Patna is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, with a recorded history spanning over two millennia. Earlier known as Pataliputra, the city was the capital of successive ancient kingdoms, like the Maurya and Gupta dynasties, which shaped the political, administrative, and cultural systems across the Indian subcontinent. Today, Patna serves as the capital of Bihar and is a crucial hub for governance, education, and commerce in eastern India. Its location along the southern bank of the River Ganga has generally supported commerce, agriculture, and settlement growth.
In addition to being the seat of administration, Patna holds immense religious and cultural significance. The city finds a strong connection with Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, with Takht Sri Patna Sahib, Mahavir Mandir, and proximity to ancient learning centres like Nalanda and Vikramshila being strong links. As Patna grows modern, it is developing and expanding infrastructure in education, health, residential areas, and more; thus, the city is fast becoming a heritage destination and a growing urban centre. This blend of history and modernisation continues to attract travellers, scholars, pilgrims, and professionals from across India.
Patna Airport information
Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport (PAT) is a major airport serving Patna and the surrounding areas of Bihar. It is a significant point of connectivity between eastern India and some of the biggest cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Hyderabad. The airport serves both domestic and international flights, handling a continually rising number of passengers every year.
Patna Airport has undergone numerous infrastructure upgrades to enhance its functionality. It has contemporary security screening technology, enhanced check-in counters, baggage handling services, and passenger facilities. Current development work at the airport includes expanding the terminal building and increasing passenger handling capacity for aircraft movements. Located close to the city centre, the airport is an ideal point of departure for short- and long-haul flights.
- IATA code: PAT
- Address: Shaheed Pir Ali Khan Marg, Sheikhpura, Patna, Bihar. 800014