Attractions: Chail is a small mountainous paradise. It’s fame largely stems from its historical background, breathtaking landscapes, and the sheer variety of experiences it offers visitors. It is dotted with several attractions that offer visitors a blend of history, nature, and adventure. Some of the must-visit places include:
Chail Palace: The Chail Palace, now a heritage hotel, was built in 1891 by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala after he was banished from Shimla by the British. The palace, with its grand architecture and luxurious interiors, reflects the opulence of the royal era. Surrounded by lush greenery and offering panoramic views of the valley, this is one of the top attractions in Chail.
World's Highest Cricket Ground: Another unique feature of Chail is its cricket ground, which stands at an altitude of 2,444 meters, making it the highest cricket ground in the world. Built in 1893, the ground is still used as a playground for the military school, but its uniqueness draws many visitors. The ground is surrounded by deodar forests, adding to the scenic beauty of the place. Visitors are allowed to visit the ground when it’s not in use by the military school.
Peaceful and Less Crowded: Compared to the neighboring tourist-heavy destinations like Shimla, Chail is relatively less crowded, making it a perfect place for a peaceful retreat. The calm environment, coupled with the absence of large commercial setups, enhances its appeal as a tranquil getaway.
Wildlife Sanctuary: The Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, a prominent part of the hill station, houses various species of flora and fauna, including the Himalayan black bear, leopards, and various birds. It is spread over an area of 110 square kilometers. It offers a great opportunity for wildlife lovers to explore the rich biodiversity of the region.
Adventure Activities: Chail also caters to the adventure-loving crowd, offering opportunities for hiking, trekking, and nature walks. The town’s natural trails through dense forests and scenic landscapes make it a hotspot for trekking enthusiasts.
Sidh Baba Ka Mandir: This temple holds great religious significance for the locals. According to legend, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh wanted to build a palace here, but after a vision of a saint (Sidh Baba) warning him not to, he changed his plans and built a temple instead. The temple attracts both devotees and tourists.
Kali Ka Tibba: Located on the highest hill in Chail, Kali Ka Tibba is a famous temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. The temple offers magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and is a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers.
Lover’s Hill and Rajgarh Hill: These are popular spots for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. Both hills offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, making them perfect for picnics, nature walks, and photography.
Gurudwara Sahib Chail: Built by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, this Gurudwara is a serene place to visit. The simple yet elegant architecture, combined with the calm ambiance, makes it an ideal spot for some peaceful moments.
Best Time to Visit Chail: The best time to visit Chail largely depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Summer (March to June) is the peak tourist season in Chail, as the weather during these months is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor activities. Temperatures range between 15°C and 24°C, making it a perfect escape from the heat of the plains. While Chail looks stunning during the monsoon (July to September), with lush greenery all around, the heavy rainfall can sometimes cause landslides, making travel tricky. Chail experiences chilly winters (October to February), with temperatures dropping as low as -2°C. The snowfall transforms Chail into a winter wonderland, making it ideal for those who love the cold and wish to experience snowfall. However, do carry heavy woolens if you’re visiting during this time.
How to Reach Chail: Chail is located in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, around 44 kilometers from Shimla and 106 kilometers from Chandigarh. Chail is well-connected to major cities in northern India by road, rail, and air. Chail is easily accessible by road from Shimla (44 km), Chandigarh (106 km), and Delhi (336 km). The nearest railway station is in Kalka, located around 81 kilometers from Chail. Kalka is well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. From Kalka, one can board toy train too to reach Shimla from where you can reach Chail by cab. The nearest airport is Chandigarh International Airport, which is about 112 kilometers away. Chandigarh is well-connected to other major cities in India by regular flights. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Chail.
Chail offers the perfect mix of serenity, natural beauty, and historical charm. Its unspoiled landscapes, royal heritage, and peaceful ambiance make it a top choice for travelers looking for a quieter alternative to Shimla. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, an adventurous escape, or a peaceful retreat, Chail has something special to offer in every season.