Sacred Heritage
Karni Mata Temple
Deshnoke, Rajasthan
State:Rajasthan
District:Deshnoke
Quick Facts
Location
Deshnoke
Presiding Deity
Goddess Karni Mata
Architecture
Rajput (Māru-Gurjara influence)
Dynasty
20th Century (Current structure)
Timings
Open from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. The best time for darshan is early morning when the rats are most active during feeding.
Entry Fee
Free
Best Time
October to March offers pleasant weather in Bikaner. Early morning visits (6:00-8:00 AM) are best to see the rats being actively fed. The Navratri periods (March-April and September-October) offer the most festive atmosphere. Summer months (April-June) can be extremely hot (45°C+).
Overview
A unique temple famous for its thousands of sacred rats (kabbas) that are worshipped and protected by devotees as reincarnations of Karni Mata's clan.
History & Legacy
Karni Mata (1387-1538 CE), also known as Ridhu Bai, was born in the village of Suwap near Phalodi into a Charan family. The temple was originally constituted around 1530 after Karni Mata's mahaprayan (passing). It began with the inner sanctum and dome, growing over centuries as devotees added structures. The current grand marble facade, silver doors, and Rajput-style architecture were commissioned by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner in the early 20th century.
Mythology & Legends
“According to legend, when Karni Mata's stepson Laxman (Lakhan) drowned in a pond, she pleaded with Yama, the god of death, to revive him. When Yama refused, Karni Mata declared that henceforth none of her clan members would die but would be reborn as rats (kabba) within the temple precincts. Upon their death as rats, they would be reborn as human Charanas, maintaining this cycle of transmigration. The rats are thus considered the embodied forms of her departed kinsmen. The white rats among them are believed to be manifestations of Karni Mata herself and her four nephews, making their sighting exceptionally auspicious.”
Architecture
The temple is built in the Rajput architectural style with a marble facade featuring solid silver doors installed by Maharaja Ganga Singh. The silver doors are engraved with panels depicting legends of the goddess. The inner sanctum houses the image of Karni Mata, which is 1 foot 3 inches wide and 2.5 feet tall. The temple floor is made of marble with intricate crisscross patterns. The original small shrine, built 600 years ago by Karni Mata herself from brick and round stones, is preserved within the complex. Protective wire netting covers the temple to shield the rats from predatory birds while allowing them free movement.
Religious & Cultural Significance
The temple is home to approximately 20,000-25,000 black rats, called 'kabba', which roam freely throughout the complex. They are considered holy and treated with utmost care. Devotees offer milk, sweets, and grains to the rats. The prasadam (blessed food) touched by the rats is considered sacred and believed to have healing properties. Spotting a white rat is considered exceptionally auspicious — visitors often make special efforts to bring them forth with offerings. The temple is renowned internationally and draws curious tourists alongside pilgrims. Remarkably, despite the thousands of rats, there has never been a plague outbreak at the site, which devotees consider a miracle of Karni Mata.
Daily Rituals
Daily rituals include offering milk, sweets (especially laddus), and grains to the thousands of kabba rats that roam the temple. The rats feed from large iron pots of halwa (sweet pudding) prepared in the temple kitchen. Devotees circumambulate the inner sanctum and offer prayers to Karni Mata's idol. The prasadam that the rats have touched is distributed to devotees and is believed to have curative properties. The temple priests, descendants of Karni Mata's Depawat clan, perform the main sevas following Shakta rituals.
Festivals & Celebrations
The Karni Mata Fair (Mela) is held twice a year during Navratri — in March-April (Chaitra Navratri) and September-October (Sharad Navratri). These nine-night festivals attract thousands of devotees who come to seek the goddess's blessings. Special rituals and extended darshan hours are observed. During these fairs, the temple is decorated with lights and flowers, and community kitchens (bhandaras) serve free meals to pilgrims.
Interesting Facts
Famous globally for its sacred rats (kabba) and its exquisite silver doors and marble carvings.
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
October to March offers pleasant weather in Bikaner. Early morning visits (6:00-8:00 AM) are best to see the rats being actively fed. The Navratri periods (March-April and September-October) offer the most festive atmosphere. Summer months (April-June) can be extremely hot (45°C+).
Temple Timings
Open from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. The best time for darshan is early morning when the rats are most active during feeding.
How to Reach & Visitor Tips
Deshnoke is 30 km south of Bikaner on the Bikaner-Jodhpur highway. The nearest airport is Jodhpur (250 km) or Jaipur (350 km). Bikaner Junction railway station (30 km) is well-connected to major cities. Regular buses and taxis from Bikaner to Deshnoke are available. Shoes must be removed before entering. Photography is restricted inside the inner sanctum. Visitors with musophobia (fear of rats) may find the experience challenging. The rats run freely over feet, so closed-toe footwear (to be removed at entrance) is recommended for the approach.
