Places of Interest : Cricket Ground, Wildlife Sanctuary, Sai Baba Temple Best Time to Visit : Mid-May to Mid-October
Chail is a hill station located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated at an altitude of about 2,250 meters (7,382 feet) above sea level, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking peace, natural beauty, and a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Chail is known for its picturesque landscapes, surrounded by lush forests of pine and cedar trees. It is also famous for the Chail Palace, which was built by the Maharaja of Patiala and now serves as a heritage hotel. One of the major attractions is the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to various species of flora and fauna, including the Himalayan monal, the state bird of Himachal Pradesh.
Chail is also known for having the highest cricket ground in the world, which was built by Maharaja Bhuri Singh in the early 20th century. This ground is often used for cricket matches and other sports events.
Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or adventure seeker, Chail offers a variety of attractions and activities, making it a must-visit place for anyone traveling to Himachal Pradesh.
Prime Attractions
Sai Baba Temple : Maharaja Bhupinder Singh had originally intended this to be the site of his palace, and had even started building it, but as is believed, a `sidh', saintly person appeared in the Maharaja's dream, and declared that this was the place where he had meditated. As a result, Bhupinder Singh shifted his venue and built a temple on the spot.
Cricket Ground : Built in 1893, after levelling a hilltop, this cricket pitch at 2444 m is the world's highest cricket and polo ground.
Wildlife Sanctuary : Ghoral, kakkar, sambhar, red jungle fowl, and khalij, cheer pheasants are some of the inhabitants of the Chail wildlife sanctuary.
Kufri : A long and enjoyable drive through lush forests and quaint villages takes one to the small but thoroughly popular hill station of Kufri. Its main attractions are the Himalayan Nature Park, and the exciting trek and horse rides that leads to the divine Mahasu peak.
Sadhupul: Halfway between Kandaghat and Chail is the tiny village of Sadhupul, and the bridge over the Ashwani stream, a popular picnic - spot.
ADVENTURE
Several trek routes lead out of Chail up to the Choor peak and to Simla. During winters, skiing is possible at Narkanda. The Giri river at Gaura, 29 km away, is ideal for fishing - enthusiasts.
HOW TO GET THERE
Air : The nearest airports are at Chandigarh (120 km), and Simla (63 km).
Road : From Simla via Kufri the distance is 45 km and via Kandaghat the distance is 61 km. Kalka is 86 km away. Regular buses for Chail leave from Simla, Chandigarh, and Delhi.