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Chail Overview

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.
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Point of Interest for Chail
Stay in the Chail Palace
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Stay in the Chail Palace

Experience royalty by staying at the majestic Chail Palace which was made during the British era. This palace was built in 1891 by the Maharaja of Patiala as a summer retreat. You can wander through its vast gardens, admire the grand architecture, and enjoy the luxurious rooms that once hosted kings and queens. The palace now serves as a hotel, and offers you a glimpse into the life of regality. The property is adorned with historical furnishings, with amenities such as a regal dining hall and a vintage bar.

Visit the World's Highest Cricket Ground
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Visit the World's Highest Cricket Ground

Take a walk to the Chail Cricket Ground during your visit to this town. It is the world’s highest cricket ground, sitting at 2444 meters above sea level. Established in 1893, it also serves as a playground for the military schools during vacation periods. It is surrounded by towering pine and deodar trees and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The ground is perfect for a quick game with friends or for simply soaking in the soul-warming beauty of this hill station.

Explore the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary
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Explore the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary

Enjoy a trek through the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, home to rich flora and fauna. This sanctuary was built in 1976 and spans over 10,854 hectares of land. Here, you can spot exotic wildlife like the Himalayan black deer and the cheer pheasants while you walk through dense forests. You can also enjoy guided tours and trekking in the sanctuary, making it a perfect adventure spot to explore.

Pray at Kali Ka Tibba
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Pray at Kali Ka Tibba

Hike up to Kali Ka Tibba, a serene temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Positioned atop a hill, it offers some of the most stunning views of the Choor Chandni Peak and the Shivalik Range. It is a place where spirituality meets natural splendour, making it perfect for a tranquil retreat. The temple also attracts pilgrims and tourists alike, providing a peaceful environment for meditation and worship amidst the breathtaking landscapes.

Dine at Sadhupul Lake
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Dine at Sadhupul Lake

Unwind by the picturesque Sadhupul Lake, where you can enjoy a unique dining experience with tables set in the shallow waters. Spanning the lake is a bridge, which adds a rustic charm to the location. The lake also serves as a popular picnic spot, where you can relish local delicacies with your feet dipped in the cool waters. It is an ideal spot for spending a leisurely afternoon with your loved ones. The lake is also a great spot for photography, where you can capture Chail’s natural beauty.

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