Chail
Chail is a little
mountainous heaven 45 kms. from Shimla. It was the summer capital
of the Maharaja of Patiala before Independence. The forests near
Chail have many species of birds and deer. Chail is known for its
cricket pitch, which is the highest cricket ground in the world.
This idyllic resort, set amidst scented forests of pine and deodar,
was once the summer resort of the maharajas of Patiala. Located
on a wooded spur, Chail (2,150 m) overlooks the Sutlej Valley. Shimla
and Kasauli are also visible and at night their twinkling lights
seem part of the starlit sky.
The palace of the maharajas, built in the late 19th century and
the pretty cottages of the complex - that once accommodated the
ADCs and guests of the royal party - are now part of a charming
holiday resort.
Chail has lobely walks and trails that meander through the dense
pine forests - the home of barking deer, wild boar, pheasant and
a variety of birds. Forest rest houses make overnight halts possible.
For those interested in sports, Chail has fine tennis and squash
courts and a putting green. There are excellent spots along the
River Gaura with opportunities for anglers to tangle with the Himalayan
mahaseer. Chail has also the highest cricket ground in the world
- 2,250 m above sea level.
Excursion
Chail Sanctuary
Chail is a beautiful hill station and a popular resort. The deodar
and oak forests and grasslands around the town are part of the sanctuary.
One can see sambhar, ghoral and cheer phesants at Blossom and Jhaja
- where there are pheasant breeding centres. Barking deer and khalij
pheasant are often spotted at dusk and dawn in the sanctuary. Treks
from Chail to Gaura and Chail to Jhaja are popular.
Getting There
By Air
Nearest airports are Shimla and Chandigarh.
By Rail
Nearest railhead is Kalka (86 Km).
By Road
Accessible by road from Kalka via Kandaghat which is 32 Km short
of Shimla, on the Kalka - Shimla Highway. Kandaghat - Chail is 29
Km.
General Information
Altitude : 2,150 m above sea level
Temperature : Bracing throughout
the year.
Best Season : April-June / October-November.
Clothing : (Summer / Winter) Light
Woollens / Heavy Woollens
Top
General Information & Accomdation info on Chail city of Himachal Pradesh - India
|