CHAIL

Chail is a hill station in Himachal Pradesh that offers a quiet retreat far from the bustling city life. Nestled in the mountains, it is known for being home to the world's highest cricket ground and the majestic Chail Palace. Perfect for those seeking peace or adventure in nature, Chail also provides opportunities for trekking and camping. It is a great place to visit to reconnect with nature and enjoy the tranquillity of the surrounding pine forests and mountains.

Nestled in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, Chail is a quaint hill station that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located just 45 kilometres from Shimla, the town is surrounded by lush pine and deodar forests. Chail is home to the famous Chail Palace, which was built by the Maharaja of Patiala in 1891. He transformed this palace into his summer retreat after he was banished from Shimla. Additionally, it is also known for being home to the Chail Cricket Ground, which ranks as the world's highest cricket ground, at an altitude of 2,444 metres.

For nature enthusiasts, Chail also boasts a wildlife sanctuary home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. This is an ideal spot for wildlife photography and bird-watching. The town's serene atmosphere is complemented by the majestic views of the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect setting for trekking and camping. With its rich history, unique attractions, and tranquil environment, Chail is a gem waiting to be explored. For those planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh, Chail is a must-visit destination included in various Himachal tour packages.

Highlights

• Stroll through Chail Palace, once the summer retreat of the Maharaja of Patiala, which now serves as a popular and luxurious hotel.
• Play cricket or just marvel at the world's highest cricket ground, surrounded by majestic deodar trees and lush hills.
• Enjoy a trek to Kali Ka Tibba, which offers panoramic views of the Shivalik Range.
• Spot diverse wildlife like the goral and red jungle fowl at the well-maintained Chail Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Relish a unique experience at Sadhupul Lake as you dine amidst its cool and calm waters.

How To Reach

By Air: The nearest major airport to Chail is Chandigarh's Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, approximately 118.1 kilometres away. From here, you can hire a taxi or catch a bus to Chail, which takes about 3 to 4 hours. Alternatively, Shimla Airport in Jubbarhatti is a closer but smaller airport. It is around 60.6 kilometres from Chail, and offers limited flights. From Shimla, it takes around 2 to 2.5 hours to reach Chail by road.

By Road: Chail is well-connected to major cities like Chandigarh (106.9 kilometres) and Delhi (336.9 kilometres). From Delhi, take NH 44 to Chandigarh and then NH 5 towards Shimla, followed by state roads leading to Chail. The journey from Delhi to Chail by road takes 7 to 8 hours. Regular bus services, including Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses as well as private operators, run from New Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla to Chail.

By Train: The nearest major railway station is Kalka, located about 39.8 kilometres from Chail. From Kalka, you can hire a taxi or catch a bus to reach Chail, which takes around 1 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can opt for the scenic Kalka-Shimla toy train to Shimla and then proceed to Chail by road. Shimla is approximately 45 kilometres from Chail, and the road trip takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.

Best Time To Visit

Chail is perfect for visiting any time of the year, with each season offering a unique charm.

Best Season: The ideal time to visit Chail is during the summer, from April to June. The temperature is pleasant during this time, ranging between 15°C and 24°C. This makes these months ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing as well.

Best Day of the Week: You can visit Chail all through the week. Weekdays, however, are more ideal, due to lesser tourists and rush.

Best Time of Day: Mornings are magical in Chail, with fresh air and comfortable weather. Additionally, evenings are equally enchanting. The sunset views during this time are spectacular. 

Other Essential Information

• Carry warm clothing as it can get quite chilly in Chail, especially in the evenings and mornings.
• Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to go trekking in Chail.
• Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season (April to June) to secure your stay.
• Stay hydrated and carry water bottles during your explorations.
• Respect local customs and traditions, especially while visiting religious sites like temples.
• Check weather forecasts before planning outdoor activities to avoid unexpected rain.