Ruchiraa Sharma
09-Jun-2026
Ran Baas, The Palace, Patiala, is a grand metamorphosis of a derelict, abandoned fort into the first luxury palace hotel of the region.
Inputs by: Ruchiraa Sharma, Founder, Zenyth Media House
Visiting erstwhile royal forts and palaces is like taking a journey through time and space. However, in the historic city of Patiala, with its 300-year-old legacy, this journey, this peek into a bygone era, feels profoundly personal. Patiala stands tall as a living testament to historical grandeur and regal heritage. Founded by Baba Ala Singh—originally named 'Pati Ala', meaning 'the land of Baba Ala Singh'—the city gradually transformed into a majestic royal kingdom. Patiala is a unique melting pot of Rajput, Mughal, and Sikh architectural and cultural influences.
The Maharajas of Patiala were amongst the wealthiest of all Indian royalty – patrons of art, the Patiala gharana of music and, of course, the famous Punjabi cuisine and the Patiala peg! While many forts and palaces narrate the fascinating tales of the Maharajas who once reigned here, one name remains a global household legend: Maharaja Bhupinder Singh. The last royal to ascend the throne before independence, he was known worldwide for his inherent love for opulence, a weakness for excess, and a passionate sporting spirit. He lived a king-sized life accompanied by numerous wives and a purpose-built seraglio of 350 concubines and a fleet of custom-built rolls Royce’s . The famous ‘Patiala Necklace’, one of the most expensive pieces of jewellery ever designed, was created for him by the house of Cartier in 1928.
For the modern connoisseur seeking a peek into the luxurious, epicurean lifestyle of the man behind the legendary Patiala peg, a visit to the 10 acre complex of Qila Mubarak that houses Ran Baas, the palace, is a must-do.
(Ran Baas, The Palace, Moulsari Garden)
The Resurrection of a Royal Sanctuary: The Ran Baas Palace
Following independence in 1947, as princely titles were dissolved, Patiala's grand architectural heritage unfortunately fell into deep dilapidation and neglect. For 80 years, Qila Mubarak faced abandonment and its walls crumbled and its very foundation was threatened.
The turning point came in 2013 when the government appointed conservation architects Abha Narain Lambah Associates to restore the palace. Over a meticulous three years, the team revived traditional building practices. Local artisans were trained to restore historic masonry walls using authentic lakhori bricks and lime mortars, recast collapsed slabs with traditional brick vaulting and jack arches, and recreate historic finishes using traditional araish and lime plaster. In 2021, Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Ltd stepped in, taking the palace on lease from the Punjab Government under a public-private partnership (PPP) model to reposition Ran Baas as a premier heritage hotel. Ms Priya Paul herself spearheaded the restoration and collaborated once more with Abha Narain Lambah to redesign the interiors. Needless to say, the restoration process was rewarding but arduous and involved working with master craftsmen, skilled artisans, contractors, and contemporary Indian designers to restore lost glory while adding modern amenities. The stately building also incorporates sustainable practices like water and waste recycling systems.
(Ran Baas, The Palace, Patiala, Sheesh Mahal)
The design palette blended traditional Indian cusped arches with sleek European furniture and Victorian touches, thus paying an ode to Maharaja Bhupinder Singh's eclectic personality. The final outcome was definitely worth the wait; after 80 years of neglect, Ran Baas, the palace, is a grand metamorphosis of a derelict, abandoned fort into the first luxury palace hotel of the region.
The Ran Baas Palace: What to Expect?
The property features 35 individually designed rooms and suites, each inspired by exquisite royal gemstones. From regal wallpapers inspired by the fort's historic murals to intricate jharokha windows and towering columns, all are illuminated by bespoke lighting solutions that accentuate the lofty ceilings. If you are in Patiala, then you have to try the Patiala peg; the bar is a study in opulence, with black Italian marble floors, charcoal grey walls, rich gold accents, burgundy velvet, and silk damask fabrics. Guests can also escape to an outdoor swimming pool, a well-appointed fitness centre, or a serene, full-service spa tucked within the old Lassi Khana courtyard. The haven offers deep-tissue massages, aromatherapy, detox wraps, a sauna, and a steam room.
(Ran Baas, The Palace, Pool)
Dining at Ran Baas is less about simple indulgence and more about authentic storytelling. The menu draws deeply from Punjabi culinary heritage and regional traditions, elevating home-style comfort into fine dining.
Signature Dishes to Try:
The kitchen also demonstrates a remarkable sensitivity to individual guest preferences, adapting flavours without losing traditional authenticity.
(Ran Baas, The Palace, The Patiala Bar)
Conscious Luxury & Community Sustenance
One can wake up to breathtaking views of lush green gardens and the happy sound of ducks quacking and indulge in a lavish buffet breakfast, while afternoons call for an elegant high tea at sunset as the sky softens into gold. For truly special occasions, the hotel also curates highly cinematic, private dinners under the stars, made magical with custom fireworks in the sky for special occasions.
True luxury lies in intention rather than over-the-top grandeur; it is the small personal touches that make the stay at Ran Baas memorable. There are no hurried check-ins or transactional welcomes here. Instead, you are greeted with the royal chaatri and fragrant rose petals, followed by a refreshing welcome drink. The deluxe suite guests and higher categories are assigned a personal butler who remembers and anticipates preferences with quiet, unassuming grace.
Final Words
As you leave, you carry away the unmistakable feeling of having been, if only for a brief moment, an integral part of a grand, royal world. In a heartwarming gesture that underscores the property’s inclusive philosophy, four-legged companions are welcomed as honoured guests. The palace is also pet-friendly, allowing your furry companions to soak in the regal splendour. If you are looking for a royal retreat or a majestic getaway, then RanBaas is worth a visit. True to its name—Ran Baas, or “abode of the queens”—the property envelops you in an atmosphere that is both intimate and indulgent.
The palace stay that doesn’t just showcase royalty—it lets you live it.
