-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org)
Ran Baas, The Palace, Patiala is officially celebrating its first anniversary, marking a significant milestone as Punjab’s very first luxury heritage palace hotel. Since its grand opening in January 2025, the property has transformed into a beacon of heritage-led luxury, demonstrating how historical restoration can be seamlessly integrated with world-class hospitality operations.
Located within the storied walls of the Moti Bagh Palace complex, Ran Baas has spent its inaugural year reviving the cultural and luxury travel identity of Patiala. By foregrounding the city’s royal history, traditional crafts, and unique culinary traditions, the hotel has successfully positioned Patiala as a “must-visit” destination for experiential travelers. The past twelve months have seen the palace host curated cultural events, including “Sur Mahal” and various pop-up fairs, which celebrate the regional music and art of Punjab.
The hotel’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed on the global stage. Within just one year, Ran Baas has secured membership with the prestigious Relais & Châteaux and received accolades from UNESCO’s Prix Versailles. Its design-led restoration has also been recognized by One Michelin Key, AHEAD Asia, Condé Nast Traveller, and Architectural Digest, setting a new benchmark for heritage conservation in India.
Reflecting on the milestone, Priya Paul, Chairperson of Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Limited, stated: “Ran Baas, The Palace holds special significance for us, as the Apeejay Surrendra Group began its journey on Punjab’s soil in Jalandhar in 1910. Our focus has always been to honour Patiala’s history with sensitivity, allowing the palace to speak through design, art, and experience. As it completes its first year, Ran Baas, The Palace has supported local craftsmanship, cultural expression, and destination development, while offering guests an interpretation of palace life, modern living.”
From a commercial perspective, the hotel has shown remarkable strength in its first year. Vijay Dewan, Managing Director of Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Limited, added: “Ran Baas, The Palace reflects our long-term vision of unlocking value from heritage hotels through thoughtful restoration and disciplined operations. In the first year the hotel has received world recognition in the business of running luxury palaces. It has recorded a healthy mix of domestic and international guests, a clear brand differentiation, and sustained demand across leisure, celebrations, and experiential travel segments.”
As it moves into its second year, Ran Baas remains dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Patiala royal family while offering a sophisticated, modern sanctuary for guests seeking the pinnacle of Indian heritage hospitality.
