Patna is the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Bihar. Historically known as Pāṭaliputra, the modern city is situated primarily on the southern bank of the Ganges River and straddles the rivers Son, Gandak, and Punpun. It covers an area of approximately 250 square kilometres (97 sq mi) and serves as the seat of the Patna High Court.
As of 2018, Patna had a population of 2.35 million, ranking it as the 19th largest city in India with an urban agglomeration that is the 18th largest. The city is located near several significant Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain pilgrimage centers, including Vaishali, Rajgir, Nalanda, Bodh Gaya, and Pawapuri. Additionally, Patna City holds religious significance for Sikhs as the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru.