Patna, the capital of Bihar, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Located on the southern bank of the Ganges River, it has a rich historical and cultural heritage. Once known as Pataliputra, it was the seat of powerful ancient empires like the Maurya and Gupta dynasties. Today, Patna is a growing urban center known for its educational institutions, political significance, and religious sites, including those important to Buddhism, Sikhism, and Jainism.