When you travel to Bihar, India, you can visit the Mahatma Gandhi Setu (also known as Gandhi Setu or Ganga Setu), a major bridge crossing the river Ganga. It connects the state capital of Patna in the south to Hajipur in the north as part of National Highway 19. Spanning 5,750 meters (18,860 feet), this impressive structure stands as the fourth-longest river bridge in India.
Built over a decade by Gammon India Limited and inaugurated in May 1982 by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, it held the title of India's longest bridge from 1982 until 2017. When visiting, you will see a massive engineering site featuring 45 intermediate spans, two end spans, and footpaths on either side of its roadway lanes. Today, over 85,000 vehicles and 12,000 pedestrians cross it daily.
While viewing or traveling across the bridge, you can observe its modern triangular steel trusses. These steel framework girders were installed during a major rehabilitation project completed in June 2022 to replace the original concrete superstructure while preserving the original pillars. It offers you a direct connection across the historic Ganges River.
What to see at Mahatma Gandhi Setu
- Spans 5,750 meters across the river Ganga, connecting Patna and Hajipur.
- Stands as the fourth-longest river bridge in India.
- Features 45 intermediate spans and pedestrian footpaths alongside its roadway lanes.
- Showcases revamped triangular steel trusses installed during its major rehabilitation.
Visiting tips
Prepare for potential congestion, as over 85,000 vehicles cross the bridge daily.
How long: 1 hour · Best time: Early morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Mahatma Gandhi Setu is easy to reach on Patna’s public transport. 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.