Patiala: Moti Bagh Palace & Sheesh Mahal in Punjab

Patiala

It was founded in 1753, by Maharaja Ala Singh and named Patiala, literally the territory (pati) of Ala. In 1948, it became the capital of a new state, PEPSU (Patiala and East Punjab States Union), created by merging the princely states of East Punjab. The rulers of Patiala were great patrons of art and crafts, which made the city an important centre of Punjabi language and culture.
Moti Bagh Palace : The magnificent palace in Indo-Saracenic style was completed in early 20th century and is one of the largest residences in Asia. It is surrounded by beautiful terraced gardens and water channels. The main palace now houses the National Institute of Sports and Sports Museum.


Sheesh Mahal : The charming palace near a small lake was built during the reign of Maharaja Narinder Singh (1845-1862). Its interiors are beautifully embellished with pieces of glass and mirror (sheesh). An Art Gallery here displays antique paintings, bronzes, sculptures and portraits of the Maharajas of Patiala. World’s largest collection of medals, decoration and orders of various countries are exhibited here.

Reaching there:
By Air
The nearest airport is located in the city of Chandigarh. You can take a flight to the airport in Chandigarh and can take a taxi or bus from there to Patiala. There are many domestic flights to Chandigarh as this is an important airport, and the airport is well connected to all Indian cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai and Bangalore.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Patiala. There are regular trains from the cities of Mumbai, Chandigarh and Delhi and train fares will cost around Rs 450 to 550 (approx.). You can take air conditioned coaches or normal coaches, and tickets need to be booked well in advance.
By Road
Travelling to Patiala from local destinations through bus can be easy. Buses to Patiala will charge fares of around Rs 150 to 250 (approx.) within Punjab.

Amritsar-Golden Temple in Punjab

The magnificent temple complex set in the ‘heart’ of Amritsar is the holiest shrine of the Sikhs. Its foundation was laid in 1588, by the fifth Sikh Guru Arjun Dev ji on a small island in the waters of Amrit Sarovar and was consecrated on August 16, 1604. The gurudwara complex is a fine blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture and is regarded as one of the most tastefully decorated shrines of the world. Darshani Deori, the northern gateway with two splendidly carved silver doors is the main entrance. It also houses the Central Sikh Museum. The main shrine called as Harmandar or Darbar Sahib is set in the middle of sacred Amrit Sarovar pond. The original copy of Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhs is kept covered under a jeweled canopy at the Darbar Sahib during the day and is returned ceremoniously to the Akal Takht at night. Guru-ka-Langar, the massive community kitchen overlooking the eastern entrance of the temple complex is a must visit site.