Bikaner Things to DoKarni Mata Temple (Deshnoke)

Karni Mata Temple (Deshnoke)

4.7

Bikaner2-3 hours

TemplePilgrimageUnique

About

The Karni Mata Temple at Deshnoke, 30 kilometres south of Bikaner, is one of the most unusual places to visit in Bikaner and a key highlight of Bikaner tourism. Around 25,000 sacred rats (kabbas) live in the complex and are worshipped as reincarnations of Karni Mata’s devotees, making it one of the most unique things to do in Bikaner. Pilgrims eat food touched by the rats, considered mahaprasad, and spotting a rare white rat is believed to be highly auspicious, adding to its appeal in any Bikaner travel guide. The temple itself, with silver doors and intricate marble carvings, is also a notable stop on Bikaner sightseeing itineraries.

Highlights

What makes this place special

Sacred Rats

Around 25,000 black rats roam freely through the marble halls of Karni Mata Temple, fed milk and prasad daily and worshipped as sacred incarnations of devotees, making it one of the most unique places to visit in Bikaner and a fascinating highlight of Bikaner tourism.

Silver Temple Door

The main entrance of Karni Mata Temple is fitted with solid silver doors carved with scenes from Karni Mata’s life, commissioned by Maharaja Ganga Singh in the early 20th century, making it a notable highlight of Bikaner tourism and an important stop on Bikaner sightseeing itineraries.