Like in all ancient civilizations, the earliest human settlements in India sprung up around its magnificent rivers. Few rivers of the world have moulded the culture, economy and personality of the people dwelling on their banks as the river Ganga has. Cutting straight across Bihar from west to east, the bounteous Ganga nurtured a veritable fountainhead of political and cultural civilizations, on its shores, down the millennia.

Located at the confluence of four rivers the Ganga, Sone, Gandakand and Poonpun, Patna has a history that goes back three millennia. With a land as fertile as the Gangetic basin, it is not surprising that the region is so heavily populated. This city has been home to two great religions, Buddhism and Jainism, and myriad dynasties from ancient to modern times.

This now bustling urban metropolis was once the centre of ancient culture and learning, Pataliputra, and home to the great Gupta and Maurya empires. There several interesting sightseeing spots amidst the confusion and chaos of the city, and a visit to the banks of the Ganga is also a pleasant experience.

Sightseeing Highlights:

Gandhi Maidan is the heart of this city today. About 6 kms from the Maidan at Kumrahar you can explore the ancient ruins of Pataliputra. Of the 80 pillars (Fa Hien, in 5th century AD, found the pillars shining bright as glass) excavated at the site, only one remains. Gandhi Bridge (5850m long) over Ganga River is supposed to be the longest single river bridge in the world.