Patiala's pride monument has just gained recognition on the world map. Ran Baas, the majestically restored palace nestled inside the ancient Qila Mubarak complex, has been selected as one of the World's Most Beautiful Hotels of 2025 by the renowned Prix Versailles, an award backed by UNESCO and the International Union of Architects.
And here's the part that put India in smugness: it's the only Indian property to make it to this year's list.
A palace with tales carved in stone
Construction of Qila Mubarak in 1763 has witnessed centuries of royal glory. Ran Baas, formerly a secluded enclave within the fortress, is now restored to its former grandeur, with the kind of restoration that captures every last nuance of its royal past, yet imparts to it the sheen of modern luxury.
What lies within
Ran Baas has total 35 suites in the palace, all over 1,000 sq ft, majestic but never ostentatious, with arched windows letting in slivers of golden light and high ceilings whispering secrets of another era. Every room transports you to Patiala's past royal grandeur, yet without denying you the comforts of today.
Foodies will seek out Neel, where traditional Indian flavors are paired with high-end plating, or The Patiala Bar, where a cocktail is served with a bow to the state's colorful history.
A win for India on the international stage
"Being shortlisted for the Prix Versailles is almost like a win of the Oscars of architecture," brags one of the restoration team members. For India, it's a testament to the country's incomparable architectural heritage and a reminder that it must be preserved with vision and respect.
By the end of 2024, Ran Baas will start welcoming visitors between ₹40,000 per night. Located within driving distance of Chandigarh, it is not just a visit; it's a dip into the spirit of Punjab's royal heritage.
This triumph is not about a hotel. It is about a gasping masterpiece of Indian heritage proud among the world's finest, a palace that has traded whispers of the past for today's applause.
