The thing about famous hill stations is that they tend to get overcrowded when it's the best time of the year to visit them. When people are looking for an escape from their busy and jam-packed life-style, the last thing they want is an overcrowded place. For those of you who crave to be one with the nature with bare minimum outside interference, Chail is your calling. Set amidst the Shivalik Hills, Chail was the result of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala's desire to turn this place into his summer capital. Beautiful dense green forests, lush green fields spread over miles and miles of land are just one of the enticing features of this land. It is one of the blessed places of Himachal Pradesh that enjoys great weather almost all year long.
Chail is approximately 63 kilometres from Shimla, and offers an amazing view of Shimla as well as Kasauli. The vast expanse of Chail is divided into three major regions- Pandewa, Rajgarh and Sadh Tiba. If you're planning to visit Chail, pick your time of visit somewhere between the months of April to October, as Chail enjoys the best weather during these months.
Chail has many beautiful places to offer, the most prominent being the Chail Palace. It used to be the summer residence of Maharaja of Patiala. Spread over 75 acres, it is equipped with dense deodar cover, lawns, and tennis & badminton courts. Chail also holds the distinction of having the world's highest cricket ground, situated at a height of 2200 m from sea level. It is near Chail military school and comes under army cantonment area. Polo and football are also played there these days. To witness the amazing biodiversity of Chail, head towards the wildlife sanctuary located between Krishna and Giriganga River.
Many species such as langurs, leopards, brown bears, hogs, ghorals, sambars, wild pheasants and even the endangered Khaleej can also be seen here. 'Kali ka tibba' – situated atop a hill – offers amazing view of animal activity early at dawn. 'Kali ka Tibba' is also very popular among tourists due to exceptional views it offers.
You can also visit the Gurudwara Sahib, built in the year 1906. It is located on a much more secluded location and offers peace and tranquillity for both mind and soul. In the evening you can go to the serene Sadhupul Lake that can be easily reached by road. It is the best spot to spend your evening in the slow cool breeze. You will also find a restaurant there, which serves many snacks to keep your appetite at bay.
As this place is not frequented by a lot many visitors, eating out option is limited to a few dhabas that serve Indian dishes. Most of the hotels have in-house kitchens. Provided the nature of options you have there, the best pick would be to opt for PRIM Resorts. Best in class service, dedicated staff, clean rooms, finger licking food, you name it and they have that. PRIM Resorts will take care of all your needs.
Martin Wynn
