Located at a height of 2,250 meters from the sea level, Chail is one of the most exotic tourist places in the state of Himachal Pradesh in North India. While facing an exile from Shimla, the Maharaja of Patiala, Bhupinder Singh created it as his own summer capital. A picturesque hill station, Chail is surrounded by thick cover of soaring deodars and chir pines. Hill of Chail is also higher in elevation compared to Shimla. Due to excellent climatic conditions, the town is a favoured abode for honeymooning couples and nature lovers. At the same time, people looking for adventurous activities like trekking, mountaineering and various species of flora and fauna find the place suitable for their liking.
Chail is built on three hills with the palace located on the Rajgarh Hill. Residency Snow View is located on the Pandhewa Hill and the town is located on the third hill named Sadh Tiba overlooking Satluj Valley, Kasauli, and Shimla that are also visible during the night from Chail. Highest cricket ground of the world is also located here. Himalayan ranges with snow covered peaks gleaming in the sun, is on the other side of the town. More tourist information is available in the Himachal Pradesh tourist guide.
While foods of all types are available in the restaurants attached to the hotels, one of the highly recommended places to eat is the Chail Palace Restaurant where visitors can find quality food and beverages at reasonable prices. For local food, one can consider full grain bread made of maize flour and mustard leaf. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian foods are available in Chail food joints.
Shoppers can buy fruit jams and jellies made from handpicked fresh fruits and forest products. Not many shopping outlets are there but woollen garments, pickles, artefacts, from the local market. Some of things visitors may like to buy include Kinnauir mufflers, Himachal caps, socks, sweaters, gloves, pashmina shawls, and handmade shoes. Rugs and carpets for decor are also available. Among jewellery items are stone studded and metal products. Apple and plum wines and kiwi squash are some of the favourites of tourists.
For sightseeing in Chail visitors may approach some of the places nearby like:
- Kufri: About 34 km. from Chail, Kufri is famous for trekking and hiking trails in addition to nature parks, picnic spots, and winter sports. Annual winter sports including skiing is held in Kufri every February which adventure seekers will enjoy greatly. Added attraction is Indira Tourist Park in Kurfri and Pony and Yak Ride.
- Mashobra: About 42 km. from Chail, this is a beautiful retreat with many walks and trekking grounds. Kandaghat is well known for wide expense of lush green forests and is located on Shimla-Kalka Highway NH22.
- Shimla: Located around 48 km. from Chail, Shimla, known as the Queen of Hill stations is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. Viceregal Lodge, Mall road, Gaiety Heritage Cultural Museum, Shimla Water Catchment Sanctuary, Chadwick falls are some of the best attractions here.