Nearby Attractions
Bikaner city (30 km) offers the Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, National Research Centre on Camel (Camel Farm), and the Bikaner havelis. The Devi Kund Sagar (20 km) is the royal crematorium of the Bikaner rulers with beautiful chhatris. The Ganga Singh Museum in Bikaner displays artifacts of the region's history. The Kolayat Temple (50 km) on the Kolayat Lake is another major pilgrimage site near Bikaner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How many rats are in the Karni Mata Temple?
A. The temple is home to approximately 20,000-25,000 rats (kabba). They roam freely throughout the complex and are cared for by the temple staff who consider them as kin.
Q. Why are the rats considered sacred?
A. According to legend, Karni Mata's stepson Lakhan drowned, and she asked Yama (god of death) to revive him. When refused, she decreed her clansmen would be reborn as rats in the temple, and upon death as rats, return as human Charanas. The rats are thus believed to be reincarnated family members.
Q. What is the significance of seeing a white rat?
A. White rats are believed to be manifestations of Karni Mata herself and her four nephews. Seeing one is considered exceptionally auspicious and a sign of special divine blessing. Visitors often spend extra time to spot them.
Q. How do I reach Deshnoke from Bikaner?
A. Deshnoke is 30 km south of Bikaner on the Bikaner-Jodhpur highway. Local buses depart frequently from Bikaner's main bus stand. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are also available for the 30-minute drive.
Q. Is it safe to visit with so many rats?
A. Yes, the temple is safe and has been visited by millions without incident. The rats are not aggressive and are accustomed to human presence. The temple has never had a plague outbreak, which devotees consider miraculous.
Did You Know?
- The temple complex extends over 30 km area, showcasing monumental architecture.
- This temple was built under the patronage of the 20th Century (Current structure) dynasty, reflecting their architectural vision.
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Visiting as an International Traveller
India's temples are living traditions — not museums. Every temple has its own customs. This guide helps first-time visitors prepare with confidence and respect.
Foreign visitor information is being researched
Please verify with the official temple authority before planning your visit.
Entry Status
Foreign Visitors
Verify Before VisitingVisitor Information
Entry policies vary between temples. Most temples welcome visitors, while some may restrict access to specific areas, rituals, or the inner sanctum. Always verify the latest entry guidelines with the official temple authorities before your visit.
Dress Code
Modest clothing is expected at every Indian temple — a sign of respect, not a restriction. Think of it as dressing for a formal ceremony.
Shoulders covered
Knees covered
Shoes removed before entry
Head covering (women)
Rain gear available
Warm layers (winter)
A scarf is always useful — it covers shoulders, works as a head covering, and can double as a makeshift face cover if needed.
Temple Etiquette
Remove footwearShoes and sandals are left outside. Socks are usually fine. Most temples provide free shoe storage.
Silence phonesSwitch to silent or vibrate before entering. Phone calls inside the temple are considered disrespectful.
Queue patientlyDarshan queues can be long — sometimes hours at major temples. Wait your turn calmly. No pushing or cutting.
No touching idolsUnless a priest explicitly invites you, never touch the deities. This is considered a serious breach of respect.
No flash photographyFlash disturbs the sacred atmosphere. Some temples ban all cameras inside the inner sanctum.
No smoking or alcoholTemple premises are strictly smoke-free and alcohol-free. This includes e-cigarettes.
Receive prasadam respectfullyAccept with both hands or right hand. Never refuse. Eat it — do not discard blessed offerings.
Respect restricted areasCertain areas may be off-limits to visitors. Follow signage and priest instructions.
No public displays of affectionTemples are conservative spaces. Avoid hugging, kissing, or intimate behaviour on the premises.
Dress conservativelyAvoid revealing clothing. Tight, transparent, or ripped clothes are not appropriate.
Photography Guide
Outside
Inside
Flash
Drone
Tripod
Commercial
Outdoor photography is generally permitted. Indoor photography is often restricted. Always look for signage or ask a priest before taking photos inside.
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
October to March offers pleasant weather in Bikaner. Early morning visits (6:00-8:00 AM) are best to see the rats being actively fed. The Navratri periods (March-April and September-October) offer the most festive atmosphere. Summer months (April-June) can be extremely hot (45°C+).
Moderate to High — comfortable weather
Summer
April — June
Low — hot plains, pleasant hills
Monsoon
July — September
Low — lush landscape, travel delays possible
Language & Communication
English spoken
English is widely understood at major tourist temples. In smaller local temples, Hindi and the regional language are more common. A smile and simple hand gestures go a long way. Learning a few words of the local language is always appreciated.
Payment & Currency
Cash (Indian Rupees) is the most reliable option, especially for temple offerings, small shops, and local transport.
