Sheesh Mahal, a residential palace, was built during the reign of Maharaja Narinder Singh in 1847. It is a three storied building with terraces, gardens, fountains and an artificial lake. The mahal is decorated with extremely beautiful and delicate reflecting mirrors and a number of wall paintings from both
Rajasthan and
Kangra.
There are two watchtowers at either end and a suspension bridge, modeled after the Lakshman Jhula at Rishikesh. The lake is connected to Banasar Ghar, where all type of stuffed animals is kept.
The murals of the mahal portray the themes from religion and mythology. It has galleries displaying antique paintings, bronzes, sculptures and portraits of the Maharajas of Patiala. A collection of more than 3,000 medals and coins from across the world, dating from the 12th to the 20th centuries, is worth seeing.
Sheesh Mahal is easily accessible from Patiala Railway Station and Patiala Bus Station. The nearest airport is Chandigarh Airport at Chandigarh.
