In a world where luxury hotels often feel uniform, a truly distinct experience can be found nestled in the heart of Patiala, Punjab in India.
This city, famous for its grand and flamboyant history, holds a secret: Ran Baas, The Palace.
This exquisite property is not a grand, imposing museum but the meticulously restored 19th-century private residence of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh. It was here, away from the formalities of the main Moti Bagh Palace, that the Maharaja hosted his inner circle, creating a space characterised by relaxation and personal connection.
Now, the Maharaja's direct descendants have opened the doors of Ran Baas, The Palace to the public, transforming it from a home into a seven-suite sanctuary. As part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux collection, Ran Baas offers more than five-star service; it offers an intimate, thrillingly alive history, where every detail — from family photographs to the Maharaja’s vintage cars in the driveway — makes you feel less like a guest and more like an honoured confidant of royalty.
In Short: Ran Baas, the Palace is not merely a hotel, but an intimate and exclusive invitation to become an honoured guest in the private 19th-century residence of Patiala's legendary Maharaja, where his family's heritage lives on in every carefully preserved detail.
The Location
Ran Baas, The Palace occupies a privileged setting within the historic Moti Bagh Palace complex. This location immerses guests in the grandeur of Punjab's royal legacy, surrounded by serene gardens and architectural marvels. Its position offers both tranquil seclusion and cultural immediacy, placing guests steps away from the famed Sheesh Mahal and the vibrant, history-rich streets of one of India's most princely cities.
The Background
Exquisitely restored, Ran Baas, The Palace is the 19th-century private residence of the Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala. The story of Ran Baas is what sets it apart. Within its walls, the Maharaja entertained his inner circle in a place of relaxation away from the formalities of the main Moti Bagh Palace. The current custodians, his direct descendants, have created a deeply personal home rather than a museum.
The authentic Indian palace has been painstakingly preserved by renowned local architect Abha Narain Lambah, keeping the property's past vividly alive. The magic lies in details like the family photographs that line the walls, the original Art Deco furnishings, the Maharaja’s personal golf trophies, and his beloved vintage cars parked in the driveway.
The Guests & The Ambiance
Ran Baas guests attracts well-travelled couples and multi-generational families who love history and personal connection as well as five-star service. Guests from Europe, the US and the Gulf are drawn by the prospect of staying in a living heritage site.
The feeling at Ran Baas, The Palace, is one of intimate, living heritage blended seamlessly with serene luxury. Although the interiors are awe-inspiringly beautiful, this hotel does not have the impersonal feeling of a large palace, the atmosphere has deliberately been curated to be that of an exclusive, private home.
The Rooms & Suites
Seven meticulously restored suites, each a homage to Patiala’s royal heritage, are available. They are a world away from standardised hotel rooms, and more like a private chamber within a Maharaja’s personal residence. Modern luxuries ensure comfort without compromising the sense of history.
Beautifully preserved, no two rooms are exactly alike. Suites are adorned with intricate hand-painted murals of parrots and foliage, echoing the style of Mughal miniatures. The names of the suites draw inspiration from the extravagant style of Patiala royalty — particularly the vast jewel collection of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh: Topaz, Pearl and Sapphire for example.
The Dining
High quality and authentic meals are served in the Maharaja’s original dining room or in the courtyard and the menu is based on home-style Punjabi recipes passed down through generations. Fresh local ingredients also feature. Imagine bespoke menus featuring delicate shahi tukda, rich, slow-cooked nihari combined with family stories around the table.
The Staff
Reviews glow with praise for their genuine service and they are proven by a team that is both attentive and unobtrusive. Many of the staff have longstanding ties to the family, and make you feel like an honoured personal visitor to the Maharaja’s home. The team also have a deep knowledge of the palace’s history and local culture which they are happy to share.
The Pricing
Prices start at approximately US$300 - $400 per night for a standard suite on a double occupancy basis, which usually includes breakfast. For their larger or more premium suites, rates can range from US$500 to $700+ per night.
For those seeking the ultimate, private experience, the hotel also offers the option to book the entire palace exclusively, which is a popular choice for families or small groups seeking ultimate privacy. This buyout typically starts at a rate upwards of US$3,000 per night.
Ran Baas, The Palace,
Quila Androon, Adalat Bazar, Patiala, Punjab 147001, India
Prices starting from US$400 per night for a standard suite,
Whilst more premium suites can range from US$500 - 700 per night.
Book your stay here
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