Introduction

When the Maharaja of Patiala was expelled from Shimla, the ‘summer capital’ of British India, he began scouring the hills for a capital of his own. When he selected Chail as his own ‘summer capital’, the site he picked for his palace was the one where the Sidh Baba ka Mandir (the ‘True Sage’s Temple’), now stands. But an ill omen seemed to hang over the construction area. According to local legend, the moment anything was built, it would collapse overnight. The story goes that when the Maharaja was told of this, he spent the night at the site and even then, whatever had been built through the day, fell down. Work continued but dozens of snakes would appear from nowhere and attack the labourers. Then the Maharaja had a dream. A sidh, sage appeared before him and declared that the site the Maharaja had chosen was where he had meditated till he was taken by the earth - and that his peace should not be disturbed. The Maharaja also had the sage's blessings to build on any other spot. The Maharaja moved the position of his palace to another site and at the original place (which is approximately a kilometre from the Palace Hotel), he had a temple to the sidh built. Here, the stone embodiment, pindi of the sage may still be seen - along with the iron tongs and trident also said to have been excavated. The shrine is known as the ' Sidh Baba Ka Mandir ' and is revered by many that claim that the sage has the power to grant boons and the local people claim that no one has returned empty-handed from the temple. A major event every year is on the second Sunday of June, when a three day fair is organized around the temple.

Special Attributes

Temple held in considerable veneration

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Conservative

Connectivity

Taxis and buses

Enjoyed by

History, religion and general interest.

Exposure

None indoors

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Restaurants close by

Things Not Allowed

No shoes in the temple.

Tip

Ask for a boon!

Type of site

Temple