Places To Visit in Patiala

Welcome to Patiala – a city rich in culture and history! Located in the heart of Punjab, Patiala is a must-visit destination for every tourist. Whether you’re an avid traveler, a history buff, or a foodie, Patiala has something for everyone.

Explore the top tourist places in Patiala, including the Qila Mubarak, Sheesh Mahal, and Baradari Gardens. Qila Mubarak is a magnificent palace that was built in the 18th century and is home to several historical artifacts. The Sheesh Mahal, also known as the Palace of Mirrors, is a stunning architectural masterpiece that is adorned with intricate glasswork. And the Baradari Gardens are a perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Patiala.

Don’t forget to indulge in the local cuisine, which is a blend of flavors from Punjab and Rajasthan. From the famous Patiala Peg to the mouth-watering Paranthas, Patiala has a lot to offer to your taste buds.

So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Patiala today and experience the best of tourism in Punjab. Book your tickets now and get ready to explore the top sights of Patiala.

About Patiala

Patiala is a city located in the southeastern part of Punjab, India. It is the fourth-largest city in the state and is known for its rich history, culture, and architecture. Patiala was once the capital of the princely state of Patiala, which was founded by Baba Ala Singh in 1763. The city is named after its founder and is also known as the “City of Turbans” or “Royal City”.

The history of Patiala dates back to the 18th century when Baba Ala Singh established the Patiala State after acquiring a large tract of land in the region. The state grew in power and influence over the next few decades and became one of the most important princely states in India during the British Raj.

Under the rule of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, who ascended the throne in 1900, Patiala saw a period of significant growth and development. The Maharaja was known for his love for sports and was instrumental in promoting polo in India. He also built several magnificent palaces, including the Qila Mubarak, which is a major tourist attraction in Patiala today.

After India gained independence in 1947, Patiala was integrated into the newly formed state of Punjab. Since then, the city has continued to grow and develop as a major commercial and cultural center in the region.

Today, Patiala is known for its vibrant culture, traditional cuisine, and colorful festivals. The city is home to several renowned educational institutions, including Punjabi University, and is also known for its textile and handicraft industries. Patiala is a must-visit destination for every tourist who wants to experience the rich heritage and culture of Punjab.

Architecture of Patiala

The architecture of Patiala is a blend of various styles, reflecting its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is known for its magnificent palaces, grand forts, and beautiful gardens that are a testament to its glorious past.

One of the most notable architectural landmarks in Patiala is the Qila Mubarak, a fortified palace built in the 18th century by Baba Ala Singh. The palace is a magnificent example of traditional Punjabi architecture and features several courtyards, gardens, and impressive gateways. The Sheesh Mahal, located within the palace complex, is a stunning architectural masterpiece that is adorned with intricate glasswork.

Another iconic structure in Patiala is the Baradari Gardens, a beautiful garden complex that was built by Maharaja Rajinder Singh in the 19th century. The garden features a central pavilion with twelve doors, hence the name Baradari, and is surrounded by lush green lawns, fountains, and water channels.

The architectural style of Patiala is also influenced by the Mughal and British eras. The Moti Bagh Palace, built in the early 20th century, is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, which combines Indian and Islamic styles with European elements. The palace is now home to the National Institute of Sports.

Other notable architectural landmarks in Patiala include the Kali Temple, the Gurdwara Dukh Nivaran Sahib, and the Samana Gate. Each of these structures showcases a unique blend of traditional and modern architectural styles, making Patiala a truly remarkable city to visit for its rich architectural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Patiala

Patiala is a city rich in culture and history, offering several attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the top places to visit in Patiala:

