Patiala Tourism (2024) - Punjab > Top Places, Travel Guide

Patiala Travel Essentials

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Patiala Tourism

The fourth-largest city in the state of Punjab, Patiala is nestled in the southeast of the golden land. Patiala has strong historical and cultural roots, surrounded by architectural marvels and cultural heritage along with being a preferred destination for exploring the core traditions of Punjab. Patiala was once an erstwhile princely state and hence is home to many architectural marvels that are a blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture.

The Patiala Gharana of Hindustani classical music traces its roots to this state. In popular culture, the city is famous for its 5 Ps - Patiala Shahi Pag, (a type of headgear which is traditionally worn by Sikhs), Paranda (coloured braids worn by women in the hair), Patiala Salwar (a type of woman pants), Patiala Jutti (flat fibre-based footwear) and Patiala Peg (a unique measurement of liquor). When in Patiala, do visit the old town for experiencing the pulse of the city and gorging of finger-licking local delights.

Qila Mubarak Complex

Patiala Kali Mata Mandir

Sheesh Mahal, Patiala

Gurudwara Dukh Niwaran Sahib Patiala

Moti Bagh Palace

Baradari Gardens

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Interesting Story Behind Patiala Peg

Patiala peg is a worldwide popularised term, a slosh of rough and ready drink made by adding liquor to water and drunk directly afterwards. Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala owned a Polo team, which was undefeated as part of his was built from soldiers who were legendary warriors of Punjab. After the matches, they used to be skull pegging. The civilized version of the game came to be known as ‘Tent Pegging'. It was the Patiala tradition to invite ‘Viceroys Pride’, all Irish men, who would drink until the night’s end. As ‘Viceroys Pride’ arrived for a friendly match, the home team felt nervous so a conspiracy was planned. On the evening before the match, the ‘Viceroys Pride ‘was poured a double measure of whiskey in every peg, later called the "Patiala Peg". While they were drinking, the pegs used for tent pegging were replaced with larger ones for the ‘Viceroys Pride’ and the smaller ones for the home team. The next morning, as the light came through, the home team won as the Viceroys were too groggy to play.

Culture Of Patiala

Patiala has witnessed the evolution of several cultures and traditions, experienced all of them and today it has its own culture – ‘Patialvi’. The world popular architecture is inspired by Rajput designs, moulded in a traditional taste. Local Bhangra is the most popularised Indian classical music which can be observed during most festivities. This place is the home of the ‘Patiala Gharana’ which has witnessed talented musicians such as Ustad Ali Bux.

History

In 1763, Baba Ala Singh, jathedar or general or leader of the Phulkian Misl (a warrior clan) laid the foundation of ‘Quila Mubarak’, a fort around which the whole city is built today. He was also the first ruler of Patiala and ruled for three years In the 18th century political vacuum led to the downfall of the Mughals. It was successfully filled up by the Sikh Misldars in Punjab by the Marathas and the Afghans. Maharaja Bhupinder Singh (1900-1930) gave the Patiala state a marked place on the political map of India. The major reason behind this was the increasing popularity of local sports. The original residents of Patiala were Hindus of Sirhind, who started doing business outside the Darshani Gate. The lower caste settled on the outskirts known as Chur Majris. During late nineteenth century, the ruling class of Jagirs became rich and started building huge mansions. Some of the buildings though still stand as evidence of the feudal glory.

