A 300-year-old royal guesthouse reborn as luxury hotel with exclusive 35 gem-inspired suites in historic Patiala, Punjab 

At Panache World, we believe true luxury is not just about opulent service; it’s about the stories and history that a place holds. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce a new opening that promises to be a jewel in India’s luxury travel crown: Ran Baas, The Palace in Patiala. 

A collaboration between The Park Hotels and Relais & Châteaux, this heritage hotel is a vibrant rebirth of a royal residence, bringing the legendary tales of the Patiala royal family to life.

For centuries, Patiala’s royalty was synonymous with flamboyant style, immense wealth, and a certain rakish charm. Figures like Maharaja Bhupinder Singh – famous for his lavish lifestyle, magnificent jewels (including the legendary Patiala Necklace), and a love for cricket –  made the city a byword for a unique blend of Punjabi strength and imperial grandeur. 

Ran Baas, meaning ‘The Abode of Queens’, was once the private guesthouse for the royal family within the formidable Qila Mubarak complex. This is where queens and consorts once lived, where secrets were whispered in courtyards, and where history was made in hushed tones. The new hotel brings those forgotten stories out of the shadows.

A masterclass in restoration

The restoration of this 300-year-old palace is a work of art. The project, overseen by acclaimed conservation architect Abha Narain Lambah, has meticulously preserved the original architectural integrity while seamlessly integrating modern luxuries. Guests will find themselves surrounded by a stunning synthesis of late Mughal, Rajput, Sikh, and colonial styles. 

Imagine walking through grand, cusped arches, gazing at walls adorned with intricate lime plasterwork, and admiring jharokhas (oriel windows) that have watched over generations of royalty. The hotel’s unique ‘Patiala Style’ is everywhere, from the meticulously restored frescos to the Nanakshahi brick masonry.

Ran Baas is purposefully intimate, with only 35 suites, each one a unique masterpiece. Inspired by precious gemstones, the suites feature bespoke designs that evoke the opulence of the royal court. The Pearl Suite, for instance, is a vision of white-on-white textures, while others feature intricate hand-painted murals of parrots and foliage, a nod to the miniature paintings of the period. This is not standardised luxury; it’s a personalised experience where no two rooms are alike.

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Modern comforts within an ancient setting

While the palace whispers tales of the past, the amenities are a testament to modern-day indulgence. The hotel offers a luxurious spa located in the former royal kitchens, a serene swimming pool flanked by fort bastions, and a chic bar called The Patiala Bar, where you can sip signature cocktails under a pink-hued, tasseled chandelier. Dining is a regal affair at Neel, the all-day restaurant that echoes a contemporary durbar hall. Here, you can savour dishes from the royal Punjabi kitchens and beyond.

At Panache World, we’re particularly excited about how this property allows our clients to not just visit a palace, but to truly live its history. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the grandeur of a bygone era, all while enjoying the impeccable service and luxurious comfort that The Park Hotels and Relais & Châteaux are known for. This is a true pilgrimage for the connoisseur of culture and an unparalleled experience we are proud to offer.