When Bhupinder Singh, Maharaja of Patiala,was expelled from Shimla - the `summer capital' of the British in India - he decided to create his own capital for the hot months. The little village of Chail was perfect. It lay surrounded by magnificent deodar forests, Shimla was in direct vision and most important, the hill of Chail at 2226 m was somewhat higher than British-controlled Shimla. Today the Maharaja's creation can be experienced by everyone. Whether you are on a honeymoon  or in  search of seclusion or wish to organise a conference and demand all facilities, Chail has it all .Then, there is good sight seeing and the possibility of some fishing and trekking. Chail also has the world's highest cricket pitch and polo ground.

Places to Visit

Sidh Baba ka Mandir(1.5 km)
Maharaja Bhupinder Singh originally began building his palace at this site. It is said that a `sidh' -saintly person appeared before the Maharaja in a dream and declared that this was the place where he had meditated. Bhupinder Singh shifted his palace and also had this temple built.

Cricket Ground (3 km)
Built in 1893, after levelling the top of a hill, this stands at 2444m and is the highest cricket pitch and polo ground in the world.

Wildlife Sanctuary (3 km)
The Chail sanctuary has `ghoral', `kakkar', `sambhar',' red jungle fowl ' and 'khalij' and `cheer' pheasants. Machan-like sighting posts have been built near Blossom and at Khariun.

Excursions

Kufri
An enjoyable drive through forests and small villages leads to this small but popular station. The Nature Park here is a great attraction. A short trek leads upto the Mahasu peak-with breathtaking view.

Sadhupul
Halfway between Kandaghat and Chail is this village and bridge astride the Ashwani stream. A good picnic spot.

Other Attractions

Adventure and fishing
A dozen or so trek routes lead out of Chail. Trails Iead upto the Choor Peak and to Shimla. Skiing can be done at Narkanda during winters. There is fishing on the Giri river at Gaura , 29km  away.

Access

By Air
The closest airports are at Chandigarh ( 120 km) and Shimla(63 km).

By Road
Chail is connected by road. From Shimla via Kufri the distance is 45 km and via Kandaghat this is 61 km. Kalka is 86 km away. Regular buses for Chail leave from Shimla, Chandigarh and Delhi.

In winter, the temperature can drop below freezing point when heavy woollens are required. In summer the climate is mild and light woollens/cottons are recommended.

Best time to visit - (May-July and September-November)

Chail and its surrounding areas is a delight for tourists in every season. It is charming in summer, fascinating in autumn when the fields and the forests are covered with a cloak of russet and gold and, of course, in winter it is nothing less than paradise. Everything about this place is as perfect as perfection can possibly be. The air here is crisp, invigorating and there is some kind of warmth in the snow.

Accommodation

Tarika Jungle Retreat, Chail

Hotel Monaal,Chail

Rashi Resorts, Chail

Hotel Lions, Mihani, Chail

Ekant Hotel, Chail

Chail Inn, Chail

Hotel Grand Sunset, Chail