Image Source: Rohit Markande
About Moti Bagh Palace
Moti Bagh Palace is one of the grandest royal residences in Punjab. The translation to the garden palace of pearls is a testament to the wealth, taste, and power of the Patiala rulers. The palace is not just a thriving cultural hub but also echoes the legacy of the Phulkian dynasty.
History
Moti Bagh Palace was built in the mid-19th century during the reign of Maharaja Narinder Singh (1845–1862). He envisioned it as a sprawling royal residence and pleasure palace.
With time several successors contributed to the expansion and embellishment of the structure. The most notable among them is the reign of Maharaja Narinder Singh (1845–1862). He was a flamboyant ruler who was known for his lavish lifestyle, grand architecture, and contribution to Patiala’s modern identity.
Moti Bagh served as the principal residence of the royal family until the construction of New Moti Bagh Palace, which remains the private residence of the royal descendants today.
Architecture
Moti Bagh Palace is one of the largest royal residences in India—rivalling many princely estates of Rajasthan and Central India.
A Majestic Blend of Styles
The palace showcases a striking mix of Mughal , Rajasthani , and European architectural influences.
It features arched windows, jharokhas (balconies), chhatris (domed kiosks), and expansive courtyards.
The grand facade is flanked by towers, domes, and intricately carved balconies.
Expansive Grounds
True to its name (‘Bagh’ meaning garden), the palace is surrounded by well-laid lawns, gardens, water channels, and terraces — a nod to Mughal charbagh-style landscaping.
Decorative Details
Inside, Moti Bagh boasts richly decorated halls, marble staircases, grand chandeliers, murals, and antique furniture—all speaking of royal opulence.
Scale and Layout
With over 1,000 rooms , sprawling courtyards, and multiple wings, Moti Bagh once accommodated royal guests, courtiers, and large retinues of staff.
Moti Bagh and the National Institute of Sports
A unique feature of Moti Bagh Palace is that a major part of its historic building now houses the famous Netaji Subhas National Institute of Sports (NIS) — India’s premier sports training institute.
Originally known as the Patiala State Sports Institute , it was renamed after Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
The institute trains India’s top athletes and coaches and hosts sports events, adding new life to the palace grounds.
The palace also contains a sports museum that showcases trophies, historic sports gear, and memorabilia from India’s sporting legends.
Location & Visitor Experience
Where: Located about 2 km from the heart of Patiala city, Moti Bagh is easily accessible by road and close to other royal landmarks like Sheesh Mahal and Qila Mubarak.
Why Travelers Love Moti Bagh Palace
A Royal Legacy — Walk through the palace grounds to imagine the grandeur of Patiala’s Maharajas at their peak.
Architectural Grandeur — The sheer scale, arches, domes, and gardens make it a photographer’s delight.
Cultural Events — Moti Bagh grounds often host heritage festivals, art shows, and fairs.
Sports Heritage — The NIS adds an unexpected twist — you might spot athletes training or visit the small sports museum.
Visitor Details
Entry: Parts of the palace are used by the NIS, so full public access inside the main halls is limited. The gardens, sports museum, and outer architecture can generally be seen.
Timings: Open during the day; check locally if you wish to see the sports museum.
Photography: Allowed in outdoor areas — the facade, arches, domes, and gardens are very photogenic.
Best Time to Visit
October–March is ideal — the weather is pleasant and the gardens are green.
If you’re lucky, you may catch cultural events like the Patiala Heritage Festival , held in the palace or its lawns.
Nearby Heritage Spots to Combine
When you visit Moti Bagh, you can easily combine:
Sheesh Mahal—famous for its mirrors and miniatures is nearby.
Qila Mubarak—the oldest fort in Patiala.
Baradari Gardens—another lush royal-era garden.
The vibrant Patiala bazaars—famous for phulkari, juttis, and Patiala peg!
Moti Bagh Palace isn’t just a building—it’s a grand statement of Patiala’s royal legacy and cultural pride. Even today, it remains a living palace—training India’s sports champions on grounds once walked by kings.