Welcome to Rat Temple India, located about 30km from the desert town of Bikaner in Deshnok. This temple is an extraordinary place where rats and humans live in harmony. Known globally for its large rat population, the Karni Mata Temple stands out for its unique coexistence of rodents and humans. Remarkably, despite the close interaction with these rats, there has never been an outbreak of disease or plague linked to them. Devotees even share sweets with the rats, which the rodents have tasted first.
The History of Karni Mata
The temple’s history is intertwined with the legend of Karni Mata. According to folklore, Karni Mata’s son died, and she implored the gods to revive him. While resurrecting him was against the laws of nature, the gods offered a different boon: her clan, the Charans, would be reincarnated as rats and inhabit this sacred place. Today, the temple’s rats are believed to be the reincarnated souls of the Charan clan, who were poets and devotees of the Rajput rulers and gods. These rats are revered and cared for as ancestors.
The history of Bikaner’s Karni Mata Temple is surrounded by a variety of tales.When Karni Mata’s stepson Laxman tried to drink water from Kapil Sarovar, he drowned, according to the most common version.
After learning of the occurrence, Yama, the deity of death, was summoned by Karni Mata. The god of death first rejected Laxman and all of Karni Mata’s sons, but he eventually relented and decided to allow their rebirth as rats.
According to another well-known urban legend, rats live in abundance at the Karni Mata Mandir complex. By a tale, many troops once opted to defect and return to Deshnok for their safety.
Architectural Marvels of the Temple
The temple, in its present form, was constructed in the 20th century by Maharaja Ganga Singh Ji of Bikaner. It features exquisite marble carvings depicting various animals, and its silver doors and marble lions guard the entrance. The temple’s architecture, including a recent dome addition over the Garbhgrah (sanctum sanctorum), showcases exceptional craftsmanship. Protective coverings ensure the rats’ safety from predators like eagles.
Cultural Practices and the Charan Clan
The Charan clan, to which Karni Mata belonged, plays a significant role in the temple. They serve as priests, manage the temple, and perform devotional songs, honoring their ancestral rats. This practice aligns with the Indian tradition of caring for ancestors, especially during the Hindu month of Shrad, where it’s customary to feed animals as a ritual for departed souls.
Offerings and Rituals
Visitors can observe rats enjoying sweet treats like ladoos and barfis, first offered to the deity and then shared with them. Uniquely, alcohol is also offered at this temple, a rarity in Hindu worship. Devotees contribute sweets and milk, poured into a large vessel for the rats. The temple complex is designed with rat-friendly features, including wall holes and a grain tub. Spotting a white rat, considered a rare and lucky occurrence, often attracts a crowd of onlookers.
Things You Need to Know Before You Visit Karni Mata Temple
This temple, also known as the Karni Mata Mandir, is one of Bikaner’s most popular tourist destinations. The villagers think Karni Mata manifests Goddess Durga, the Hindu religion’s protecting Mother Goddess.
In the fourteenth century, a Hindu warrior guru of the Charan caste named Karni Mata rose to prominence. Karni Mata, who lived as an ascetic, was respected by the villagers and gained a large following.
She even laid the foundation stones for the Mehrangarh and Bikaner forts after receiving pleas from the Maharajas of Jodhpur and Bikaner.
Deshnoke, a little village 30 kilometres from Bikaner, is the most famous temple devoted to her, despite the fact that there are several more.
History Of Karni Mata Temple
The history of Bikaner’s Karni Mata Temple comprises a variety of tales. When Karni Mata’s stepson Laxman tried to drink water from Kapil Sarovar, he drowned, according to the most common version.
After learning of the occurrence, Yama, the deity of death, was summoned by Karni Mata. The god of death first rejected Laxman and all of Karni Mata’s sons, but he eventually relented and decided to allow their rebirth as rats.
According to another well-known urban legend, rats live in abundance at the Karni Mata Mandir complex. By a tale, many troops once opted to defect and return to Deshnok for their safety.
Architecture Of Karni Mata Temple
Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner completed the building of the Karni Mata Temple in the early 20th century. Mughal architecture may be seen in the temple’s construction since it is entirely marbled.
The compound’s entrance is marked by gleaming silver doors complementing the building’s elegant marble front. The numerous myths surrounding the Goddess are shown on the doors’ panels. The statue of Karni Mata of Bikaner, a 75-cm-tall figure with a trident (Trishul) in one hand, is decked with a crown and garlands in the temple’s inner sanctuary.
On each side of the Goddess’s idol are the images of her two sisters. In 1999, Kundan Lal Verma, a Hyderabad-based Karni Jeweller, completed the temple’s additional improvement. His contribution to the temple was the marble sculptures and the silver gates.
Timing Of Karni Mata Temple
All seven days of the week, the Karni Mata Temple in Bikaner is available to visitors. This temple in Deshnok is open daily from 4 am to 10 pm.
These times are subject to vary, however, on exceptional occasions. No admission money is required to visit the museum, and photography is permitted.
Location Of Karni Mata Temple
If you’re curious about the exact location, it’s Karni Mata Niji Pranyas on NH 89 in Deshnok, Rajasthan 334801.
How To Reach Karni Mata Temple?
Reaching the Karni Mata Temple in Deshnoke near Bikaner, Rajasthan, involves a journey of about 30 kilometers from the city of Bikaner. There are several ways to get there:
By Road:
Private Vehicle/Taxi: The most convenient way to reach Karni Mata Temple is by hiring a taxi or driving a private vehicle from Bikaner. The drive is quite straightforward and takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.
