|
Sorroundings
Proclaimed by ancient Indian texts as Devbhumi - "Land of the Gods" - and believed to be the earthly home of the mighty Lord Shiva, this beautiful, far-flung region has an almost palpable presence of divinity. Bordered by Tibet on the east, Jammu and Kashmir to the north, and Punjab to the west, the landlocked state is one of great topographical diversity, from vast bleak tracts of rust-colored high-altitude Trans-Himalayan desert to dense green deodar forests, apple orchards, cultivated terraces and sublime snow capped mountains. Truly a travelers paradise with mighty snow peaks, deep gorges, lush green and golden valleys, flower filled meadows, misty woods, fast flowing icy rivers, glaciers and enchanting lakes. For the visitor there are superb locations for relaxing and sight seeing. There are also tremendous opportunities for trekking, mountaineering, para-gliding etc. With an excellent network of roads and communication facilities, Himachal has a clean and peaceful environment.
At the height of 2, 159m, (Chail is just 45 kms from the state. capital, Shimla. Another picturesque, thickly forested tract of land, Chail owes its allegiance to the Maharaja of Patiala who wanted to build his palace on a hill from where he could look down upon Shimla. Chail became the, summer capital of the princely state of Patiala and is perhaps the only hill station to have been built by a princely state.
It is a place where even time takes a pause to breathe pine scented fresh mountain air. Quiet and serene pathway where you can hear the occasional horn bill, lush green forests, silent valleys, enchanting glades, brilliant crimson flaming sunsets, floating clouds, misty hills are what make Chail the ideal destination for your holidays.
Chail with its carpet of lush green meadows, is also famous for the world's highest cricket ground. And, while from one side of Chail you can see the twinkling lights of Shimla, Solan from the other side you get a view of the highest peak in this region of the Himalayas, Choor Chandni, which literally means 'the mountain of the silver bangle'.
The imperial legacy is at its most vivid here and legends of a colorful past walk the streets. Scenic hill stations with their Himalayan magic, beckon to tourists and holiday makers, walking trails thread through dense woods of Oak, Pine and steep hill sides yield to picturesque terraced fields. Pretty cottages nestle in tranquil sylvan surroundings. 'There is the presence of the hill people, gentle and cheerful everywhere.
In Chail Sancturay Barking deer and Kalijin in the forests are sure to meet and greet the visitors at dusk and dawn. The Deodar and Oak forests with grasslands around the township are, the abode of wildlife. One can see Sam bar, Goral and Cheer Pheasants at Blossom and Jhaja. Trekking from Chail to Gaura and Jhaja is common and rewarding as one is sure. to see wildlife and beautiful snowy peaks.
|