In a significant international recognition, Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels has announced that Ran Baas, The Palace in Patiala has been named one of the World’s Most Beautiful Hotels for 2025 by the prestigious Prix Versailles Awards during the 11th edition of the Global Architecture and Design competition, which operates under the patronage of UNESCO and the International Union of Architects.
Ran Baas, The Palace was the only Indian property to be selected in this year’s global list – a recognition that underscores its extraordinary blend of heritage and design. The palace hotel, now a member of the elite Relais & Châteaux collection, has been lauded for its architectural significance and the thoughtful restoration of what is considered the oldest surviving Sikh fort in Punjab.
The property’s selection is a milestone for Indian luxury hospitality. “This recognition speaks volumes about our commitment to cultural preservation and design-led hospitality,” said a spokesperson from THE Park Hotels, the group behind the project.
Know all about Ran Baas, The Palace in Patiala
Originally built as a military outpost, the centuries-old fort had fallen into disrepair over the years. However, its historic essence has been meticulously revived in a restoration project led by THE Park Hotels. Now home to 35 opulent suites, Ran Baas, The Palace seamlessly marries the architectural aesthetics of late Mughal, Rajput, Sikh, and Colonial styles, offering guests a stay that is both culturally immersive and luxuriously modern.
“The hotel embodies the spirit of Punjab’s royal past while embracing contemporary luxury,” the hotel’s design team noted.
Architectural elegance with a modern soul
Each of the 35 suites is a carefully curated experience blending intricate woodwork, regal textiles, and antique-style furnishings with state-of-the-art amenities. The architectural integrity of the original fort has been preserved while reimagining it for today’s luxury traveler. The result is a rare harmony of history and modernity, with design that evokes grandeur while prioritizing comfort.
Prix Versailles jurors praised Ran Baas for “flawlessly blending historical preservation with modern luxury,” stating that the property “exemplifies how heritage landmarks can be revitalized as high-end hospitality destinations without compromising their cultural value.”
Celebrating Punjab’s heritage
Cultural immersion lies at the heart of the Ran Baas experience. Guests can dine at Neel, the hotel’s signature restaurant, where a menu of globally inspired dishes infused with Indian flavors is served in an atmosphere of quiet sophistication. Meanwhile, The Patiala bar offers a vibrant taste of regional culture with live traditional music, dance performances, and craft cocktails that nod to the heritage of the land.
The recognition from Prix Versailles positions Ran Baas, The Palace as a new benchmark in India’s luxury travel sector, proving that design and heritage can go hand in hand. It reflects a broader trend of cultural tourism where travelers are increasingly drawn to places that offer a sense of place and purpose, not just luxury.
This international accolade also spotlights India’s growing presence in global hospitality. “This is more than just a hotel. It’s a living museum, a sanctuary of elegance, and a statement of what Indian luxury can represent on the world stage,” said a hospitality analyst familiar with the project.
Located in Patiala, a city famed for its regal past, Ran Baas is easily accessible via a short flight from Delhi or Jaipur, followed by a convenient drive from Chandigarh Airport. Room rates begin at Rs 40,000 per night (approximately £360), offering an exclusive experience to those seeking historical richness with contemporary luxury.
Whether you are a history buff, design enthusiast, or leisure traveler, Ran Baas, The Palace offers a unique opportunity to step into the pages of Punjab’s royal legacy.
