Patiala—the name itself is synonymous with the larger-than-life attitude that characterizes the city. Indeed, the regal legacy, the flamboyant spirit and the rich culture, everything about the city resonates a unique and all-encompassing grandeur. The many splendid reminders of its glorious past grace the cityscape, endowing it with a nostalgic charm. Yet, it is only moving through its busy markets and secluded neighborhoods that you can experience the city in its entirety. Here you encounter an endearing city bursting with warmth and thronged with a flurry of colorful pagris and parandas.
One of the largest cities in the state, Patiala is located in the south-eastern region of Punjab. A renowned princely state in the pre-independence period, it was founded in the 18th century by Baba Ala Sigh. The city flourished in cultural and architectural fields during the reign of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, in the early 20th century. Today, with its rich culture and heritage, it promises to be a wonderful destination for travelers.
A city of numerous delights, Patiala has something in store for every traveler. With the many historical monuments spread throughout the city, it is an ideal destination for history enthusiasts. The many architectural masterpieces located here give you a glimpse of its erstwhile grandeur. Also, known for its spiritual legacy, Patiala was one of the sites where the Sikh community flourished. Take a tour around the city’s numerous Gurudwaras to get a taste of the lively Sikh culture and religious traditions.
Visit the city during the festive seasons to witness the celebratory spirit that engulfs it. The religious festivals of Baisakhi and Guru Purab are great occasions to explore the colorful folk culture, amid traditional customs and rituals. The Patiala Heritage Festival, held in the month of February, is organized by the Government of Punjab and celebrates the city’s invaluable historical heritage.
Housing a number of old markets, such as the Old Qila Mubarak Market and the Sirhindi Gate Market, Patiala is a shoppers' haven. You can shop for numerous wares and artifacts such as hand-woven carpets, fabrics embroidered with traditional Phulkari stitch, colorful Punjabi juttis and so on. Book lovers can shop for literary classics at Arna Barna Chowk’s book market.
There are a number of local transport alternatives in Patiala, making it easy to travel within the city. Auto-rickshaws are the most popular means of traveling from one point to another. They can be easily hired from the streets. Cycle-rickshaws are another convenient and cost-effective way of traveling shorter distances within the city. Tourists can also rent private cars from fleet owners for sightseeing and moving around Patiala. Radio taxis are also available and offer a more comfortable way of traveling.
On a daily basis there are approximately 31 flights that operate at Chandigarh Airport.SpiceJet, IndiGo and Air India are the most popular airline brands that fly frequently to this airport.
Besides flying you can also reach Patiala through train.Patialais one of the most popular train stations in Patiala.On an average about 17 trains pass through Patiala on a daily basis.Rajpura to Patiala, Ambala to Patiala, Karnal to Patialaare some of the most popular routes to Patiala with 44, 43, 14 trains weekly respectively.
By road Patiala is surrounded by Sirhind Fatehgarh Sahib, Ambala, Gobindgarh which are 20.36 km, 22.99 km, 24.04 km away respectively. These places are ideal spots for people to plan their short weekend break.
Patiala has a total of 13 hotels.There are 13 hotels in Patiala with the popular ones being Neemrana's The Baradari Palace, Hotel Mohan Continental, Eagle Motel, Garden Resort, Hotel Jiwan Plaza, Hotel TNG etc.