"A place that held immense value historically and continues to hold religious significance, Patna is a must visit for the traveller seeking an experience of the 'real' India. Known in ancient times as Patliputra, it was the capital of the Mauryan Empire, and later, an industrial capital in days of the British Raj. It is also an important pilgrimage centre to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists."
Having served as the capital of the Magadha Empire and Suri Dynasty, the rich history of Patna is undeniably so. One of the oldest continually inhabited places in the world, Patna once served as the centre of fine art and learning during the Mauryan empire. The Patna Museum which stocks over 50,000 antiques is worth a visit, as is Vaishali Stupa, one of the oldest surviving stupas. The proximity of Hindu, Buddhist, Jain and Sikh pilgrimage centres in Vaishali, Nalanda, Rajgir and Pawanpuri add the dimension of religious significance to Patna. The Holy Ganges too flows through Patna, providing the opportunity of relaxing, long boat rides in evenings. The Chhath Festival, celebrated here for 6 days post Diwali, sees Hindu devotees thank the Sun God for sustaining life on earth. Must buy: Madhubani Paintings, a traditional style of painting.