Restaurants and Local Food in Patiala

Patiala is dotted with glittering little restaurants and Dhabas which serve some of the most lip-smacking traditional food. Do indulge in Chicken and Mutton delicacies along with Sarson ka Saag and Makai ki Roti . Do sip into some Lassi here as well. Other than these the local Punjabi cuisine, full of rich and spicy delicacies consists of Parathas, Tandoori Chicken, Shahi Paneer, Chole Bhature, Punjabi Kadhi, Rajama Chawal and more. Also with the famous 'Patiala peg', availability of alcohol is definitely not an issue here.
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Suggested Itinerary for Patiala

Day 1- Check-in at the hotel. Visit the Qila Mubarak complex, a beautiful edifice showcasing the Rajput and Muslim architecture. Visit the Darbar Hall museum inside the premises of Qila Mubarak. Then, visit the Gurudwara Dukhniwaran Sahib.
Day 2- Visit Baradari gardens, famous for Mughal-era architecture. Then, visit the Sheesh Mahal, the palace which is adorned with huge mirrors. Visit the vibrant market of Patiala that are filled with the variety of Punjabi souvenirs. Then enjoy the langar at Panj Bali Gurudwara.

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How to Reach Patiala

How to Reach Overview

Patiala has a huge network of buses that run regularly to it. Patiala has its own railway station and frequent trains are available from all major places. Chandigarh has the nearest airport.

How to reach Patiala by flight

Patiala does not have its own airport, the nearest airport is Chandigarh airport which is situated 55 km away from Patiala. From Chandigarh, you can easily take a cab to Patiala.

How to reach Patiala by road

Regular buses run from various parts of the northern India to Patiala. You can catch a direct bus to Patiala from Delhi, Chandigarh, Haryana that are easily available at the bus stations.

How to reach Patiala by train

Patiala has its own railway junction which is well-connected with almost all the major cities of India.

Local transport in Patiala

Rickshaws- both manual and autos are the easiest modes of travel.

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Patiala Photos

Gurdwara Shri Dukhniwaran Sahib - Holy Shrine in Patiala

Aerial View of Moti Bagh Palace, Patiala, Punjab

Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors) - Marvelous Palace built as a Part of Moti Bagh Palace

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FAQs on Patiala

What is not so good about Patiala?

Nothing much to do around the city. Cannot be visited throughout the year.

What are the places near Patiala?

The top places near to Patiala are Shimla which is 114 km from Patiala, Mussoorie which is located 161 km from Patiala, Chandigarh which is located 58 km from Patiala, Manali which is located 226 km from Patiala, Nainital which is located 313 km from Patiala

What are the things to do in Patiala?

The top things to do in Patiala are Qila Mubarak Complex, Sheesh Mahal, Patiala, Moti Bagh Palace, Baradari Gardens, Gurudwara Dukh Niwaran Sahib Patiala, Bahadurgarh Fort. You can see all the places to visit in Patiala here

What is the best way to reach Patiala?

Patiala has a huge network of buses that run regularly to it. Patiala has its own railway station and frequent trains are available from all major places. Chandigarh has the nearest airport.
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What is the local food in Patiala?

What is the best time to visit Patiala?

Best time to visit Patiala is from the month of October- February, as the weather during this period is delightful and is suitable for sightseeing and local tours around the city.
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Who should visit Patiala?

For history lovers, family vacations, and for fabric merchants.

What is famous about Patiala?

Famous for architecture and market.

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Patiala Reviews

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Medhavee Pravin

6 years ago

Patiala a quaint, little city is the educational hub of Punjab, bearing my own college! When I first visited Patiala, I was amazed by the hospitality and culture. It has some stunning monuments like (Read More)the Qila Mubarak, which was once a Maharaja’s palace and is now open to tourists; Sheesh Mahal, Moti Bagh Palace, Bahadurgarh fort, the Baradari Palace( now a heritage hotel). These are beautiful places and have a lot of history attached to them. The Baradari Garden, Deer Park, Dukh Niwaran Sahib Gurudwara and Kaali Mata ka Mandir are also major attractions. The Sheran Wala gate, AC market, and Adaalat Bazaar are some of the old markets. The Sheran Wala gate has delicious food and Shahi Lassi. These markets also offer a wide range of ‘Juttis’ and clothes in ‘Phulkari’ work that Patiala is famous for. Patiala is a true reflection of Punjab’s culture and traditions.

Jacklin Jot

6 years ago

All these tourists attractions are good

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