Patiala Tourism
The fourth largest city in the state of Punjab, Patiala is nestled in the southeast of the golden land. Situated in the Malwa region, it is a princely state and also the capital of PEPSU (Punjab and East Punjab States Union). It has strong historic and cultural roots, surrounded by architectural marvels and cultural heritage, it is a preferred destination for exploring the core traditions of Punjab.
Patiala was once an erstwhile princely state founded by Baba Ala Singh from the Sidhu Dynasty. The Patiala Gharana of Hindustani classical music traces its roots to this state. Post independence, Patiala grew as a major educational centre inPunjab. Being a princely state, Patiala is home to palaces like the Moti Bagh Palace built in 1847, Quila Androon, Rang Mahal and Sheesh Mahal, all known for their architectural marvel. Patiala is also famous for its colourful clothes and dresses.
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What's Great?
Famous for architecture and market.
What's not so Great?
Nothing much to do around the city. Cannot be visited throughout the year.
For Whom
For history lovers, family vacations, and for fabric merchants.
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.
5 P's Of Patiala
In popular culture, the city is famous for its 5P?s. Pag, or what we call the Sikh Turban is a type of headgear which is traditionally worn by the people. It has a religious significance and is a mark of their prosperity. Paranda, a tasselled tag braid in hair that is a popularised style made by women, Patiala salwar, jutti ? which is a flat fibre based footwear worn both on exclusive and everyday events. Patiala peg is a worldwide popularised term, a slosh of rough and ready drink made by adding liquor to water and drunk directly afterwards.
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.
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.
The fine blend of Mughal, Rajput and Punjabi culture
The beautiful city of Punjab is adorned with the marvellous architectures that can be dated back to the time when Patiala was under the rule of Mughal and Rajputs. The beautiful edifices around the city showcase a fine blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture. Qila Mubarak is a great example of the bygone era that is famous for its rich Mughal and Rajput architecture. Baradari Gardens and Sheesh Mahal are other attractions of the town that are famous for its unique and regal architecture.
Itinerary
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.
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 inChicken and Muttondelicacies along withSarson ka Saag and Makai ki Roti. Do sip into someLassihere as well. Other than these the local Punjabi cuisine, full of rich and spicy delicacies consists ofParathas, Tandoori Chicken, Shahi Paneer, Chole Bhature, Punjabi Kadhi, Rajama Chawaland more. Also with the famous 'Patiala peg', availability of alcohol is definitely not an issue here.
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Oct-Maris 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.
Weather in Patiala
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Patiala in Summer (April - June)
The summers in Patiala are extremely hot and humid due to the tropical climate. The temperature remains between 30 to 43 degrees Celsius. This is not a suitable time to visit Patiala.
Patiala in Monsoon (July - September)
The city of Patiala receives an abundant amount of rainfall. The rains may affect the out day tours, also the humidity during this period is very high. Hence, the monsoon is not the best time to visit Patiala.
Patiala in Winter (October- February)
The winters in Patiala are pleasant and favourable for the local sightseeing around the city. The temperature remains between 5 to 25 degrees Celsius. This is the best time to enjoy the beauty of Patiala city.
Monthly Weather in Patiala
Month
Avg. Minimum (°C)
Avg. Maximum (°C)
January
6
19
February
10
24
March
12
28
April
19
36
May
19
38
June
23
37
July
27
33
August
22
32
September
22
33
October
13
32
November
7
27
December
4
22
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