The history of Chail, a small hamlet in Himachal Pradesh dates back to the late 19th century. It was during this time, when Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala was banished from Shimla for eloping with Lord Kitchener’s daughter. In retaliation, he decided to build himself a personal summer capital close to Shimla and settled for Chail.
The Maharaja built a magnificent palace here, popularly known as the Chail Palace. It is now open to all and has been converted into a resort, where every visitor is given a royal treatment. The palace and the nearby places are surrounded by tall rising deodar tress. There are log huts, cottages, tennis courts, and many quite walks that add charm to entire living experience.
Chail is conveniently connected with Shimla and Chandigarh via road. At a height of 2,250 meters, it lies 45 km away from Shimla. Regular bus service is available. You can board buses for Shimla, Delhi and Chandigarh from here.
The region also boosts of having the world’s highest cricket filed, which the Maharaja got built during his reign in 1893. At a distance of 3km from the Chail Palace, it stands at a height of 2,444 meters, and one can savor playing cricket or enjoy a game of Polo amidst the majestic surroundings, something towns like Shimla do not offer.
As for food, the palace itself features an HPTDC restaurant within its premises and King’s Bar. Besides the regular menu of meals and snacks, you can enjoy a wide variety of local cuisines here. If you want to explore more, a little further from the palace, there is small market, where dhabas and small restaurants are aplenty. You can treat yourself there too.
The climate here is similar to that of the surroundings regions like Kufri. Summers are mild and one may have to carry light woolens for evenings. Winters are definitely harsh, with temperatures going below the freezing point. And, yet one can visit the Chail throughout the year.