1. Qila Mubarak – This is a magnificent palace built in the 18th century that served as the residence of the Patiala royal family. The palace is a fine example of traditional Punjabi architecture and is now a major tourist attraction in Patiala.
2. Sheesh Mahal – This stunning palace is located within the Qila Mubarak complex and is known for its intricate glasswork that reflects light in a spectacular way. The palace is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture and history.
3. Baradari Gardens – This is a beautiful garden complex built by Maharaja Rajinder Singh in the 19th century that is surrounded by lush green lawns, fountains, and water channels. The central pavilion with twelve doors is a major attraction here and is perfect for taking memorable pictures.
4. Kali Temple – This is a popular temple dedicated to Goddess Kali that is located in the heart of Patiala. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hindu mythology.
5. Gurdwara Dukh Nivaran Sahib – This is a famous Sikh temple located on the outskirts of Patiala that is believed to have healing powers. The temple is surrounded by a beautiful garden and is a peaceful place to visit and meditate.
6. Moti Bagh Palace – This beautiful palace was built in the early 20th century and is now home to the National Institute of Sports. The palace is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, which combines Indian and Islamic styles with European elements.
7. Samana Gate – This magnificent gateway was built during the Mughal era and is a fine example of Mughal architecture. The gate is a popular tourist attraction in Patiala and is perfect for taking pictures.
8. Qila Bahadurgarh – This is a historic fort located on the outskirts of Patiala that was built in the 18th century. The fort is a major attraction for history enthusiasts and offers a glimpse into Patiala’s rich past.
9. Omaxe Mall – This modern shopping complex is located in the heart of Patiala and offers a wide range of shopping and entertainment options. The mall is perfect for a day out with family and friends.
10. Punjab State War Heroes Memorial and Museum – This museum is dedicated to the memory of soldiers from Punjab who lost their lives in wars and conflicts. The museum showcases the history of the Indian armed forces and their contributions to the nation.

These are just some of the many places to visit in Patiala. The city has something to offer for every tourist, from history buffs to nature lovers to foodies.

Weather and Best Time to Visit Patiala

Patiala experiences a typical north Indian climate with extreme temperatures during the summer and winter months. The best time to visit Patiala is during the winter months from November to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The temperature during this time ranges between 7 to 18 degrees Celsius. This is the perfect time to explore the city and visit its many attractions.

During the summer months from April to June, the temperature can soar up to 45 degrees Celsius, making it difficult to go out and explore the city. The monsoon season in Patiala begins in July and lasts until September, with occasional rainfall that provides relief from the heat. However, the humidity during this time can make it uncomfortable to explore the city.

Overall, the best time to visit Patiala is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant, and one can enjoy exploring the city and its attractions.

How To Reach Patiala

Patiala is well-connected by air, road, and rail, making it easy to reach the city from different parts of the country. Here are the different modes of transportation to reach Patiala:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Patiala is Chandigarh International Airport, which is located about 63 km away. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Patiala.
2. By Train: Patiala has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities across the country. There are regular trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other major cities to Patiala.
3. By Road: Patiala is well-connected by road to major cities in the region. One can take a bus from Delhi, Chandigarh, or other major cities to reach Patiala. There are also many private taxi services available for hire.

Once you reach Patiala, you can explore the city using local transportation, such as auto-rickshaws and taxis.

Accommodation Options in Patiala

Patiala has a range of accommodation options for all budgets, including luxury hotels, mid-range hotels, and budget guesthouses. Here are some popular accommodation options in Patiala:

1. Neemrana’s Baradari Palace: This is a luxury heritage hotel located in the heart of Patiala, built in the 19th century. It offers spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities and is known for its beautiful architecture and lush gardens.
2. The LaLiT Chandigarh: This is a luxury hotel located in nearby Chandigarh, about 45 minutes’ drive from Patiala. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, a spa, and several dining options.
3. Hotel Mohan Continental: This is a mid-range hotel located in the city center of Patiala, offering comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant, and a bar.
4. Hotel Patiala House: This is a budget hotel located near the railway station in Patiala, offering clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a travel desk.
5. OYO Rooms Patiala Bus Stand: This is a budget hotel located near the bus stand in Patiala, offering clean and affordable rooms with basic amenities.

