Ram Bagh & Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum / Panorama

History

Ram Bagh—locally known as Company Bagh—was laid out in the early 1800s as the summer garden of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Inspired by Mughal char-bagh planning, it featured water channels, fountains, tree-lined avenues, pavilions, gateways and watchtowers, creating a serene counterpart to the bustle of historic Amritsar.

At its heart stands the former royal residence (Ram Bagh Mahal), later adapted as the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum with arms, coins, manuscripts, and paintings. Nearby, the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama offers an immersive circular gallery narrating the rise of the Sikh Empire with dioramas, sound and light.

Ram Bagh Today

Status & Protection: The garden–palace ensemble is protected as a State and National monument. While the park functions as a public green, conservation of key structures is overseen by heritage authorities.

Architectural Ensemble: The precinct includes the two-storey Summer Palace (with basement), Hammam (bath-house), Deorhis (gateways), remains of perimeter walls and towers, the Macchi Ghar (British-era aquarium), Munshikhana (office), and pavilions. Over time, some additions and leases from colonial times introduced non-heritage uses; restoration efforts continue.

What to Expect

Stroll shaded paths, then explore the museum’s arms, coins, manuscripts, portraits and maps. The Panorama uses lighting and sound to depict moments from the Sikh Empire—plan extra time if you enjoy immersive storytelling. Evenings are pleasant for garden walks, especially in summer.