UPI digital payments (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm) are widely accepted across India — even at roadside stalls. Download one before you arrive.
International credit/debit cards work at most ATMs, hotels, and larger establishments. Smaller vendors may only accept cash or UPI.
Carry small denominations (₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100 notes) for offerings and temple donations. Large notes (₹500, ₹2000) can be hard to break at smaller counters.
Accessibility
Many historic temples have uneven stone floors, multiple steps, and narrow passages. Wheelchair access is limited at older sites — contact the temple in advance.
Basic restroom facilities and drinking water are available at most major temples. Some charge a small fee (₹5–₹10).
Safety Tips
Stay hydrated — carry a reusable water bottle, especially in hot climates.
Keep valuables secure — use hotel lockers for passports and excess cash.
Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear — temple floors can be hot, wet, or uneven.
Beware of unofficial guides or touts near temple entrances. Only use authorised services.
Carry a photocopy of your passport and visa. Leave originals in your hotel safe.
Download offline maps — mobile networks can be unreliable near remote temple sites.
Understanding Temple Traditions
These short explanations help make sense of what you see and experience.
What is Darshan?
Darshan means 'seeing' — but in a temple it means being seen by the deity. It is a sacred moment of connection, not just a viewing.
Why remove shoes?
Removing footwear is a sign of humility. It also keeps the temple floor clean, since devotees sit and pray on the ground.
What is Prasadam?
Food offered to the deity and then distributed to devotees. It is considered blessed. Accept it with both hands and do not discard it.
Why ring the bell?
The bell creates a focused acoustic atmosphere, wards off distractions, and announces your presence before entering the inner sanctum.
Why walk clockwise?
Circumambulation (pradakshina) is done clockwise, keeping the sanctum on your right — an auspicious direction aligned with the sun's path.
What do offerings mean?
Flowers symbolise devotion, coconuts represent the ego being broken, incense purifies the air, and lamps represent the victory of light over darkness.
Tips for International Visitors
Temple Vocabulary
Darshan/ DAR-shan /
Sacred viewing of the deity; the central act of temple worship.
Pradakshina/ pra-DAK-shee-na /
Clockwise circumambulation of the sanctum.
Prasadam/ PRA-sa-dam /
Blessed food offered to the deity and distributed to devotees.
Garbhagriha/ GAR-bha-GREE-ha /
The innermost sanctum where the main deity resides.
Shikhaara/ shi-KHAA-ra /
The towering spire above the sanctum, a defining feature of temple architecture.
Mandapa/ MAN-da-pa /
A pillared hall or pavilion within the temple complex.
Currency Tips
The Indian Rupee (?, INR) is the local currency. ATMs are widely available in cities and towns. For temple offerings, keep small notes (₹10, ₹20, ₹50). Most temples accept donations in cash only — digital payments are uncommon at the offering counter itself.
Donation Etiquette
Offerings (dakshina) are given with the right hand. Place cash in the donation box (hundi) or give it directly to the priest. There is no fixed amount — give what feels appropriate. Some temples have fixed fees for special entry or puja participation.
Removing Footwear
Shoes and sandals are removed before entering the temple building. Most temples have a designated shoe counter (free or a small fee of ₹5–₹20). Socks are generally allowed. In monsoon, carry a plastic bag for wet shoes.
Temple Queue System
Darshan queues can take 30 minutes to 3 hours at popular temples. Many offer paid VIP darshan (₹100–₹500) for faster entry. Special queues for women, elderly, and disabled visitors exist at some temples. No line jumping.
Festival Crowd Warning
Major festivals draw enormous crowds — sometimes hundreds of thousands. Book accommodation months in advance. Expect road closures, restricted vehicle access, and limited phone network. Arrive early (before dawn) to avoid the worst congestion.
Photography Etiquette
Always look for signage before taking photos. When in doubt, ask a priest. Never take photos of devotees in prayer without permission. Selfie sticks are banned at most temples. Silently switch your phone to silent mode.
Essential Contacts
Police / Ambulance / Fire: 112 (National Emergency Number)
Tourist Helpline: 1800-111-363 (Multi-lingual, Ministry of Tourism)
Women's Helpline: 1091
Travel Preparation Checklist
Packing Checklist for Karni Mata Temple
Continue Reading
Temple-specific visitor information is continuously researched and updated from official sources. Where specific data is unavailable, general India travel guidance is provided. Always verify current policies with the temple authority before your visit.
Information last verified July 2026. Temple-specific data coming soon.
By Sacred Places India Editorial Team
Updated: July 2026
Related:Rajasthan TemplesGoddess Karni MataRajput (Māru-Gurjara influence) Style20th Century (Current structure)Methodology
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20th Century (Current structure)
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