Chail
Located near Shimla, Chail is a serene hill station in the lush pine and deodar forest of Himachal Pradesh. The place is known for its untouched beauty, royal heritage, and breathtaking Himalayan views.
Chail was once the summer capital of the Maharaja of Patiala and today its stand as one of the most peaceful hill gateways in North India. Whether you’re a nature lover, a trekker, or someone seeking solitude, Chail offers a perfect mix of scenic charm and regal history.
Geography and Overview
Surrounded by dense forests, Chail is situated at an altitude of around 2,250 meters in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. The town offers unparallel panaromic views of the Shivalik Hills, Satluj Valley, and snow-clad peaks during winter. Unlike its crowded neighbor Shimla, Chail remains calm and unspoiled, making it ideal for slow travel and rejuvenation.
Best time to visit Chail
March to June: Pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and trekking.
October to February: Winter brings snow and a magical landscape.
Monsoon (July–September): Offers misty beauty but occasional landslides; travel with caution.
Top Attractions in Chail
Chail Palace
Built in 1891 by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala, the Chail Palace is the crown jewel of the town. The architecture blends British and royal Indian styles, surrounded by sprawling lawns and scenic mountain backdrops. Today, it operates as a heritage hotel, allowing visitors to experience royal living amidst nature.
Chail Cricket Ground
Situated at a height of 2,444 meters, this is the highest cricket ground in the world. Built in 1893, it offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding valleys and is occasionally used for school matches and military training.
Chail Wildlife Sanctuary
Spread over 10,000 hectares, this sanctuary is home to deer, goral, wild boar, and Himalayan black bear. It’s a paradise for wildlife photographers and trekkers who enjoy walking through cedar-covered trails and spotting exotic bird species.
Kali Ka Tibba (Kali Temple)
Perched on a hilltop, Kali Ka Tibba offers breathtaking views of the Choor Chandni Peak and Shivalik Range. The temple dedicated to Goddess Kali is a must-visit for both devotees and photographers, especially during sunset.
Things to Do in Chail
Visit historic forts like Murud-Janjira and Kolaba Fort.
Experience camping by the beach under starry skies.
Try authentic Konkani cuisine and fresh seafood like pomfret, crab curry, and fish thali.
Explore hidden villages and local markets for handmade crafts and local pickles.
Local Cuisine
Enjoy forest hikes and nature walks through deodar trails.
Visit the Chail Palace for heritage architecture and scenic photography.
Go for trekking to Gaura Peak or Jhajja Trek.
Explore bird watching and wildlife photography in the Chail Sanctuary.
Experience horse riding and camping under the Himalayan sky.
Relish local Himachali cuisine, including siddu, madra, and babru.
Where to Stay
Accommodation in Chail ranges from luxury heritage hotels to budget homestays and eco-lodges.
Luxury: Chail Palace, Maple Resort, Fernhill Resort.
Mid-range: Ekant Retreat, Village Live-in Resort.
Budget: Homestays and guesthouses run by local families offering authentic Himachali hospitality.
Camping options are also available for those who want to experience the wilderness up close.
How to Reach Chail?
BY ROAD
Chail is well-connected by road and lies 44 km from Shimla, 45 km from Solan, and 106 km from Chandigarh. You can drive through Kandaghat-Chail Road, which offers mesmerizing mountain views.
BY TRAIN
The nearest railway station is Kandaghat, located around 25 km away. It lies on the Kalka–Shimla narrow-gauge route, a UNESCO World Heritage railway. From Kandaghat, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Chail.
BY AIR
The nearest airport is Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti), about 63 km away. Alternatively, Chandigarh International Airport (around 120 km away) offers better connectivity with major Indian cities.
Top Tourist Attractions in Chail
Chail, a tranquil hill station in Himachal Pradesh, is renowned for its pine and deodar forests, scenic mountain views, and royal heritage sites. Known for its peaceful environment, nature trails, and the world’s highest cricket ground, Chail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure activities, and historic attractions. Whether you’re exploring the Chail Palace, enjoying wildlife spotting in the sanctuary, or relaxing amidst the Himalayan landscapes, Chail’s top tourist attractions promise a refreshing mountain getaway.
Sidh Baba Ka Mandir
Sidh Baba Ka Mandir is a spiritual heaven located in the landscape of Chail….. Read More
Must Vist Places around Chail
The areas surrounding Chail are dotted with charming hill destinations, scenic viewpoints, and culturally rich spots that enhance any Himalayan getaway. From the vibrant streets of Shimla and the peaceful trails of Kufri to the picturesque landscapes of Kasauli and serene temples tucked in the hills, these nearby attractions offer a blend of nature, adventure, and heritage. Exploring the must-visit places around Chail adds depth to your trip, letting you experience the broader beauty of the Himachal Himalayas.
