PATIALA - PUNJAB

The erstwhile capital of one of India's richest princely states, Patiala is an ancient city with a modern face. Amidst modern institutions and buildings, concrete roads and gardens stand the magnificent forts and palaces dating back to the 18th century.The present day city can also be descried as commercial center for consumer goods.

HISTORY

The early history of the Patiala state is considered more of a myth than fact. Baba Ala Singh, a man with vision and courage assumed the leadership in 1714 and carved out an independent principality from a petty Zamindari of 30 villages. His successors were instrumental in the expansion of Patiala into a big state. The state's borders touched the Shivaliks in north, Rajasthan in the South and upper courses of the Jamuna and Sutlej.

The state of Patiala assumed prominence on the Indian map during the reign of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh (1900-1930). The rich architectural legacy of the place is to his credit only. Also his son facilitated the process of natural integration of the state by    signing the instrument of accession.

PLACES TO VISIT

1. Rajpura, located midway between Patiala and Chandigarh. It is an old Mogul outpost with a dilapidated fort. It is an important town today. It has manufacturing units for cables, tyres and a whole range of agro-products.

2. Nabha-- It is renowned for its Old Palace that has now been converted into a Government College. The Royal Guest House and High Court Complex located here have also become parts of a public School. Hira Mahal, the residence of the ruling family preserves antique cars, and fascinating murals on the inside walls.

3. Qila Mubarak -- Built in 1764, by Maharaja Amar Singh, the fort has two portions. Qila Androon is the inner fort and Qila Mubarak, the outer. The gate of Qila Androon is done in lime plaster with geometrical and floral designs on it. Inside the fort are two painted chambers illustrating scenes from Hindu mythology and portraits of Sikh Gurus in Patiala style. Also a part of the fort is a museum of chandeliers and famous weapons.

4. Motibagh Palace -- It was the residence of former rulers of Patiala. Today, it accommodates the National institute of Sports. It also houses a museum of antique arts and the artifacts along with the world's greatest collection of medals.

5. Mogul Serai, Shambhu - It is located at about 11 km from Rajpura on Rajpura- Ambala G.T. Road. Built during the Mogul times, this inn has two majestic gates with a mosque in the center and 'bowli' (paved well). It is a protected monument.

6. Bahadurgarh Fort -- It stands to commemorate the visit of the 9th Sikh Guru, Shri Tegh Bahadur. It was constructed by Nawab Saif Khan in 1658 A.D. and rebuilt in 1837 A.D. by Maharaja Karam Singh. Located at 6 km from Patiala town on Patiala-Chandigarh road, the fort is enclosed by 2 circular ramparts, 110 feet apart with a moat, 58 feet wide.

7. Chattbir Zoo -- It On Chandigarh-Patiala highway is the Chattbir Zoo. The Zoo is the largest simulated natural habitat of the animals and birds in the northern India. Its major attractions are a deer park and a lion safari.

8. Ghuram -- It is a village in Patiala District and known to be the hometown of Mata Kaushalya. The place is replete with archaeological ruins.