Patna

Patna, the capital city of Bihar, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and an important centre of history, culture, education, and commerce in eastern India. Situated on the southern bank of the Ganges River, the city was once known as Pataliputra, the magnificent capital of the Maurya and Gupta Empires. Today, Patna blends its rich historical heritage with modern urban development. The city is home to renowned attractions such as Golghar, Takht Sri Patna Sahib, Bihar Museum, Gandhi Maidan, and Patna Museum, making it a popular destination for history enthusiasts, pilgrims, and travellers.

Patna traces its origins to the ancient city of Pataliputra, founded in the 5th century BCE by Ajatashatru, the ruler of Magadha. It later became the capital of the Maurya Empire under Emperor Chandragupta Maurya and reached its peak during the reign of Emperor Ashoka, emerging as one of the greatest political and cultural centres of the ancient world. The city continued to flourish under the Gupta Empire, often regarded as the Golden Age of India. Over the centuries, Patna came under the rule of the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughals, and the British, each contributing to its development. During the Mughal period, it became an important centre for trade, while under British rule it grew into a major administrative city. Today, Patna preserves its remarkable historical legacy while serving as the political, educational, and economic heart of Bihar.

Patna has its own international airport (Jay Prakash Narayan Airport) and is a major railway junction on the eastern network.