Chail : 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.
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.
Climate Conditions
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
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.
For more information you can Contact us at - 09717096542.