If you thought Patiala (in North Indian state of Punjab) is renowned just for its signature peg and phulkari dupattas, think again! The Baradari Palace is a treasured gem of Patiala that merges hospitality with heritage and elegance and stands as a sentinel of royal splendour of bygone eras.
Patiala is a city that practically oozes history and charm from every corner. Nestled in the heart of Punjab, Patiala is known for its regal past, magnificent palaces, and a culture that practically dances to the beat of its own drum. And let me tell you, if you’re looking for a place that combines historical grandeur with a warm Punjabi welcome, Neemrana’s Baradari Palace in Patiala is where you can’t miss any of these.
The Baradari Palace, built in 1876 by Kaur Sahib Ranbir Singh (the Maharaja’s younger brother, who clearly had a thing for impressive architecture), is one of those places where you can almost hear the echoes of royal gossip. It is a heritage hotel set within a colonial palace dating back to the 19th century in the city of Patiala. Restored and operated by the eponymous Neemrana Group, the Baradari Palace is a sprawling garden-palace in the heart of culturally-rich Patiala, this architectural marvel is a heritage hotel that not just spells comfort and class, but speaks volumes about spatial science- think sprawling courtyards, large green spaces, majestic rooms fit for kings and exceptional hospitality that entices you to return for more.
This simplistic white-façade palace hotel has created another niche whereby you can experience the history and as also its architectural treasures in Punjab. Another highlight of this heritage hotel is its immense popularity as a venue for Bollywood shoots and opulent weddings.
Boasting elegant colonnades and a twelve-door pavilion, this heritage ‘non-hotel’ hotel looks like something straight out of the Mughal and Colonial eras. With rooms boasting ceilings as high as 30 feet, it felt as though I am still living in the age of the Maharajas. The palace might not be as ostentatious as some of Patiala’s other royal residences, but its understated charm truly makes it stand out.
While taking a leisurely evening stroll through this 19th-century gem, you’ll discover that it has worn many hats over the years—from serving as a state guesthouse to housing the Punjabi University and even functioning as the Punjab State Archives for a significant period.
Luxurious rooms with historic feel
Set amidst the palace’s verdant gardens this property has enormous, high-ceilinged rooms, decorated in bright colours and antique furnishings, the sheer spaciousness of rooms and bathrooms befits royalty. A royal dining hall compliments the property with its high- rise ceiling, antique fans and furnishings and a well-preserved jharokha. The joy of dining in such a splendid restaurant is of different level all together.
The Neemrana Touch
The Baradari Palace is operated by the famous Neemrana Group of Hotels and comes with its signature ‘non-hotel’ hotel feel. Thanks to the vision of the Neemrana team, it has undergone a remarkable transformation. They decided that preserving it as a mere relic wasn’t enough. Instead, they’ve revitalized it into a vibrant, living slice of history, seamlessly blending its historic charm with modern comforts to suit today’s traveler. Verdant gardens, heritage feel with modern amenities, peaceful surroundings, impeccable service are hallmarks of Neemrana Group of Hotels and also Baradari Palace.
The Baradari Palace is known to offer typical Punjabi style of living to its guests. The staff spare no effort in treating their guests like royalty. The hotel rooms are bright and genteel characterised by antique mirrors, fans, colourful furnishings, four-poster beds, fireplaces, royal portraits and airy verandahs with modern amenities including Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, separate seating areas, balconies, tea and coffee making equipment, making stay highly comfortable.
Baradari Palace is also known for holding opulent weddings and movie shoots. Did you know that Salman khan’s superhit movie ‘Bodyguard’ also starring Kareena Kapoor was predominantly shot here and many scenes of ‘Raazi’ were also filmed here. The latest webseries ‘Mukhbir’ was also shot at this location.
Food at Baradari Palace
Baradari Palace serves multiple cuisines including Indian, Chinese, Italian and taste and quality of the dishes is something that I can personally vouch for. Chef Juned Ahmad ( also the Head Chef at the property) takes pride in serving signature dishes like Paneer Pasanda, Kebabs, Dal Makhani, Shahi Belliram Gosht. The popularity if these dishes is so immense that people come in from other cities to relish these dishes.
Things to do in Patiala
Sheesh Mahal
Heritage Walk
Buy Phulkari Dupattas
Jutti shopping
Indulge in Punjabi lassi
Try the famous Choley Kulchey