There are also many other guesthouses, homestays, and budget hotels available in Patiala, providing a range of options for all kinds of travelers. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Patiala As per users Reviews and Ratings

Sure, here is a brief on the top 10 hotels to stay in Patiala based on user reviews and ratings:

1. Neemrana’s Baradari Palace: This luxury heritage hotel is located in the heart of Patiala and is known for its beautiful architecture and lush gardens. Users have rated it highly for its spacious rooms, excellent service, and overall experience.
2. The LaLiT Chandigarh: This luxury hotel located in nearby Chandigarh offers well-appointed rooms and suites, a spa, and several dining options. Users have appreciated the hotel’s luxurious amenities, friendly staff, and convenient location.
3. Hotel Mohan Continental: This mid-range hotel located in the city center of Patiala offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant, and a bar. Users have praised the hotel’s cleanliness, attentive staff, and delicious food.
4. Hotel Patiala House: This budget hotel located near the railway station in Patiala offers clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a travel desk. Users have appreciated the hotel’s affordability, convenient location, and helpful staff.
5. OYO Rooms Patiala Bus Stand: This budget hotel located near the bus stand in Patiala offers clean and affordable rooms with basic amenities. Users have rated it highly for its value for money, convenient location, and cleanliness.
6. Hotel Polo Club & Spa: This luxury hotel located in the heart of Patiala offers well-appointed rooms, a spa, and several dining options. Users have appreciated the hotel’s luxurious amenities, friendly staff, and excellent food.
7. The Baradari Palace: This mid-range hotel located near the Baradari Gardens in Patiala offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant, and a bar. Users have praised the hotel’s location, cleanliness, and friendly staff.
8. Hotel Eqbal Inn: This mid-range hotel located in the city center of Patiala offers clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop lounge. Users have appreciated the hotel’s convenient location, excellent service, and comfortable rooms.
9. Hotel Flyover Classic: This budget hotel located near the flyover in Patiala offers clean and affordable rooms with basic amenities. Users have rated it highly for its value for money, convenient location, and cleanliness.
10. Hotel Sehej Continental: This budget hotel located near the railway station in Patiala offers clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a travel desk. Users have appreciated the hotel’s affordability, convenient location, and helpful staff.

Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Patiala

Here are some travel tips to know before your trip to Patiala:

1. Plan your trip during the winter months between November and February, as the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.
2. Dress modestly while visiting religious places, such as temples and gurudwaras.
3. Carry comfortable walking shoes as you may need to walk a lot while exploring the city.
4. Carry a guidebook or map of Patiala to navigate your way around the city.
5. Avoid drinking tap water and always drink bottled water or boiled water.
6. Try the local cuisine, such as Patiala Shahi Paneer and Rajma Chawal, which are popular dishes in the city.
7. Bargain while shopping in local markets, such as the Chotti Baradari market and the Adalat Bazaar.
8. Respect the local customs and traditions and be mindful of the local sentiments.
9. Be aware of pickpockets and keep your valuables safe while traveling in crowded areas.
10. Hire a local guide to get a better understanding of the history and culture of the city.

Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Patiala

Here are some travel mistakes to avoid in Patiala:

1. Not planning your trip in advance: It’s important to plan your trip well in advance to ensure that you have enough time to explore all the top attractions and activities in Patiala.
2. Not respecting the local customs and traditions: Patiala is a conservative city and it’s important to dress modestly and respect the local customs and traditions while visiting religious places and interacting with the locals.
3. Not carrying enough cash: While there are plenty of ATMs in the city, it’s always a good idea to carry enough cash to avoid any inconvenience.
4. Not booking your accommodation in advance: Patiala is a popular tourist destination and it’s always advisable to book your accommodation in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
5. Not carrying a guidebook or map: It’s always a good idea to carry a guidebook or map of Patiala to navigate your way around the city and explore all the top attractions.
6. Not trying the local cuisine: Patiala is famous for its rich and delicious cuisine and it’s important to try the local dishes to get a true taste of the city.
7. Not hiring a local guide: Hiring a local guide is a great way to get a better understanding of the history and culture of Patiala.
8. Not bargaining while shopping: Bargaining is a common practice in local markets and it’s important to negotiate the prices to get the best deal.
9. Not being aware of pickpockets: Like any other tourist destination, pickpockets are a common problem in Patiala and it’s important to keep your valuables safe while traveling in crowded areas.
10. Not being open to new experiences: Patiala is a unique and diverse city and it’s important to be open to new experiences and embrace the local culture and traditions.

