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Old Moti Bagh

Moti Bagh Palace was built by Maharaja of Patiala in 1840. Its construction was started under the rule of Maharaja Narinder Singh and it was completed at the time of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh in the initial years of 20th century.

The expense of construction of Old Moti palace was about Rs. 5 lakh. It was taken as the primary residence for Patiala’s royal families till late 40’s and after that is was converted into New Moti Bagh Palace. Thus, it became the permanent abode for the Maharaja of Patiala and for his family. It was donated by Maharaja Yadavindra Singh to Government of India after independence and Government converted it into a museum, gallery of taxidermy and a cultural centre by the name of North Zone Cultural Centre (NZCC).

About Old Moti Palace in Patiala

Old Moti Bagh Palace is one of the oldest constructions of excellent architecture and it was the residence for royal families of Patiala. Today, it is used as a sports institute by the name of Netaji Subash National Institute of Sports i.e. NIS. The craftsman of this building is exemplary of the work of Indian artisans. It is recounted as one of the largest and most handsome residences of ancient times.

New Moti Bagh Palace was later built close to Old Moti Bagh Palace and it spans an area of 160 acres. This palace is at the distance of 2 km from Old Moti Palace and is used as a residence for people of political relevance.

Site & Architecture of Old Moti Palace

Moti Bagh Palace is counted as one of the most attractive and well known tourist places in Patiala. A four storied composition, this palace is designed wonderfully with gigantic stone walls and its opening is in the shape of an arch. It has a decorative beautiful front area which has been assembled with Rajasthani structural design and lots of Chattris along with Jharokhas.

The grills around and in the palace, give a clean and ornamental look. This palace was planned like Lahore’s famous Shalimar Garden. The plan was to have terraces, water channels, beautiful gardens and Sheesh Mahal. As planned, old Moti Bagh has many terraces that still memorialize the golden days of Maharaja of Patiala and royal families that enjoyed an evening walk on these terraces. In the surroundings of Patiala are many water ways and beautifully decorated gardens where one can enjoy peace, calm and the beauty of nature.

Best Time to Visit

A trip to North India, particularly Punjab, is best undertaken during winters. Likewise, Patiala is also best visited during the winters—between November and February. During these months, the average temperature stays around 15° and 20°C. Days are pleasant at this time. Patiala rarely gets very hot, so even the rest of the year isn't too bad to enjoy this historical city.

Timing

Old Moti Bagh Palace is open for all the days in a week. It is closed only on Monday. The timings to visit this beautiful place are from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
To see the place you need 1 to 2 hours.

How to Reach


By Air

The airport closest to Patiala is at Chandigarh. One can take a flight to Chandigarh Airport and from there take a taxi or bus to Patiala. There are a lot of domestic flights to Chandigarh and the airport is well associated to all the major cities of India such as Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi and Chennai.

By Train

Patiala has its own railway station so one can get here by rail. There are regular trains to Patiala from cities like Mumbai, Chandigarh and Delhi with normal fare.

By Bus

Patiala is close to Chandigarh and nearby areas. One can drive down to Patiala from here or take a state transport bus.

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