Karni Mata Temple, Deshnok
The Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok, Rajasthan, is one of the most unique and revered temples in India. It is famously known as the “Rat Temple” due to the presence of over 25,000 sacred rats, which are considered holy and worshipped by devotees. Dedicated to Karni Mata, an incarnation of Goddess Durga, the temple holds immense religious and spiritual significance.
The temple is located around 30 km from Bikaner and attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists, especially during the Navratri festival. The rats, known as kabas, are believed to bring good fortune to those who spot or touch them, especially the rare white rats, which are considered highly auspicious.
Mythological and Historical Significance
According to legend, Karni Mata was a 14th-century mystic and saint believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga. When her stepson, Laxman, drowned in a pond, Karni Mata pleaded with Yama (the god of death) to bring him back to life. Yama refused, but Karni Mata, using her divine powers, resurrected Laxman and declared that all her male children would be reborn as rats. Thus, the rats in the temple are believed to be reincarnations of her devotees.
Historically, the current structure of the temple was built by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner in the 20th century. The temple’s architecture and intricate carvings reflect the grandeur of Rajasthani craftsmanship.
Architecture and Design
The Karni Mata Temple is a fine example of Rajput architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and detailed marble work.
Key architectural highlights include:
- Marble Facade: The entrance features a stunning marble facade with beautifully carved doors and panels depicting various deities.
- Silver Gate: The temple’s main gate is made of silver, with intricate motifs of flowers, animals, and deities.
- Sanctum Sanctorum (Garbhagriha): The inner sanctum houses the idol of Karni Mata, adorned with a crown and garlands.
- Rat-filled Courtyard: The temple’s courtyard is home to thousands of black and white rats, which freely roam around and are fed by devotees.
- Ornate Ceiling and Walls: The walls and ceilings are decorated with golden and silver embellishments, adding to the temple’s grandeur.
Rituals and Festivals
- Rat Worship: The temple is famous for its rat worship. Devotees feed the rats with milk, grains, and sweets, believing it brings blessings and good fortune.
- Spotting White Rats: It is considered extremely auspicious to spot or touch a white rat, which is believed to be the reincarnation of Karni Mata herself.
- Navratri Festival: The Navratri festival (held twice a year) is the most significant celebration at the temple, attracting thousands of pilgrims. The temple is beautifully decorated, and special prayers and aartis are performed.
- Prasad Offering: The food nibbled by the rats is considered blessed prasad, and devotees consume it as a token of divine grace.
Visiting Information
- Location: Deshnok, near Bikaner, Rajasthan
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Timings:
- Morning: 4:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Evening: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: During Navratri (March-April and September-October) for a vibrant spiritual experience.
How to Reach
- By Air: Nearest airport – Nal Airport, Bikaner (27 km away) or Jodhpur Airport (230 km away)
- By Rail: Nearest railway station – Deshnok Railway Station (1 km) or Bikaner Junction (30 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Bikaner, Jodhpur, and Jaipur.
Nearby Attractions
- Junagarh Fort: Located in Bikaner, this fort is famous for its intricate architecture and historical artifacts.
- Laxmi Niwas Palace: A magnificent heritage hotel and former royal residence.
- Gajner Palace and Wildlife Sanctuary: Known for its scenic beauty and wildlife safaris.
- Bikaner Camel Safari: Experience the desert landscape through an adventurous camel ride.
Tips for Visitors
- Walk barefoot carefully as the rats roam freely.
- Avoid stepping on the rats, as it is considered inauspicious and may require offering a silver or gold rat idol as penance.
- Do not panic if the rats climb on you – it is seen as a blessing.
- Carry sanitizers and wipes for hygiene purposes after your visit.
