Sterling Shivalik Chail: A Quiet Romantic Escape in the Hills

Sterling Shivalik Chail: A Quiet Romantic Escape in the Hills

Sometimes the best trips begin without much planning.

That’s exactly how this short escape to Chail happened. One spontaneous decision, a quick packing of bags, and a drive out of Chandigarh along NH5 — trading busy roads for the calm of the hills.

As the road curved past Kandaghat and climbed toward Chail, the landscape slowly changed. Tall cedar and pine trees lined the route, and the air grew cooler. The drive itself felt quieter and slower, setting the tone even before we reached our destination.

Chail has a very different character compared to other hill stations nearby. It doesn’t have crowded markets or busy promenades. Instead, it offers stillness — forested paths, open views, and a pace that feels unhurried. Landmarks like the historic Chail Palace, the world’s highest cricket ground, and the peaceful Kali Tibba temple add character without overwhelming the landscape.

That quiet simplicity is exactly what makes Chail appealing.

A Stay Above the Valley

We checked in at Sterling Shivalik Chail, located along the Kandaghat–Chail–Kufri road. Set above the Shivalik Valley, Sterling Chail offers a comfortable base for travellers looking to explore the area while enjoying a relaxed hillside stay.

The welcome was warm and straightforward, and soon we found ourselves settling into our room — which quickly became a quiet retreat of its own.

The balcony turned into our favourite spot. From there, the valley stretched out in soft layers of hills, fading gradually into the distance. It wasn’t a dramatic Himalayan panorama, but it had a calm, understated beauty.

Mornings began slowly. Sunlight filtered through the curtains, and we would step outside with cups of tea while the valley below remained wrapped in mist. The cool mountain air carried the scent of pine and damp earth — small details that made the moment feel complete.

Exploring Chail at Our Own Pace

Some afternoons were spent exploring nearby spots. We walked through the grounds of Chail Palace, admired the setting of the cricket ground tucked among tall pines, and made the gentle climb to Kali Tibba Temple, where the quiet surroundings offer expansive views of the hills.

One evening we drove toward Sadhupul, following the sound of water through the valley. Sitting beside the stream, with our feet briefly touching the cold current, was a refreshing break from routine.

But just as often, we chose to stay back at the resort — sitting by the balcony, talking, or simply watching the changing light over the hills.

Travel doesn’t always have to be about discovering new places. Sometimes it’s about creating the space to reconnect.

Dining at Tibba Restaurant

Evenings naturally led us to Tibba Restaurant, the resort’s in-house dining space. We often chose a table by the window, where the valley slowly shifted colours as the sun went down.

The menu offers a mix of regional Himachali flavours and familiar comfort dishes. We tried siddu, a traditional steamed bread served with ghee, along with a bowl of madra, a yoghurt-based chickpea curry. A simple pahadi rajma dish stood out for its comforting flavour.

Dessert one evening was classic gulab jamun with vanilla ice cream — a simple pairing that felt perfect after a leisurely dinner.

The atmosphere was relaxed, and meals often stretched longer than expected, turning into easy conversations rather than rushed dining.

Service That Feels Natural

One aspect that quietly stood out was the thoughtful service. Small details — remembering our tea preferences or suggesting the best time to visit Kali Tibba — made the experience feel personal without being intrusive.

It wasn’t elaborate hospitality. It was simply attentive.

A Few Days That Felt Longer

By the time we started the drive back toward Kandaghat, the hills slowly receding behind us, the trip felt surprisingly restorative.

Staying at Sterling Shivalik Chail allowed us to experience that calm while still enjoying comfort and thoughtful amenities.

For couples looking for a peaceful hill escape near Chandigarh or Shimla, Sterling Chail offers exactly what many travellers are searching for — space, silence, and time to slow down together.