Karni Mata Temple, Deshnoke
करणी माता मंदिर, देशनोक
A goddess temple in Deshnoke where some 20,000 rats, considered sacred, are kept. Spotting a white rat is regarded as a good omen.
Karni Mata Temple is in the town of Deshnoke, about 30 km south of Bikaner. It honors Karni Mata, regarded as an incarnation of the goddess Durga. Tens of thousands of rats roam freely through the temple. Devotees believe they are reincarnations of the goddess's family, and they feed them milk and sweets. Seeing a rare white rat is considered lucky. The marble facade and silver doors were donated by Maharaja Ganga Singh. You must go barefoot inside, though socks are allowed. Those who are wary of rats should think twice. Take a bus or hire a car to get there.
Opening hours
Approx. 04:00–22:00
Nearby sights
- Jorbeer Conservation Reserve
- National Research Centre on Camel
- Laxminath Temple
- Bhandasar Jain Temple
- Rampuria Havelis
- Ganga Government Museum
- Kote Gate & Old City Bazaars
- Devi Kund Sagar