Best Places for Shopping in Patiala

Patiala is a great place to shop for traditional Punjabi attire, jewellery, handicrafts, and more. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Patiala:

1. Adalat Bazaar: Adalat Bazaar is a popular market in Patiala, known for its variety of shops selling everything from clothes to electronics. It’s a great place to shop for traditional Punjabi attire, including Patiala salwar suits, juttis, and dupattas.
2. Chotti Baradari Market: Chotti Baradari Market is another popular market in Patiala, famous for its shops selling Punjabi Phulkari embroidery, juttis, and traditional jewellery. The market is also home to some of the best sweet shops in the city.
3. Omaxe Mall: Omaxe Mall is a modern shopping complex in Patiala, featuring a variety of shops selling branded clothes, electronics, and accessories. It’s a great place to shop for western wear and international brands.
4. AC Market: AC Market is a popular market in Patiala, known for its shops selling artificial jewellery, cosmetics, and accessories. It’s a great place to shop for trendy accessories and costume jewellery.
5. Patiala Factory Outlets: Patiala Factory Outlets is a great place to shop for branded clothes and accessories at discounted prices. The outlet stores offer great deals on branded clothing, shoes, and accessories.
6. Sanour Road Market: Sanour Road Market is a busy market in Patiala, known for its shops selling traditional Punjabi suits, sarees, and jewellery. The market is a great place to shop for ethnic wear and accessories.
7. ACME Plaza: ACME Plaza is a popular shopping complex in Patiala, featuring a variety of shops selling branded clothes, accessories, and electronics. The plaza is a great place to shop for international brands and high-end products.
8. Meera Market: Meera Market is a great place to shop for handicrafts, home decor, and traditional Punjabi attire. The market is famous for its collection of Phulkari embroidery and handcrafted items.
9. New Leela Bhawan Market: New Leela Bhawan Market is a bustling market in Patiala, featuring a variety of shops selling traditional Punjabi attire, footwear, and jewellery. It’s a great place to shop for affordable ethnic wear and accessories.
10. Patiala City Centre Mall: Patiala City Centre Mall is a popular shopping destination in Patiala, featuring a variety of shops selling branded clothes, accessories, and electronics. The mall is a great place to shop for international brands and high-end products.

Food To Eat in Patiala

Patiala is known for its rich and diverse cuisine, influenced by Punjabi and Mughlai flavours. Here are some of the must-try foods when you visit Patiala:

1. Chicken Tikka: Chicken tikka is a popular Punjabi dish made by marinating pieces of chicken in a blend of spices and grilling them to perfection. It’s a must-try dish when you visit Patiala.
2. Butter Chicken: Butter chicken is another popular Punjabi dish, made with succulent pieces of chicken cooked in a rich and creamy tomato-based gravy.
3. Sarson Ka Saag and Makki Ki Roti: Sarson ka saag and makki ki roti is a traditional Punjabi dish that’s a must-try when you visit Patiala. It’s made with mustard greens and served with cornmeal flatbread.
4. Chole Bhature: Chole bhature is a popular breakfast dish in Patiala, made with chickpeas cooked in a spicy gravy and served with deep-fried bread.
5. Lassi: Lassi is a popular Punjabi drink made with yogurt, sugar, and spices. It’s a refreshing and cooling drink that’s perfect for the hot summers in Patiala.
6. Amritsari Kulcha: Amritsari kulcha is a popular Punjabi dish, made with a crispy and flaky flatbread stuffed with spiced mashed potatoes.
7. Rajma Chawal: Rajma chawal is a simple and comforting Punjabi dish, made with kidney beans and served with steamed rice.
8. Paneer Tikka: Paneer tikka is a vegetarian version of the popular chicken tikka dish, made with marinated cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) grilled to perfection.
9. Gajar Ka Halwa: Gajar ka halwa is a popular Punjabi dessert made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee. It’s a rich and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for the winter season.
10. Kulfi: Kulfi is a popular Indian frozen dessert made with milk, sugar, and flavoured with saffron, cardamom, or pistachios. It’s a must-try dessert when you visit Patiala.

