600 CE. You can discover the ancient capital associated with historical rulers Ajātasattu, Chandragupta, and Ashoka.
The main highlight of your visit is the Mauryan period Assembly Hall of 80 pillars, dating to 322–185 BCE. Here, archaeologists traced rows of black-spotted buff sandstone monolith pillars spaced 4.57 meters apart, which likely supported a wooden roof over an open-air pleasure hall near the former Son river. Scholars even suggest this site hosted the Third Buddhist Council in 250 BCE.
Beyond the pillared hall, you can see the excavated brick foundation of the Anand Bihar Buddhist monastery, alongside wooden beams and clay figures displayed in the surrounding park. You will also learn about the Arogya Vihar, an ancient medical center once headed by Dhanvantari, the celebrated source of Ayurveda. Kumhrar offers you a quiet, historic look into Patna's ancient past.
What to see at Kumhrar
- Ancient excavated ruins of Pataliputra spanning 600 BCE to 600 CE
- Assembly Hall of 80 pillars made of black spotted buff sandstone monoliths
- Anand Bihar brick Buddhist monastery foundations and wooden beams
- Arogya Vihar medical center associated with Dhanvantari and Ayurveda
Visiting tips
Be sure to walk through the surrounding park to view the excavated wooden beams and clay figures on public display.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Kumhrar is easy to reach on Patna’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Mahatma Gandhi Setu and Bihar Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Patna travel guide.
See the full Patna travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.