Patiala

Patiala is an important in Punjab as well as in Northern India. ‘Pagg’, ‘Peg’, ‘Paranda’ and ‘Juti’ are the four famous commodities of the city. Built in the 19th century, the Moti Bagh Palace should not be missed if you are coming to Patiala. National Institute of Sports and the Art Gallery is found here.

The rich cultural heritage is very prominent in Patiala. It has also been rich in its princely affairs. The city is full of museums and palaces. Punjabi shoes are very famous here. They are available in different colors such as golden, silver and others. Embroidered pyjama strings are also available. Hand woven head coverings and Phulkaris are also famous.

Baradari Gardens: It is a garden. It is found in the northern part of the city. Prince Rajindera Singh laid out its formation in the 19th century. The garden contains some of the rare trees and shrubs. Colonial buildings and marble statue of the Maharaja are also found. 

Dukhniwaran Sahib Gurudwara: It is a very famous monument located in Patiala.

Durbar Hall Museum: This building was once used for important meetings and public occasions. It is now a museum. It exhibits dazzling, intricate chandeliers and armor. It has also preserved the sword and dagger of Guru Gobind Singh and the sword of Nadir Shah. The architecture of the museum is somewhat Arabic in style. The museum remains closed on Mondays. Entry into the museum is ticket based.

Lachman Jhoola: It is a suspension bridge built across the small Lake. The lake is found in front of Sheesh Mahal. On the other side of the bridge is found Banasar Ghar.

Maiji Di Sarai: Sarai means restroom. It was built for the travelers who got tired during their journey. It is located on the Sanaur-Dakala Road. It now serves as a criminal investigation agency office.

Old Moti Bagh Palace: This monument was built in the 20th century. The architecture of the place is Indo Saracenic in style. There are 15 dining halls present within the palace. It is claimed to be one of the largest residences of Asia. The structure is also influenced by Mughal architecture. It is surrounded by terrace gardens and water channels. Visitors can visit from Tuesday to Sunday. Mondays remains closed and entry is ticket based.

Patiala Fun World: Fun World is a water park with all the modern rides. It is one of north India’s oldest and largest water parks. The common rides equipped here are Bumper Car, Revolving Tower, Horror House, Baby Train, Wave Pool, Anaconda Hole, River Rafting Speed Slides, Rain Dance and Mushroom Fountain. 

Patiala Kali Devi Temple: This temple is dedicated to goddess Kali. It was built by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh. The statue of the goddess is brought from Makrana, Rajasthan. The centre of the complex houses an ancient temple of Raj Rajeshwari.

Qila Mubarak Fort: This fort was built in the year 1763. Traces of wall paintings are found on the fort walls. A huge gate marks the entrance of the fort. Its style is a combination of both Mughal and Rajasthani architecture. The fort occupies a total area of 10 acres.

Sheesh Mahal: This palace is built right behind the main Moti Bagh Palace. It was built by Maharaja Narendra Singh. Emperor Jahangir’s influence can be seen in the floral designs found on the walls of the palace. A museum is now present inside the palace. The vision of the poetry of Keshav Dass, Bhiari Lal and Surdas can be seen in the paintings present inside the palace.

Banur: It is an old town situated on the banks of River Sukhna. It was known by many other names such as Pushpas, Popa Nagri or Pushpawati. It was an important place during the reign of Mughal. The place has the tomb of Malik Suleman. It also houses the forts of Zulmgarh and Banda.

Samana: It is situated 17 miles away from Patiala. It forms part of the Raja Jaipal’s territory. It was later won over by Shahab-ud-Din Muhammad Gauri. Qutub-ud-Din Aibek succeeded him in 1192. Many famous executioners have been born in Samana. Guru Teg Bahadur was executed by Sayyad Jala-ud-Din of Samana at Delhi in 1675. The younger sons of Guru Gobind Singh were killed by the Beg Brothers. 

Sanaur: This town is found in 4 miles away from Patiala. This town came into the hands of Baba Ala Singh in the year 1748.

Ghuram (Kuhram or Kahram): This old palace is 6 miles away from Patiala. This place was the abode of Lord Ram’s maternal grandfather. It was an important location during the reign of the Rajputs. 

Malhi Khan ruled over the place during the 1750s. A fort was built here by Maharaja Karam Singh and it was named Ramgarh. 

By Rail: A direct train to Ambala is available from New Delhi. From there, a taxi can be hired to Patiala.

By Road: Patiala is 250 kilometers from Delhi. Inter city bus facilities are available.