Patiala

Located in the southeast part of Punjab, Patiala is a city with rich cultural heritage, magnificent structures, traditional arts and music and a unique Punjabi culture. Patiala was established in 1763 by Baba Ala Singh and later became the capital of the princely state of Patiala, which was an important cultural and court centre for the Punjab. The city is especially renowned for its grand Qila Mubarak, its stunning palaces, historic gardens and its rich heritage of Hindustani classical music (Patiala Gharana). Patiala is also known for parandas, traditional Punjabi jewellery, traditional textiles, and the iconic Patiala Shahi turban. It has vibrant markets where you can find traditional attire, handicraft items and local goods. The city's culinary scene is equally charming, featuring hearty Punjabi cuisine and renowned local drinks. Patiala is a city that allows tourists to experience the royal history of Punjab, its artistic legacy, culture, and its hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Patiala
Patiala is an ideal tourist destination from October to March as the weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Palaces, forts, gardens, museums and traditional markets are great places to go in the winter months. The summers (April-June) are hot and the monsoon season (July – September) is rainy and humid.

Patiala: Places, Experiences & Food
Places to Visit in Patiala

Qila Mubarak
Moti Bagh Palace
Sheesh Mahal
National Institute of Sports
Baradari Gardens
Qila Androon
Darbar Hall
Kali Temple
Gurdwara Dukh Nivaran Sahib
Gurdwara Moti Bagh Sahib
Bahadurgarh Fort
Patiala Heritage Walk
Bir Moti Bagh Wildlife Sanctuary
Patiala State Museum
Mall Road

Things to Do in Patiala

Explore Qila Mubarak
Visit Moti Bagh Palace
Admire the artwork at Sheesh Mahal
Walk through Baradari Gardens
Visit Gurdwara Dukh Nivaran Sahib
Explore Qila Androon
Visit Kali Temple
Discover Patiala’s royal history
Experience Punjabi classical music traditions
Shop for Patiala Shahi turbans
Shop for traditional Punjabi jewellery
Explore local bazaars
Try authentic Punjabi cuisine
Take a heritage walk
Explore the city’s traditional arts and crafts

What to Eat in Patiala

Patiala Shahi Lassi
Amritsari Kulcha
Chole Bhature
Butter Chicken
Tandoori Chicken
Dal Makhani
Sarson Ka Saag
Makki Ki Roti
Rajma Chawal
Aloo Paratha
Paneer Tikka
Tandoori Fish
Chole Kulche
Jalebi
Phirni

How To Get There

By Air

The nearest airstrip is Chandigarh airport, which is connected to other cities of India.

By Road

There are regular buses to Patiala from major cities in India.

By Rail

Patiala is well-connected to most of the major railheads of the country.

Bahadurgarh Fort

Lying on the outskirts of the town , the majestic Bahadurgarh Fort may be a prominent tourist attraction. inbuilt the 17th century by first settler nawab Saif Khan during the reign of Mughal emperor, Aurangzeb, the fort is believed to possess been called Saifabad. There are many notable Islamic-style monuments near the fort, including the Diwan-e-Aam and a chic mosque. Tourists also can visit t...

Sheesh Mahal

Lying a step from the Old Moti Bagh Palace, the Sheesh Mahal may be a sprawling structure that’s three-storeys-high. It reflects vestiges of both European and Mughal sorts of architecture. This palatial structure was constructed by Maharaja Narendra Singh, a Jat ruler of Patiala (1846-1858) to offer space to artists, poets and students who regularly visited his court. Today, Sheesh Mahal...

Sarai Mughal

Situated in Shambhu village, Mughal Sarai was built by Sher Shah Suri as a layby along the busy trade route, now recognised because the Grand highroad . it’s believed to be the emperor’s most ambitious project. the massive compound of the sarai has two majestic gates and a two-storeyed mosque. A deep well and a baradari are located just outside and are open for the utilization of pa...