Things You Can Buy as a Tourist

Patiala is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional handicrafts. Here are some of the things you should buy as a tourist when you visit Patiala:

1. Phulkari Embroidery: Phulkari embroidery is a traditional art form of Punjab, which involves intricate embroidery work on fabrics like cotton, silk, or chiffon. It’s a must-buy souvenir when you visit Patiala.
2. Jutti: Jutti is a traditional Punjabi footwear that’s made with leather and embroidered with colourful threads. They’re comfortable and stylish and a perfect souvenir to take back home.
3. Patiala Salwar: Patiala salwar is a traditional Punjabi attire that’s popular among women. It’s a loose, flowing pant that’s paired with a short kurti or tunic. You can find them in various fabrics like cotton, silk, or chiffon.
4. Patiala Peg Glasses: Patiala peg glasses are a unique souvenir to take back home. They’re large-sized glasses that are used to serve drinks like whiskey or scotch in the Patiala region.
5. Brassware: Patiala is also known for its brassware, which includes items like lamps, figurines, and vases. They’re beautifully crafted and make for an excellent souvenir.
6. Wooden Handicrafts: Patiala is known for its wooden handicrafts, including items like carved furniture, boxes, and toys. They’re crafted with precision and make for an excellent souvenir to take back home.
7. Handmade Paper Products: Patiala is also known for its handmade paper products, including notebooks, diaries, and greeting cards. They’re made with eco-friendly materials and are beautifully crafted.
8. Punjabi Music CDs: Punjabi music is popular all over the world, and you can find a wide range of Punjabi music CDs in Patiala. They make for an excellent souvenir and a perfect way to remember your trip to Patiala.

Overall, Patiala is a shopper’s paradise, and you’ll find a wide range of traditional handicrafts and souvenirs to take back home.

Nightlife in Patiala

Patiala is a relatively small city, and the nightlife options are limited. However, there are a few places where you can enjoy a good time after dark. Here are some of the popular nightlife options in Patiala:

1. Bars and Pubs: Patiala has a few bars and pubs where you can enjoy drinks and food with friends. Some of the popular options include TDS Bar & Lounge, Sip N Dine, and The Shambles.
2. Nightclubs: Nightclubs are not very common in Patiala, but there are a few places where you can dance to your heart’s content. Some of the popular nightclubs in Patiala include Club Royal, Mastiii Zone, and Hollywood Nightclub.
3. Cinema Halls: If you’re a movie buff, you can catch the latest movies at one of the cinema halls in Patiala. Some of the popular cinema halls in Patiala include PVR Cinemas, Omaxe Mall, and Shiva Cineplex.
4. Late Night Food: Patiala is known for its delicious street food, and you can enjoy it even late at night. The Patiala Chana Bhatura, Samosas, Kachoris, and Jalebis are some of the popular street food items that you can enjoy even after dark.

Overall, Patiala may not be known for its nightlife, but you can still have a good time with friends and family at the bars, pubs, and cinema halls in the city.

