The palace

Ran Baas means ‘abode of queens’. It was once home to Patiala’s maharanis and sits inside Qila Mubarak, the fort built in 1763 by Baba Ala Singh, the Sikh leader who founded Patiala and its royal family. Its architecture is a rare blend of Sikh, Mughal, Rajput and colonial styles. After independence it was left to decay for decades, but it has since been brought back to life by Priya Paul of The Park Hotels Group and conservation architect Abha Narain Lambah. The Relais & Châteaux heritage hotel retains many of its original features, from the frescoes to the old brickwork and arches – you truly feel a sense of history while you are there. There are 35 uniquely designed suites inspired by the jewel collection of the royal family, along with a spa and a turquoise-tiled pool that looks out onto the fort. It’s a palace of exquisite detail and sheer beauty, with hand-painted ceilings, carved wood, Rajasthani marble floors and chandeliers inspired by Punjabi jhumkas, all set around dreamy courtyards.

The wedding spaces

The grand Jalau Khana where royal treasures were together with its lawns holds up to 400 guests, making it the perfect choice for larger events. For something more intimate, the Courtyard and Darbar Hall together can accommodate 100 guests. If you are picturing an outdoor mehndi or pheras under the sun, the Moulsari Garden and Mubarak Lawn each fit around 100 guests. There are plenty of other places for gatherings, including The Patiala Bar, whose black marble and burgundy décor make it perfect for an after-party or pre-wedding drinks. The Sunset Terrace is the best spot for views. It’s the highest viewpoint in Patiala, and they also serve a delicious high tea here, including fresh chai, pakoras, biscuits and live sitar music to set the mood.

Catering 

Executive Chef Palvinder Singh is a culinary genius. He and his team create every wedding menu from scratch, whether that is a plated dinner or a palace banquet with live stations. Some dishes are made using recipes from the royal cookbooks, including mutton curry, kibti murgh chicken and vegetable shaami kebab. Neel, the all-day restaurant, serves curries and street food. Atth’s tasting menu works its way through the eight regions of old Punjab. There’s also the jaw-dropping Sheesh Mahal, also known as the palace of mirrors, where you can book an intimate dinner with your partner or a small group.

Beyond the venue

Guests can visit Patiala’s historic forts and landmarks, including Gurdwara Sri Dukh Niwaran Sahib, or shop for phulkari shawls in the bustling bazaars. Right across from the hotel is the Darbar Hall Museum, where you can admire glittering chandeliers and royal weapons, including a sword and dagger said to have belonged to Guru Gobind Singh. For rest and relaxation, the Aura Spa is a lovely spot – try the Almond Facial. This is a side of Punjab most people never see and it’s a perfect honeymoon destination too. As Priya Paul puts it, “We want our guests to drift into a world of fantasy.” Having stayed here, we would say she has pulled it off.

The details

Ran Baas is around an hour and a half’s drive from Chandigarh International Airport. Wedding celebrations are offered at INR 30-50 lakhs per night, inclusive of accommodation and meals. Each celebration can be customised and prices may vary based on requirements.

www.theparkhotels.com/ran-baas-the-palace
+91 90776 97071
lm.patiala@theparkhotels.com