Chail Cricket Ground Near Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Cricket Ground, Chail Overview

Maharaja Bhupinder Singh made Chail his summer capital, and as he was a cricket enthusiast, he built a cricket ground here, on the top of a hill. This made Chail, the proud home to the highest cricket ground in the world. The cricket pitch was developed after levelling a large hilltop. Situated at an altitude of 2,444 meters above sea level, the cricket ground is also used as a polo ground. This field is now maintained by the Army since it is located in the Cantonment area. Civilians are not allowed to enter the ground, though one can look and walk around the area.

Located in the picturesque Himachal Pradesh, the Chail Cricket Ground was established in 1893 but was properly developed by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, Maharaja of Patiala. The location of the ground is immensely beautiful as it is surrounded by lush green forests. It is currently used as the school playground of Chail Military School. During the school vacations, it is often used as the polo ground. The ground is well equipped for sports other than cricket as well. It is the world's highest cricket ground and even has a well maintained Basketball Court along with goal posts for football.

The cricket ground is nestled among the enormous deodar vegetation and is one of the most famous cricket stadiums in India. It lies at an approximate height of 7,500 feet above sea level in the laps of the beautiful hill station of Chail. The ground also has an ancient tree house at one of its corner, which was supposedly built by the Maharaja himself. Travellers visiting the Chail Cricket Ground can get a peek at some nearby attractions as well. These attractions include Sutlej Valley, Shimla, and Kasauli. The Chail Palace is also very popular among the masses due to its marvelous architecture. Chail is also known as the hiker's paradise.

History of the Chail Palace and Cricket Ground

Away from the bustling, almost city-like life of Shimla, Chail is located at around 44 km away from the state capital. This ground was made by the Maharaja of Patiala, because of his passion for the sport of cricket. The Chail Palace was the summer home of the Maharaja of Patiala. He was allotted this land during and by the British Raj for assistance in the Anglo Nepalese War.

It is interesting to note that in 1891, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala incurred the rage of Lord Kitchener which led to the restriction of his entry in the Indian summer capital, Shimla. This incensed the Maharaja, and he swore to build a new summer site for himself. So, he rebuilt Chail as per his royal needs. Later, he discovered a hilltop and made a cricket ground on it after levelling it. It is covered by enormous deodar and pine trees.

During the yesteryears, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh used to play cricket with the British here, but now it is under the control of Indian Army. One can spot the vast Himalayan ranges in the vicinity, snow-clad glittering in the sun. After acquisition by the Indian Union, the Maharaja donated most of his procession to the Government of India and Chail Military School.

Best Time To Visit Cricket Ground

The weather conditions in Chail are favourable throughout the year. While the summer months are pleasant and refreshing, the winter months are somewhat chilly and calm. Chail receives infrequent rainfall during the monsoon months. Hence, this attraction can be visited anytime throughout the year. Although, the peak tourist season here is from April to July and from September to November.

How To Reach Cricket Ground

Chail is well connected through the main city via all means of transport. Bus services are also quite prominent. The nearest airport is that of Shimla. Kalka-Shimla railways is also a feasible option to reach Chail.