Sui Mata Temple

The Sui Mata Temple is a sacred pilgrimage site located in the Saho village of Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh. The temple was built by King Sahil Varman in memory of his wife, Queen Sui, who sacrificed her life to bring water to the region during a severe drought.

The temple is situated atop the Shah Darbar Hill, offering a spectacular view of the surrounding area. The temple complex is divided into three parts: the main temple, a channel, and a memorial dedicated to Queen Sui. The interiors of the temple are adorned with beautiful paintings depicting the life and sacrifice of Queen Sui. Every year, a fair is organized from March 15th to April 1st, during which married women and girls visit the temple to pay their respects and offer prayers.

The story behind the temple is a testament to the queen's selflessness and devotion to her people. According to legend, when the region faced a severe water shortage, King Sahil Varman was advised by Brahmins to sacrifice either his son or his wife to appease the gods and bring water to the area.

The king decided to sacrifice his son, but Queen Sui, unable to bear the thought of her son's sacrifice, took her own life instead. Following her sacrifice, water began to flow in the region, ending the drought. The Sui Mata Temple is a place of great cultural and historical significance, attracting visitors who come to pay homage to Queen Sui and learn about the traditions and heritage of Chamba.