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Being a historical geek means that museums are your favourite sightseeing spot to visit and explore. When in Punjab, there are a few popular museums in Patiala that you have to stop and explore. One alluring thing about these museums is that most of them are part of historical monuments. The next time you are planning a getaway to Patiala, wondering what to do and how to spend your time, ensure that you don’t miss out on visiting any of the museums around. Each museum goes deep into the city’s royal history, Sikh heritage, and artistic achievements.
6 Top Museums In Patiala
Museums in Patiala offer a distinct flavor of Patiala’s illustrious past, from the era of the Maharajas to modern-day marvels.
1. Sheesh Mahal Museum
Photo: Sushrut Koche / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Sheesh Mahal, or the “Palace of Mirrors,” is one of the most iconic structures in Patiala, housing a fascinating museum that showcases royal artefacts, miniature paintings, and rare manuscripts. The majority of the tourists that visit this palace often confine their exploration to the palace, witnessing the grandeur and the intricate architecture. However, many miss out on exploring the museum that exists inside. It is undoubtedly one of the major attractions in the palace. The main attraction of the palace is the ceilings adorned with mirrors and glass work, creating a dazzling visual spectacle.
Location: Sheesh Mahal Grounds, Old Moti Bagh, Moti Bagh, Patiala, Punjab 147001
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: ₹50 per adult and ₹20 per child
2. Baradari Palace Museum
Photo: Barunghosh / Wikimedia Commons
Another historical palace cum heritage hotel that also stands out with a museum is the Baradari Palace. It is one of the most popular museums in Patiala and initially served as the summer retreat for the royal family. It is primarily a heritage hotel now and has a dedicated museum section, which offers a glimpse into the royal lifestyle of Patiala’s erstwhile rulers. The museum is set within the lush Baradari Gardens and is a fine example of Mughal architecture fused with European design elements.
Location: Baradari Rd, Baradari, Patiala, Punjab 147001
Timings: 2 PM – 7 PM
Entry Fees: Need to reserve a booking in the hotel
3. Qila Mubarak Museum
Photo: Journojp / Wikimedia Commons
Also known as Bathinda Fort, Qila Mubarak is yet another stunning heritage monument that is in Patiala. There is a section inside the fort where all the artefacts and the galleries are assorted for the visitors to explore. The complex was built by Baba Ala Singh, the founder of the Patiala dynasty, in the 18th century. The museum inside houses ancient weapons, coins, manuscripts, and antique jewellery, providing a glimpse into the rich royal past. Inside the museum, one of the main attractions is the display of traditional arms like swords, daggers, and armour used by the Patiala royal family.
Location: Quila Androon, Chandni Chowk, Adalat Bazar, Patiala, Punjab 147001
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
4. Moti Bagh Palace Museum
Photo: MILIND KULKARNI / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Another one of the best Patiala museums to stop and explore is inside the Moti Bagh Palace, which is another historical palace. It is one of the largest royal residences in Patiala and has numerous sightseeing spots inside. Inside the museum, you get a glimpse into the vast collection of artefacts and components that take you back in history. The ivory work and the manuscripts on display here are also rare, giving visitors a sense of the lavish lifestyle once enjoyed by the royals. Every artefact inside the museum is associated with Maharaja Narinder Singh and the royal family.
Location: Sheesh Mahal, colony, Old Moti Bagh, Moti Bagh, Patiala, Punjab 147001
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
5. Rajindra Kothi Museum
Photo: Jamuna Prasad sharma / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Again, the majority of the historical museums in Patiala aren’t technically museums but well-preserved monuments with artefacts and royal components on display. One such spot that you must explore is the Rajindra Kothi Museum. The palace initially served as a residence for the royal family and it has now been transformed into a museum that offers a glimpse into the British colonial architecture and Patiala’s history during the British Raj. There is an extensive collection but you get a glimpse into the well-preserved furniture, paintings and the rooms of the royal families that flourished back in the day in Patiala.
Location: Near Baradari Gardens, Patiala
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: None
6. Antique Museum Patiala
Photo: Mankirat SINGH 2 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This is a personal museum that is run by one of the locals that have garnered an impressive collection of antiques and artifacts. Think of it as a small shop but with everything antique inside it. These are all personal collections that have primarily been handed down through generations and are currently on display in the museum. Not just the royal jewelry, arms and armor, you will also get a glimpse into the Tribal art and heritage inside the museum, which is quite impressive.
Location: 2070A/5, Rajbaha Road, National Highway 64, opp. Capital Small Finance Bank, Patiala, Punjab 147001
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM (Weekends closed)
Entry Fees: N/A
There are a handful of museums in Patiala, each depicting a story of the past. Since the majority of them are located inside the palaces, it adds to the charm and the beauty of the whole experience, further explaining why a visit to these museums is a must in your travel plans. Plan a trip with TripXL to avail the best deals and discounts.
Cover Photo: Abhinav Sharma / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
