Things to Do in Patiala: Royal Palaces, Gurdwaras & Old Bazaars

Explore Qila Mubarak

Qila Mubarak, at the heart of the old city, was the original fort-palace of the Patiala rulers. The complex includes the Qila Androon (inner palace) with painted rooms, and the Darbar Hall, which has housed a museum of arms, chandeliers and royal objects. Restoration has been ongoing, so some sections may be closed; check at the gate.

Time needed

1.5–2 hours

Good to know

Some areas under restoration

Good for

History lovers

See the Sheesh Mahal

The Sheesh Mahal, built by Maharaja Narinder Singh in the 19th century behind Moti Bagh, is decorated with mirror work and wall paintings. It houses a museum with miniature paintings and one of the largest collections of medals and decorations in the world. A lake in front is crossed by a suspension bridge modelled on Rishikesh's Lakshman Jhula.

Time needed

1.5 hours

Good for

Art and history lovers

See Moti Bagh Palace

The Old Moti Bagh Palace, built in the late 19th century, is one of the largest residences in Asia. It is now home to the Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports (NIS), where many of India's athletes train. The grounds and façade can be seen; access inside is limited.

Time needed

45 minutes

Walk in Baradari Gardens

Baradari Gardens, laid out around a 19th-century palace built by Maharaja Rajinder Singh, have old trees, a fernery and rose beds. The palace itself has been restored as a heritage hotel. The gardens are popular for morning walks.

Best time

Morning

Hear Patiala's music heritage

Patiala gave its name to the Patiala gharana of Hindustani classical music, associated with singers such as Bade Ghulam Ali Khan. Punjabi University and local cultural centres host classical concerts and festivals; check listings during your visit.

Good for

Music lovers

Visit Gurdwara Dukh Niwaran Sahib

Gurdwara Dukh Niwaran Sahib is associated with the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur, and its sarovar is believed by devotees to heal suffering. It is one of the most important gurdwaras in the region and has a peaceful atmosphere, especially in the evening.

Time needed

1 hour

See the Kali Devi Temple

The Kali Devi Temple, opposite Baradari Gardens, was built by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, who brought an idol of Kali from Bengal. It draws large crowds during Navratri.

Visit Bahadurgarh Fort

Bahadurgarh Fort, about 6 km from Patiala, was built by Nawab Saif Khan in the 17th century and later renamed by Maharaja Karam Singh to honour Guru Tegh Bahadur, who is said to have stayed here. It has a gurdwara within its walls and is now used by a police training institute, so access may be restricted.

Shop for Patiala salwars, juttis and parandas

The Adalat Bazaar, Tripuri market and the lanes around Qila Mubarak sell the voluminous Patiala salwar, embroidered juttis, colourful parandas (hair tassels) and phulkari. Prices are fair, and bargaining is expected in smaller shops.

Good for

Shoppers

Eat Punjabi food

Try chhole bhature, lassi, pinni and other Punjabi sweets in the old city. Patiala's dhabas and sweet shops are busy from morning to night.

Good for

Food lovers

Visit Fatehgarh Sahib

Fatehgarh Sahib, about 40 km away, is a major Sikh pilgrimage site commemorating the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh's younger sons in 1704. Sirhind, next to it, has Mughal-era monuments.

Fatehgarh Sahib guide

What are the best things to do in Patiala?

Explore Qila Mubarak, the Sheesh Mahal and Moti Bagh Palace, walk in Baradari Gardens, visit Gurdwara Dukh Niwaran Sahib and the Kali Devi Temple, and shop for Patiala salwars and juttis.

How many days are enough for Patiala?

One day for the main sights; two days to add Bahadurgarh and Fatehgarh Sahib.

What is Patiala famous for?

Its royal heritage, the Patiala salwar, juttis and parandas, the Sheesh Mahal's medal collection and the National Institute of Sports at Moti Bagh.

What is the best time to visit Patiala?

October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.

Is the Sheesh Mahal in Patiala open to visitors?

Yes, the museum in the Sheesh Mahal is usually open to visitors, though timings and closures can change during restoration work. Check locally before going, and note that many museums close on Mondays.