Bus: Regular bus services are available from Bikaner to Deshnoke. Buses depart from Bikaner bus station and drop passengers near the temple. This is a more economical option compared to taxis but might take slightly longer.
By Rail:
The nearest railway station to the temple is Bikaner Junction, located around 16 km away. From the railway station, visitors can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple.
Accessibility and Proximity:
The temple is located conveniently and is accessible via well-maintained roads. It is situated in the small town of Deshnoke, which has become quite popular due to the temple, ensuring that the route is well known and frequently traveled.
Tours and Packages:
There are also organized tours and travel packages available that include a visit to Karni Mata Temple as part of a larger itinerary covering Bikaner and nearby attractions. These can be a convenient option for those who prefer not to manage the logistics of travel independently.
Local Guidance:
Once in Bikaner, local travel guides or hotel staff can also provide guidance on the best ways to reach the temple, considering current conditions and preferences.
When planning your visit, consider the time of day and year, as these factors can influence your travel experience. Early mornings or late afternoons might be preferable to avoid the heat, especially if traveling by bus or if you plan to walk around the area.
Activities at the Karni Mata Temple
Visiting the Karni Mata Temple offers a range of unique and culturally rich activities:
Observing and Feeding the Rats: The temple’s most notable feature is its population of over 25,000 rats, considered sacred. Visitors often engage in feeding these rats with treats available from nearby stalls. It’s believed that feeding the rats is akin to making offerings to Goddess Durga.
Seeking Blessings and Good Fortune: Many devotees visit the temple to seek blessings from Karni Mata for good fortune and protection. It’s a common belief that spotting a white rat among the thousands of black ones is a sign of good luck.
Participating in Religious Rituals: Mangla Aarti is performed at 4 am by the temple’s prominent priest, who then serves a particular kind of food called bhog to Karni Mata as a form of adoration. Visitors and worshippers may then give the rats prasad and milk, considered very auspicious by the locals.
Exploring the Temple’s Architecture: The temple, influenced by Mughal-style architecture, boasts an elegant marble façade and intricate carvings, making it a delight for architecture enthusiasts.
Visiting During the Karni Mata Festival: If timing allows, visitors can attend the Karni Mata Festival, held twice a year. This festival is a vibrant celebration with rituals and decorations, attracting thousands of devotees.
Exploring the In-house Museum: The temple houses a small museum where visitors can learn about the life and miracles of Karni Mata through images and informational placards.
Photography: For those interested in photography, a photo/video pass can be purchased to capture the unique aspects of the temple and its inhabitants. However, be mindful of the temple’s guidelines regarding photography.
Cultural Exploration: Beyond the religious significance, the temple offers a glimpse into the rich and diverse culture of Rajasthan. It’s an opportunity to witness a unique blend of faith, tradition, and local customs.
Fair
Twice a year, the Karni Mata Temple holds fairs. Chaitra Shukla Ekam to Chaitra Shukla Dashmi is the first in March/April during Navratri, according to the panchangam.
The second fair is held from Ashwin Shukla Paksha Prathama to Ashwin Shukla Paksha Dashmi in September/October. Devotees go to Karni Mata Temple in large numbers during different periods of the year.
In addition, Rajputs visit this temple with their children for ceremonies such as Jadula (the first haircut of youngsters) and seek the Goddess’s blessings.
Nearby Attractions Of Karni Mata Temple
You may visit temples such as Temde Rai Mata, Vishwakarma, and Om Banna when you visit Karni Mata Mandir. In addition, you may sample some of the best Rajasthani cuisines at local restaurants.
Junagarh Fort: This historical fort in Bikaner is a must-visit for its impressive architecture and rich history. The fort, with its beautiful interiors and imposing structure, provides insight into the royal heritage of Rajasthan.
Lalgarh Palace: Another architectural marvel in Bikaner, Lalgarh Palace is known for its blend of Rajput, Mughal, and European architectural styles. The palace also houses a museum displaying the rich history of Bikaner.
Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary: Located on the banks of Gajner Lake, this sanctuary is home to various species of flora and fauna. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Bikaner Camel Research Centre: This unique research center offers insights into the breeding and management of camels, which are an integral part of Rajasthan’s culture and economy.
Rampuria Haveli: Famous for its exquisite architecture and ornate interiors, Rampuria Haveli in Bikaner is a series of mansions showcasing the lavish lifestyle of the wealthy merchants of the past.
National Research Centre on Camel: An interesting place to learn about the different breeds of camels and their role in the desert ecosystem. Visitors can enjoy camel rides and taste camel milk products.
Devi Kund Sagar: This is a royal crematorium with several ornate cenotaphs, showcasing Rajput architecture and the history of Bikaner’s royal families.
Prachina Museum: Located in Bikaner, this museum displays a rich collection of royal costumes, textiles, and accessories, offering a glimpse into the cultural heritage of Rajasthan.
Conclusion
Visitors of all kinds will find enough to see and do in Bikaner. Bikaner won’t let you down, whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture, or a thrill seeker. The city has so much to offer that even a single trip isn’t enough to do it justice.
It is one of the holiest temples in Bikaner, visited by hundreds of worshippers throughout the year. According to legend, many people think that Karni Mata was the reincarnation of the Goddess Jagadamba.
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