Activities and Things to Do in Patiala

Patiala is a city with a rich cultural heritage and history. Here are some of the popular activities and things to do in Patiala:

1. Visit the Qila Mubarak: The Qila Mubarak is a historical fort that’s over 200 years old. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Patiala, and it houses a museum that showcases the history and culture of the city.
2. Explore the Sheesh Mahal: The Sheesh Mahal is a stunning palace that’s known for its intricate mirror work. It’s a must-visit attraction in Patiala and is located within the Qila Mubarak complex.
3. Take a stroll in Baradari Gardens: The Baradari Gardens is a beautiful park that’s located in the heart of Patiala. It’s a popular spot for picnics, walks, and relaxation.
4. Shop for Handicrafts: Patiala is known for its traditional handicrafts like Phulkari embroidery, Jutti shoes, and Patiala Salwar. You can find them at various markets and shops in the city.
5. Visit the Gurudwara Dukh Nivaran Sahib: The Gurudwara Dukh Nivaran Sahib is a holy Sikh shrine that’s believed to have healing powers. It’s a popular pilgrimage site, and many people visit it to seek blessings and healing.
6. Attend a Cultural Show: Patiala is known for its vibrant cultural scene, and you can attend various shows and performances that showcase the local culture and traditions.
7. Try the Local Cuisine: Patiala is known for its delicious food, and you can try out various local dishes like Patiala Chana Bhatura, Makki di Roti and Sarson da Saag, and Lassi.

Overall, Patiala has a lot to offer in terms of culture, history, and traditions. You can explore the various historical monuments, enjoy the local food, shop for handicrafts, and attend cultural shows to get a glimpse of the vibrant local culture.

Lesser Known Facts About Patiala

Patiala is a city with a rich history and culture. Here are some lesser-known facts about Patiala:

1. Patiala is home to the largest cantonment in Asia, which is spread over 3,800 acres of land.
2. The first-ever women’s university in India, the Punjabi University, was established in Patiala in 1962.
3. The famous Patiala Peg, a measure of whiskey that’s larger than a standard peg, originated in Patiala. It was said to have been invented by the Maharaja of Patiala, who wanted to create a glass that could hold a double measure of whiskey.
4. Patiala is home to the National Institute of Sports, which has trained many famous Indian athletes, including Milkha Singh and Sushil Kumar.
5. The famous poet and philosopher, Bhai Vir Singh, was born in Patiala in 1872. He was a renowned writer and contributed significantly to Punjabi literature.
6. The Patiala Salwar, a traditional dress worn by women in Punjab, originated in Patiala. It’s a loose-fitting pant that’s pleated at the waist and tapers down to the ankle.
7. The famous Punjabi dish, Rajma Chawal, is said to have originated in Patiala. It’s a popular dish made with kidney beans and rice, and is a staple in many Punjabi households.

Overall, Patiala has a rich cultural heritage and has contributed significantly to the history and traditions of Punjab and India.

FAQ About Patiala

Q: What is Patiala famous for?

A: Patiala is famous for its rich cultural heritage, historical monuments, traditional handicrafts, vibrant local culture, and delicious food.

Q: What are the top tourist attractions in Patiala?

A: The top tourist attractions in Patiala are the Qila Mubarak, Sheesh Mahal, Baradari Gardens, Gurudwara Dukh Nivaran Sahib, Kali Temple, and the Bahadurgarh Fort.

Q: What is the best time to visit Patiala?

A: The best time to visit Patiala is during the winter months of November to February when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.

Q: What are some popular local dishes in Patiala?

A: Some popular local dishes in Patiala are Patiala Chana Bhatura, Makki di Roti and Sarson da Saag, Lassi, Rajma Chawal, and Kulfi.

Q: What are some good accommodation options in Patiala?

A: Some good accommodation options in Patiala are the Neemrana Baradari Palace, Hotel Polo Club, Hotel Grand Park, Hotel Flyover Classic, and Hotel Bhawna Palace.

Q: What are some popular shopping destinations in Patiala?

A: Some popular shopping destinations in Patiala are the Adalat Bazaar, Tripuri Market, Lahori Gate Market, and the AC Market.

Q: What are some popular activities to do in Patiala?

A: Some popular activities to do in Patiala are exploring the historical monuments, trying out the local cuisine, shopping for handicrafts, attending cultural shows, and visiting the Baradari Gardens.

Q: How can I reach Patiala?

A: Patiala can be reached by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Chandigarh Airport, and the nearest railway station is Patiala Railway Station. Patiala is well-connected by road to major cities in North India.