Unveiling the treasures of knowledge

Patna is a city steeped in history and culture, home to one of the oldest libraries in Asia: Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library. It stands as a testament to wisdom that has endured through time despite numerous challenges, being named in 1947 after Khuda Bakhsh himself. Established in 1891 by Khan Bahadur Khuda Bakhsh, this library stands as a testament to knowledge pursuit and intellectual heritage preservation. With over 20,000 rare books and manuscripts in its vast library, it is an oasis of learning for scholars and seekers of knowledge from all around. Plunge into its corridors to discover an oasis of Islamic knowledge known as Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library in Patna's historical lanes. Experience this unparalleled oasis of knowledge!

A legacy of knowledge

Since its establishment, the Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library has served as an invaluable repository of intellectual treasures. This library boasts an outstanding collection of approximately 21,000 Oriental manuscripts and 250,000 printed books, making it one of the largest repositories of its kind in existence. Muhammad Bakhsh established this repository under its current name of Muhammadiyya Library. Muhammad Bakhsh entrusted his library to his son Khuda Bakhsh who fulfilled his dying wish by opening it up for public access across India. Khan Bahadur Khuda Bakhsh's generosity in providing his collection to make Patna accessible has ensured its continued existence today. Now with ambitious plans in mind, the Khuda Bakhsh Library aspires to become India's first library to digitise handwritten works for online access and dissemination - further adding value and accessibility for residents of Patna.

A repository of stories

Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library stands as an oasis for stories that span time and space, featuring unique manuscripts found nowhere else in the world and providing each artefact a vital piece of history. Scholars from around the globe flock to this library, drawn in by its vast wealth of knowledge and resources. Visitors are transported back in time with exquisite Mughal paintings, intricate calligraphy, and ornate book decorations that transport them back to an age of artistic brilliance. The library boasts an eclectic collection, from rare documents about Timurid dynasty to Arabic and Urdu manuscripts like those written on deer skin as well as approximately forty Sanskrit manuscripts written on palm leaves - each piece telling its own tale from history's past awaiting to be unearthed by those eager to unlock its mysteries.

Timings

Opening time - 09:30 AM to 05:00 PM (Except Fridays)

The ultimate guide to elevating your journey

Explore the Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Library to enhance your journey and immerse yourself in Patna's rich cultural tapestry, experiencing its many sights, sounds, tastes and smells to deepen your understanding of its history and heritage. Visit Padri Ki Haveli, an historic colonial chapel that stands as witness to time's passage and holds great religious significance, or discover Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park with its vibrant wildlife attractions where both plants and animals coexist in perfect harmony. Unearth the treasures of Kumhrar Archaeological Site, where remnants from Pataliputra reveal an elegant past. Explore Mahavir Mandir - an important Hindu temple dedicated to Hanuman (the monkey god). Delve into Patna's rich cultural and historic past at the Patna Museum, where ancient sculptures, coins and manuscripts bring it all alive. Also don't miss Gandhi Maidan: this public park has witnessed historic events and resonates with national pride.