Located in the heart of Patiala at 30.3168° N, 76.3986° E, the New Moti Bagh Palace is one of the most stunning examples of regal architecture in Punjab. Completed in 1847 by the legendary Maharajas of Patiala, this sprawling complex brilliantly fuses Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, creating a majestic testament to a kingdom famous for its extreme wealth, polo matched, and cultural patronage.
Patiala Palace (New Moti Bagh Palace)
The Grandeur of the Royal Maharajas of Patiala
Architecture & Heritage
The Sheesh Mahal
Constructed behind the main palace grounds is the incredible Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors). Serving originally as the pleasure pavilion for the Maharajas, the interior walls and ceilings are dazzlingly covered in intricate, mosaic-like inset mirror work. It is flanked by beautiful terraced gardens that were directly modelled after the famous Shalimar Gardens of Lahore.
The Suspended Bridge
In front of the Sheesh Mahal lies a grand, artificial lake. Crossing directly over this water body is a spectacular, narrow suspension bridge modeled precisely like the famous Lakshman Jhula in Rishikesh. Walking across this swaying bridge towards the mirrored palace creates a highly photogenic and slightly thrilling experience for visitors.
The Medal Gallery
A highly unique wing of the palace serves as a museum housing the Maharaja's staggering personal collection of medals. Considered one of the largest and most astonishing collections in the world, it holds over 3,000 medals, decorations, and royal orders from countless countries, reflecting the intense international prestige the Patiala royals commanded during the British Empire.
Did You Know?
Today, a significant wing of the New Moti Bagh Palace has been proudly converted into the Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports (NIS), the premier, largest sports institute in all of Asia, historically producing some of India's finest Olympic athletes.
Travel Guide
How to Reach
From Chandigarh: Patiala is intensely well-connected, located just 70 km away from Chandigarh (approximately a 1.5-hour drive via NH7).
Local Transport: Within the city, the palace is a major landmark. Auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws are cheap and readily available from the Patiala railway or bus station directly to the palace gates.
Best Time to Visit
Winter (Oct-March): Walking the expansive outdoor gardens and crossing the lake bridge is significantly more enjoyable in the crisp Punjab winter than in the sweltering summer heat.
Patiala Heritage Festival: Usually held in February, this festival lights up the palace grounds with immense cultural showcases, classical music concerts, and traditional sports.
Local Attractions Nearby
Qila Mubarak: The older, highly fortified historic fort located deep within the old walled city of Patiala, known for its massive defensive gates.
Baradari Gardens: Beautiful colonial-era botanical gardens designed around a central pavilion with 12 arched doors.
Visitor Tips
NIS Campus Rules: Because part of the palace is an active national sports institute, certain wings are strictly off-limits to tourists. Pay attention to security signage dictating public areas.
Museum Timings: The Sheesh Mahal and the Medal Museum are typically open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Note that virtually all government museums in Punjab are entirely closed on Mondays.
Buy Patiala Salwars: Patiala is world-famous for its distinct, heavily pleated 'Patiala Salwar' suits and highly embroidered jutties (shoes). Ensure you visit the local Adalat Bazaar before leaving.
Photography Fees: While general entry is very cheaply ticketed, bringing a professional DSLR or video camera inside the Sheesh Mahal museum often requires buying an additional photography permit at the counter.