Do you know the highest cricket ground in the world is in Chail in Himachal Pradesh? It is a must-visit for cricketers, cricket lovers, and nature lovers. Located at an altitude of 18,080 ft., Chail was founded by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, a cricket lover, who made this place his summer capital. The place is blessed with nature's marvels and is a truly awe-inspiring destination. Encompassed by lush greenery, this place provides fascinating views of soaring high mountain ranges from an extraordinary height. It is also known as the explorer's heaven. Chail, Himachal Pradesh, will undoubtedly give a visitor an unforgettable travelling experience. This place is popular for having the world's most notable cricket and polo grounds and has a rich resort located on three peaks. A trip to Chail is sure to give you an incredible travel experience and memories to be cherished forever. Take a look!
Best Time To Visit Chail
You can visit Chail at any time of the year. However, if you are specifically looking for the best time frame to visit Chail, then the months of April to June would suit you best to visit this place and have fun. During this time, the weather is pleasant, perfect for exploring Chail and nearby areas. Bask in the warmth of sunlight in the day and enjoy mild cold nights around a bonfire.
Culture of Chail
Chail is an incredible destination known for its rolling topography, soaring mountain ranges, verdant meadows, and deep valleys. The natural splendour of this place has been lovingly retained by semi-nomadic tribes of the region, Gujjars, Kinnars, Gaddis, Pangwals, Lahaulis, etc. For the past many centuries, this area was ruled and dominated by Rajputs, Brahmins, Kannets, Rathis, etc. Thus, Chail reflects a mixed culture and maintains a perfect equilibrium between traditional and modern lifestyles. Undoubtedly, visitors get intrigued by the potpourri of multiple races and tribes living peacefully and happily in this multi-cultural, multi-lingual, and multi-cultural society. The tourism industry is the mainstay of the Chail economy. People here are very friendly and peaceful by nature. They love music and dancing. Many events and festivals are celebrated in this area that celebrates the gallantry and bravery of warriors who laid their lives to protect their homeland.
Events And Festivals In & Around Chail
1. Bhoj Fair
This amazing fair lasts for three days. It is celebrated in November in honour of Lord Bangor.
2. Lavi Fair
The Lavi Fair is celebrated in memory of the mutual treaty signed between Tibet and Bushahr state. You get to watch several cultural shows performed at a small-scale business amongst the shepherds during this festival.
The Shimla Summer Festival is held in May every year. However, what is exciting is that during this festival you will get to know about the local music, dance concerts, cultural performances, and photography competition.
4. Baisakhi
It is a popular festival celebrated on the first day of Hindu month, Baisakh. It celebrates the onset of the harvest season and marks the end of winter. This festival is also famous as 'Bisha'or 'Bissu.'
5. Sipi Fair
It is a fair celebrated in honour of Sip devta, a deity revered in this region. It is celebrated in May or June in Sihpur. During this festival, many jugglers, magic shows, acrobats, archery competitions show their skills. Many cultural shows are also organized that reflect the unique culture of this place.
Best Tourist Places To Visit in Chail
Chail is a quaint hill station nestled amidst the Shivalik region of Himachal Pradesh. It enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year, thus perfect for visitors who wish to explore this destination. The beauty of this place cannot be described in words. Overlooking the valley of Sutlej, Chail commands mesmerizing views of valleys, meadows, mountain ranges, and tall trees, adding beauty and character to this divine destination. Check out amazing tourist attractions in and around Chail that you must add to your bucket list when visiting this destination.
1. Chail Wildlife Sanctuary
This place has a somewhat dark past as this is the place that once used to be the hunter's reserve for the royals of this place. However, in 1976, this place was declared as the wildlife sanctuary for this place. What is interesting about this place is that you will find a plethora of bird species here.
2. Palace Hotel
When the Maharaja of Patiala, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, was banished from Shimla over a dalliance with the British Commander-in-Chief's daughter, this place of Chail came into existence. So, he went ahead and then also created his summer capital.
3. Kali Temple
The Kali Temple is situated in Chail and is one of the best options to explore the immensely beautiful sceneries by which this place is surrounded. So, if you want to experience some breathtaking views, you should consider visiting this place.
Things To Do In Chail
Besides admiring the glorious natural beauty of Chail, visitors can also engage in a variety of activities. They will surely feel an adrenaline rush and will be excited to participate in these activities. It will add spice to their holiday experience.
1. Visit The Cricket Ground
It is known that Maharaja Bhupender Singh was a hardcore cricket enthusiast. Thus, he built a cricket ground for himself on the top of the hill. And it is from then on, Chail is the proud home to the highest cricket ground all across the globe.
2. Go Horse Riding
What is great about this place is that to travel on the terrain of Kufri, you cannot go without a horse. However, this is quite a fun activity to do and is also completely safe. People can be seen riding horses for travelling and seem joyful.
3. A Visit to Sidh Baba Ka Mandir
Did you know that the Maharaja Bhupinder Singh also built this temple? A saint visited him in his dream and told him that that place was perfect to build his dream palace.
How To Reach Chail?
Chail is a popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh. It is well connected with different parts of the country through diverse modes of transportation.
- Nearest Airport from Chail- Jubbarhatti Airport, Shimla 72 km
- Nearest City- Shimla
- Distance from Shimla- 45 km via Kufri
- Distance from Shimla- 61 Km via Kandaghat
By Air. Jabarhatti Airport in Shimla is the nearest airport to reach Chail. It is located approximately 72 km away. Another airport that can be used to reach Chail is Chandigarh Airport which is 113 km from Chail. Regular domestic and international flights are available, bringing in visitors from different parts of the country and even abroad. After landing in Chandigarh or Shimla, visitors can hire a private cab or taxi to reach Chail. Many state-owned and private buses are also available.
- · Distance from Shimla Airport-72 KM
- · Distance from Chandigarh Airport- 113 KM
By Train. Chail is well-connected with different parts of the country through rail routes. The nearest railway station to reach Chail is Kalka Railway Station. Located at National Highway 22, it is 81 km away from Chail. Several trains operating on important routes like Kalka Shatabdi, Kalka Mail, Himalayan Queen, and Paschim express connect different parts of the country with Kalka. A trip by train gives incredible views of the scenic splendours all around, making the journey memorable.
· Distance from Kalka Railway Station- 81 KM
By Road. Chail enjoys decent connectivity with many cities of North India via metalled roads. Visitors can reach Chail from Shimla via Kufri, travelling a distance of 45 km. They can also take up another route from Shimla via Kandaghat, which is 61 KM away. Bus services are easily available from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla. Both state and privately owned buses are available on these routes. Visitors can also travel by their car and enjoy beautiful and picturesque locales on the way.
- · Distance from Chandigarh- 105.4 KM
- · Distance from Delhi- 336.4 KM
- · Distance from Shimla- 45.4 KM
FAQs Related to Chail
Q 1. What is Chail Known for?
A 1. Chail is known for its natural beauty, verdant forests, and awe-inspiring beauty. The place is also known for historical buildings known for architectural splendour.
Q 2. Who built Chail Palace?
A 2. Chail Palace was constructed in 1891 by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala. This palace was his residence.
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip's technically driven circuit planner.