Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba
Also known as Sui Mata Temple, सुई माता मंदिर, Rani Sunayna Temple
Sui Mata Mandir above Chamba town honors deified Rani Sunayna, whose legendary self-sacrifice brought water to the city, marked by the Sui Mata Mela.
Photos of Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba
- Established
- 10th-11th century CE (per the legend of Rani Sunayna)
- Architecture
- Small hillside stone shrine overlooking Chamba town, simple Pahari construction
- Address
- Chowgan Mohalla, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh 176318
- Timings
- Open daily, 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM; main gathering during the Sui Mata Mela
History of Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba
According to local legend, Chamba town suffered a severe water shortage after its founding, and a spring only began to flow after Rani Sunayna offered herself in sacrifice at the site, in keeping with a dream vision. The town has commemorated her devotion ever since with the annual Sui Mata Mela, held over four days each spring, during which women and girls carry decorated sticks (representing the queen and her daughter) in a procession through Chamba to the shrine.
Festivals Celebrated at Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba
- Sui Mata Mela (March-April)
How to Reach Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba
Nearest airport: Kangra (Gaggal) Airport (~110 km). Nearest railhead: Pathankot (~56 km). By road: a short climb above the Chowgan ground in central Chamba town.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba
Where is Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba located?
- Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba is located at Chowgan Mohalla, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh 176318, in Chamba, Himachal Pradesh, India.
What are the timings of Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba?
- Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba is generally open Open daily, 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM; main gathering during the Sui Mata Mela. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba built?
- Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba was established 10th-11th century CE (per the legend of Rani Sunayna). Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba?
- Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba is built in the Small hillside stone shrine overlooking Chamba town, simple Pahari construction style.
Which festivals are celebrated at Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba include Sui Mata Mela (March-April). These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Himachal Pradesh and beyond.
How can I reach Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba?
- Nearest airport: Kangra (Gaggal) Airport (~110 km). Nearest railhead: Pathankot (~56 km). By road: a short climb above the Chowgan ground in central Chamba town.
Why is Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba significant?
- Sui Mata Mandir above Chamba town honors deified Rani Sunayna, whose legendary self-sacrifice brought water to the city, marked by the Sui Mata Mela.
Is there an entry fee at Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba?
- Entry to the main shrine of Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba?
- Sui Mata Mandir, Chamba follows the traditional dress code observed at Himachal Pradesh temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.