- From Pathankot
- ≈ 250 km (about 4.5–5 hrs by road)
- Best time
- October to March
- Altitude
- ≈ 350 m
- Good for families
- Yes
About Patiala
Patiala was the seat of one of Punjab's richest princely states. The old city grew around Qila Mubarak, the 18th-century fort-palace, and the Maharajas later built the Moti Bagh Palace and the Sheesh Mahal, known for its mirror work and murals. Today Moti Bagh houses the National Institute of Sports, and the bazaars around the fort are famous for Patiala salwars, juttis and parandas. It's a long drive from Pathankot, so it works best as an overnight trip or combined with Chandigarh.
Highlights
Royal palaces
Qila Mubarak and Sheesh Mahal.
Shopping
Juttis, parandas and Patiala salwars.
Food
Shahi lassi and kulfi.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
October to March
How to Reach
By road: about 250 km from Pathankot via Jalandhar and Ludhiana on NH-44, then towards Patiala. By train: Patiala railway station; Rajpura junction is nearby. Nearest airport: Chandigarh (≈ 70 km).
Local Food
Patiala shahi lassi, kulfi and Punjabi thalis in the old city.
Stay Options
Hotels in Patiala; or stay in Chandigarh.
Places to see
Top attractions in Patiala
Must-visit places in and around Patiala.
- 01
Old city
Qila Mubarak
The 18th-century fort-palace at the heart of the old city.
- 02
≈ 2 km
Sheesh Mahal
Palace famous for mirror work and murals, with a lake and suspension bridge.
- 03
≈ 3 km
Moti Bagh Palace
Grand palace now home to the National Institute of Sports.
- 04
City centre
Gurdwara Dukhniwaran Sahib
Major gurdwara linked to Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji.
Things To Do
Explore Qila Mubarak
Shop in Adalat Bazaar
Juttis and parandas.
Visit Sheesh Mahal
Check which galleries are open.
Suggested Itinerary
- 1
Day 1
Drive via Jalandhar–Ludhiana; evening at Gurdwara Dukhniwaran Sahib and the bazaars.
- 2
Day 2
Qila Mubarak, Sheesh Mahal and Moti Bagh exteriors; return or continue to Chandigarh.
Photo Gallery
Travel Tips
Some palace sections are under restoration — check what's open locally.
Leave early; the highway through Ludhiana can be slow.
Bargain in the bazaars.
