Chail : Himachal Pradesh

Chail, on the Sadh Tiba Hill, is a popular hill station located in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. The hill station is perched at an altitude of 2,226 metres. Located at a distance of 45 km from Shimla, it was once the summer capital of the princely state of Patiala.

History of Chail :

A former summer capital of the princely state of Patiala, Chail is a beautiful hill station situated 63 km from Shimla in the Shiwalik region of Himachal Pradesh. Spread over 72 acres, Chail is spread across three hillocks – Rajgarh, Pandewa and Sadh Tiba. Chail overlooks the valley of Sutlej. Chail enjoys amazingly pleasant climate throughout the year. Chail offers magnificent and panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. It overlooks both Kasauli and Shimla (45 km). Chail was a sleepy little mountain village till its transformation in 1893. It was founded by Maharaja of Patiala Bhupinder Singh. Banished from entering Shimla for eloping with the daughter of Lord Kitchner, the then Commander-in-Chief of the British Indian Army, the Maharaja resolved to build himself a new summer capital better than Shimla. The maharaja ensured that Chail matched Shimla in every respect. Majestic snow-capped Shivalik peaks, beautiful orchards and sylvan pine valleys cast a spell on everyone. Chail Palace, Chail Cricket ground, Chail Military School, etc. are all symbols of Chail’s connection with the erstwhile royal house of Patiala. Chail along with Kufri and Shimla is called the Golden Triangle of Himachal Pradesh. Despite being located close to Shimla, Chail is free from the crowds that throng Shimla and consequently allows travellers to enjoy the scenic beauty and charm of the place in relative peace.

Things to do in Chail :

The world's highest cricket pitch and polo ground was constructed in Chail in 1893, after levelling the top of the hill. Satluj Valley, Shimla and Kasauli are visible from the hill top even at night. The other side of the town has massive Himalayan ranges covered with snow. Hiking, fishing and horse riding are the major activities here. Chail Sanctuary, Cricket ground, Maharaja Palace and Sidh Baba ka Mandir are some of the important tourist attractions of this place. Chail can be visited throughout the year, except winters, when the entire place is covered with snow. May through July and September through November are the flowering seasons, which are suitable for indulging in all kinds of tourist activities.