Patna , the capital of Bihar, is among the world's oldest capital cities and an ancient seat of imperial power. Set in a very fertile stretch of land along the banks of the Ganges, the area has seen such mighty rulers as Bimbisara, Ajatashatru, Chandragupta, Ashoka, Samadragupta and Vikramaditya. As each ruler ascended in power and established dynastic glory, he gave his capital a new name. Thus the ancient Kusumpura metamorphosed through Pushpapura, Pataliputra, Azeemabad and now into Patna, a continuous history ranging from 6th century BC to present times – a record few cities in the world can claim.

Patna is situated on the southern banks of the Ganges, which is very wide at this point since it has been joined by three major tributaries between Varanasi and Patna. The Mahatma Gandhi Setu, one of the longest bridges in the world at 7.5 km, crosses the Ganges 5 km west of the city.  Every March Patna comes alive with the Pataliputra Mahotsava featuring parades, sports, dancing and music. The city has the famous Harmandirji, Pathar ki Masjid, Martyr's Memorial, Sher Shah Suri Masjid, etc.