Karni Mata Temple

Karni Mata Temple is widely known for the presence of thousands of rats, which are treated with respect and care by devotees. Seeing a white rat among them is believed to be especially auspicious.

The temple is also an important pilgrimage site in Rajasthan and holds cultural importance for local communities and followers of Karni Mata.

Karni Mata Temple in Deshnoke is one of the most unusual temples in India. It is associated with Karni Mata, a female mystic who lived during the 14th and 15th centuries and was regarded by followers as a divine incarnation of Goddess Durga. She played an important role in the history of the region and is believed to have blessed the royal family of Bikaner.

The temple structure was developed by rulers of Bikaner who were devoted to Karni Mata. Over time, the temple became famous for the thousands of sacred rats that live within the complex. Devotees consider these rats holy and believe they represent the souls of Karni Mata’s followers.

By Road: Deshnoke is well connected by road from Bikaner and nearby cities.

By Rail: Deshnoke Railway Station is about 1 km from the temple.

By Air: The nearest airport is Jodhpur Airport, approximately 250 km away.

Bikaner – About 30 km

Jodhpur – About 250 km

Jaipur – About 335 km

Delhi – About 460 km

Main sanctum dedicated to Karni Mata

Marble courtyard with silver entrance gates

Small shrines for Hindu deities within the complex

Large temple halls for devotees

Spaces where sacred rats are protected and fed

Junagarh Fort – Historic fort in Bikaner city.

Lalgarh Palace – Heritage palace built by Bikaner rulers.

Bhandasar Jain Temple – Famous Jain temple known for its carvings.

Gajner Palace – Historic lakeside palace near Bikaner.

Mangala Aarti – Around 4:30 AM

Morning Darshan – After Mangala Aarti

Bhog Offering – Midday

Evening Aarti – Around sunset

Special Pooja – During Navratri and temple festivals

Navratri is the most important festival celebrated at Karni Mata Temple. Devotees visit the temple during both the Chaitra Navratri and Sharad Navratri to offer prayers and seek blessings of the goddess.

Large numbers of pilgrims also visit throughout the year, especially during regional fairs dedicated to Karni Mata. The temple remains active with religious ceremonies, devotional singing, and offerings.