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Pa?na is the capital of the Indian state of Bihar and the second largest city in Eastern India (in terms of population). Patna is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. Ancient Patna, known as Pataliputra, was the capital of the Magadha Empire under the Haryanka, Nanda, Mauryan, Sunga, Gupta, Pala and Suri dynasties. Pataliputra was also a seat of learning and fine arts. Its population during the Maurya period (around 300 BCE) was about 400,000.The walled old area, known locally as Patna City, is a major trading centre. The modern city of Patna is situated on the southern bank of the Ganga. The city also straddles the rivers Sone, Gandak and Punpun. The city is approximately 35 km long and 16 km to 18 km wide. During the Mauryan Empire, the kings Chandragupta Maurya and Asoka were responsible for turning Patna into an educational and cultural hub. Many foreign travelers including Megasthenes and Fa Hien had visited Pataliputra and have written praises for the city. Patna is known for its Buddhist remains and is also a sacred place for the Sikh Community, since many of the Sikh Gurus were born here. The Buddha also is said to have passed through Pataliputra during the last part of his life. Patna is famous mainly for the historical importance and is a holy place for both Buddhists and Sikhs. Patna is well connected by rail, road and air. The city has five major railway stations to which there are regular trains from major cities of India. There is also the Loknayak Jayaprakash Airport in the city that is well connected by international and domestic flights.
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