Chail; Tiny Town With World's Highest Cricket Ground!

Snow clad monstrous Himalayan ranges, dense virgin forests witnessing shy sunrises and soundless sunsets. Barely few souls wandering aimlessly along the lines of pine tress. You are in Chail; an unassuming tiny hamlet resting in the lap of Himalayas, 44 kilometers from the famous town of Shimla.

Chail, also known as mini Shimla carries an enigmatic history. In 1891, the British Lord Kitchener was furious by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala whose apparent headstrong, drunkard, womanizing habits did not go quite well with the British Lord. He forbade Maharaja to enter the then summer capital of British India-Shimla. Incensed by this insult, the Maharaja pledged that he will build a new and a better summer capital for himself. Hence, the pocket sized town of Chail was born.

Calling the best artisans, Maharaja started to build a palace for himself amidst the lush green forests. However, as per the anecdote, he noticed something hampering the progress. It is said that the site he chose for his Palace was an abode to spirit of a powerful sage who did not like his idea. To make peace, he built a temple for the sage known as 'Sidh Baba Temple' and planned to change the venue for his Palace. And thus, Chail got The famous 'Chail Palace.'

Known for its architecture, Chail Palace, the summer retreat of Maharaja of Patiala today is a luxury destination resort. Surrounded by emerald green landscapes and dense forests, this is one of the most visited hotels of Himachal Pradesh. The Chail Palace Cafe serves sumptuous local and international delicacies. A romantic candlelight dinner with delicacies such as chicken anardana, mutton curry or the Himachali 'Sepu Badi' amidst lush green mountains is surely one of the most entrancing things you can do here.

Another creation of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, who discovered a hilltop and was mesmerized with the surroundings is the cricket ground of Chail which is the World's highest one! An avid cricket lover, this ground at 7,380 feet above sea level, this is a sight to watch. Take a walk or enjoy playing the sport; it would give you a different high. A splendid view of Shimla and Kasauli at night from here is equally breathtaking.

Kali ka Tibba is my favorite place in Chail. Situated on a tiny hillock, the view of the sunset will simply blow your mind away! From the top you also get a view of Shivalik Ranges that too is bound to stir your heart every time you are here.

Chail is also popular amongst wildlife enthusiasts. Sprawling over an area of 110 Sq Kms, Chail Wildlife Sanctuary is home to many rich varieties of wildlife. Wild boar, Goral, Sambar, Spotted deer, Himalayan black bear, Indian porcupine, Flying squirrel are some of the animal species you can meet here. Densely covered by Oaks and Pines, the sanctuary also sees variety of birds like Chir Pheasant, Grey Headed Flycatcher, Golden Eagle, and the famous Khalij Pheasant.

For the ones looking for a weekend getaway from Chandigarh or people visiting Shimla otherwise, Chail is a must visit!