In India there are a number of hill stations that are known as “Hiker’s paradise” and, one perfect example is Chail a hill station in Himachal Pradesh. This hill station is located at a distance of about 44 km from Shimla and 45 km from Solan. This picturesque hill station overlooks the beautiful valley of Sutlej. It is elevated at an altitude of 2,250 meters. Lush green valleys and a unique landscape and terrain are the reasons why this hill station is a tourist hotspot. The presence of deodar and pine trees only adds to the charm of the hill station. Historically speaking this hill station was once the summer capital of the King of Patiala Bhupinder Singh who was expelled from Shimla during the British Raj. So if natural beauty and a perfect terrain for hiking are what you are looking for then “Chail” is certainly an option that you should explore.
Read More: 5 UNKNOWN HILL STATIONS IN HIMACHAL PRADESH
How to reach Chail ?
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Chail Map
By train:
The nearest railway station is the Kalka railway station in Haryana. Chandigarh railway station is also close to Chail but unlike Kalka is well connected to all major cities in Indian.
By road:
Regular bus services are provided from cities in and around Chail. There are also regular private bus services from Shimla to Chail.
By flight:
The nearest domestic airport is the JubbarHati Airport in Shimla. This airport is well connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai etc. The closest international airport is the New Delhi Airport.
Climate and the best time to visit Chail Hills
Chail is elevated at an altitude of 2,250 meters and hence the climate is pleasant throughout the year with, the temperature during summer ranging from a maximum of 24 degrees Celsius to a minimum of 15 degrees Celsius. While winters are extremely cold with temperatures ranging from 2 degrees Celsius to sub zero and snowfall is a common occurrence. Monsoon season in Chail begins towards the end of June and ends in September. This season is also considered the best season for trekkers. The best time to visit Chail is from April to September so as to avoid the harsh winters and the inconvenience caused by the monsoon.
Places To Visit Around Chail Hills
Chail Palace: This palace turned grand hotel rests amid forests of pine and deodar. It was originally built in 1891 by the King of Patiala. Spread over nearly 75 acres of land, the palace offers a ravishing view of the surrounding. Great antique furniture all across the palace has been used to retain the glorious past.
Chail Wildlife Sanctuary: Spread over approximately 110 square kilometers, this wildlife sanctuary is beautifully covered with oaks, shrubs, pines, and grasslands. A wide range of animals can be found here that includes common langur, Himalayan black bear, the European red deer, the Indian muntjac, goral, leopard, wild boar, sambar, crested porcupine, etc. Besides, the place also shelters a wide range of birds like the kalij pheasant and the cheer pheasant.
Siddh Baba KaMandir: Located on the hill lying between Rajgarh and Pandhawa, it is a beautiful temple that enjoys an exotic surrounding. It is also perfect for a picnic spot.
Gurudwara Sahib: Perched on the Pandhawa Hills, it was constructed in 1907. It has an architectural style which resembles some of the Goa churches. It is yellow in color that looks very bright amid lush greenery. The mesmerizing views of the surrounding are a major attraction.
Kali KaTibba: It is a very sacred place for the Hindus and is visited by numerous devotees. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali. Being located atop the hill, it provides a magnificent view. The breathtaking sight of the ChoorChandni peak and the Shivalik Range deserves special mention.
Other places of interest nearby: Jubbal, Rohru, Nahan, Paonta Sahib, Sarahan, Shoja, Sangla, Mandi, Una, Kalpa, Bhuntar, and Nadaun are some other places of tourist interest which can be planned for a weekend getaway in Chail.
Also Read: WHAT MAKES KUFRI SUCH A MESMERIZING INDIAN HILL STATION?