Ever dreamed of escaping to a quiet hill station where pine forests whisper royal secrets and the air feels like a soft mountain hug? Welcome to Chail, Himachal Pradesh’s best-kept secret, tucked away just an hour’s drive from the tourist-heavy lanes of Shimla.
Chail might at first glance appear to be nothing more than another sleepy mountain town, but behind its pine-covered slopes and misty atmosphere lies a story of royal rivalry, architectural aspiration, and natural beauty.
Perched at 2,444 metres above sea level, it’s also home to the highest cricket ground in the world — an unexpected twist that perfectly sums up Chail’s offbeat blend of history, whimsy, and altitude.
A Kingdom in Exile: Chail's Royal Origins
Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala, a dynamic and powerful late 19th-century king, is where the narrative of Chail starts. Banished from entering Shimla—the then summer capital of British India—by Lord Kitchener due to a royal dispute, the Maharaja sought to build a new retreat of equal, if not greater, grandeur.
In 1891, he discovered his ultimate refuge in Chail, with dense deodar forests, a refreshing climate, and sweeping vistas of the Himalayan foothills. He pronounced it the new summer capital of Patiala, commissioning the construction of extravagant palaces, cottages, and even a military school.
Through the years, Chail silently etched its niche in Himachal Pradesh's history—not in political authority but in tranquil royalty. Its palaces were venues for grand hunting parties and royal visitors, a silent witness to a time when kings dwelt among clouds.
Where Stones Whisper Stories: The Architecture of Chail
Chail is a lovely example of hill architecture from colonial times, which merged with Indian royal tastes. Built in 1891, the Chail Palace is the main attraction.
Previously, it served as the Maharaja's summer residence. It now operates as a heritage hotel, enabling tourists to indulge in a royal lifestyle surrounded by oak and pine trees.
Key highlights of the Chail Palace include:
- Exquisite furnishings from the royal era and tall timber ceilings.
- Beautiful fireplaces and long verandas overlooking mist-covered valleys.
- Rolling lawns, gabled roofs, and exquisite woodwork that whisper refinement and not excess.
Another architectural jewel is the Gurudwara Sahib, constructed in Indo-Western architecture in 1907. Although small, its peaceful ambience and unique yellow frontage attract spiritual enthusiasts and heritage seekers in equal measure.
Unwrapping Chail: Key Attractions That Enchant
Chail may not overwhelm with grandeur, but its subtle charm is in its singular attractions:
Chail Cricket Ground
This area is home to the highest cricket ground in the world, standing at 2,444 meters above sea level. Constructed originally by the Maharaja in 1893 for the royal cricket team, it is set amidst tall deodars and has panoramic views of the Himalayan range.
Though there are matches infrequently these days, the grounds continue to be utilised by military cadets for sports and training activities.
Chail Palace
As mentioned earlier, this palace is now a heritage hotel, but visitors can explore its gardens, antique interiors, and dining hall. Even if you’re not staying, a visit to the palace is a step back into a quieter, royal time.
Kali Ka Tibba
This Goddess Kali temple, perched atop a hill, offers stunning views of the Shivalik hills and Choor Chandni. It is a wonderful place for photography and watching the sunset, with a serene environment that goes well with its religious significance.
Chail Wildlife Sanctuary
Stretching over 110 sq km, this sanctuary houses barking deer, Himalayan black bear, wild boar, and even leopards. Bird lovers can identify cheer pheasants and kalij, and nature trekking enthusiasts can delight in the numerous nature trails through the forest.
Sadhupul Lake and Bridge
Midway between Solan and Chail, this picturesque picnic area has waterside cafes and footbridges across a bubbling stream. It's an ideal spot to relax with your feet in the water and a Maggi bowl in hand.
Seasons of Tranquillity: Best Time to Visit Chail
The best time to visit Chail is from March to June. This season has a calm, pleasant climate with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, ideal for outdoor pursuits like trekking and sightseeing. Monsoons (July to September) introduce mist and fresh foliage, so the area is picturesque but sometimes slippery and foggy.
Chail is a winter wonderland from October to February. If snow is your weakness or you prefer serene mountain retreats, travelling there in December or January can be enchanting, although the temperatures go below freezing.
The hills and palaces are enchanted by the golden hours of dawn and sunset, perfect for taking pictures and engaging in reflective meditation.
Reaching Nature's Hideaway: How to Reach Chail
Chail can be approached in several ways, and the journey itself, via winding roads and forested hills, is an integral part of the experience.
By Air
The closest airport is Jubbarhatti Airport (SLV) in Shimla, approximately 60 km from Chail. However, because of the limited air connectivity, most travellers opt to land at Chandigarh International Airport, which is 114 km from Chail. Taxis and buses from there can transport you to the hill station.
By Train
Kalka is the nearest broad-gauge railway station, about 86 km away. To go to Kandaghat (25 km from Chail), one can take a taxi or the famous Kalka–Shimla toy train from Kalka, and then continue on the road.
By Road
Chail is easily accessible by road from Shimla (45 km), Solan (44 km), and Chandigarh (106 km). The Kandaghat-Chail road is picturesque and lined with pine forests and valley vistas. Buses, taxis, and shared cabs run regularly between these cities and Chail.
Tip: Walking is one of the best ways to see the small town since most of the points of interest are within a few kilometres.
Chail is not about checking off sights on a checklist. It's a destination where you can unwind, breathe in pine-fragrant air, and step into a landscape forged by royal rebellion and natural majesty. From viewing clouds moving across a lost palace or temple bells ringing through the hills, every experience in Chail is draped in peace and subtle beauty.
