Chail
A palace town where the Maharaja of Patiala once summered, with what is said to be the world's highest cricket ground and quiet pine forests.
Chail lies about 45 km south of Shimla at roughly 2,250 metres. Legend has it that the Maharaja of Patiala, after offending the British viceroy, was expelled from Shimla and built a summer capital on a neighbouring hill. Chail Palace, completed in 1891, is now a heritage hotel run by the state tourism corporation. Visitors can stay overnight, take tea in the gardens or tour the building. The town's Chail cricket ground, at about 2,444 metres, is said to be the highest cricket ground in the world, and it now belongs to a military school. The surrounding Chail Wildlife Sanctuary has cedar forest trails. Chail is much quieter than Shimla, making it suitable for a day trip or an overnight stay.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Tara Devi Temple
- Sankat Mochan Temple
- Jakhoo Temple
- Christ Church
- The Mall & The Ridge
- Scandal Point & Gaiety Theatre
- Lakkar Bazaar & Ice Skating Rink
- Kalka–Shimla Railway