El Tod – A Historic Village in India
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Chamba district in Himachal Pradesh, India, lies the ancient village of El Tod. This quaint mountain village serves as a gateway to the majestic Trilokpur and Sui Mata temples and exudes a rustic charm that is unique to this part of the country. With its lush green landscape, natural springs, and traditional architecture, El Tod is a great destination for travelers looking for a peaceful escape.
History of El Tod
El Tod is a historical place with evidence of human settlement dating back to the 8th century. According to local folklore, it was founded in the 8th century by the Raja of Chamba, Raja Sahil Varman. This was followed by the construction of the Trilokpur temple in the 9th century to honor the goddess Sui Mata. The village was then passed on to the family of Raja Gopal Singh, who used El Tod as their summer retreat.
What to See in El Tod
The village of El Tod is best known for its two main attractions – the Trilokpur and Sui Mata temples. The Trilokpur temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been constructed in the 9th century by Raja Gopal Singh. This temple is particularly renowned for its intricately carved pillars and is said to be the only one of its kind in the Chamba district.
The Sui Mata temple is another important religious site in El Tod. It is dedicated to the goddess Sui Mata, who is believed to be the patron deity of the Chamba district. The temple is constructed in the traditional ‘pahari’ style and houses a number of idols and sculptures of various deities.
Apart from these two temples, El Tod also offers some stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Located at an elevation of around 800 meters above sea level, the village offers breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas.
How to Reach El Tod
El Tod is located about 20 km from Chamba and can be easily reached by road. The nearest railway station is in Pathankot, which is about 150 km away. The closest airport is located in Gaggal, which is about 200 km away.
Accommodation in El Tod
El Tod is a small village and does not have any hotels or guesthouses. However, there are a few homestays in the village that offer basic accommodation. There are also some camping sites nearby where travelers can pitch their tents and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
The Bottom Line
El Tod is a charming mountain village nestled in the hills of Himachal Pradesh. With its lush green landscape, picturesque views, and ancient temples, it is a great destination for travelers looking for a peaceful getaway. Whether you’re looking to explore the village’s historic sites or just want to take in the stunning views, El Tod is sure to leave you with lasting memories.