Location | Bikaner

The Uniqueness: A Sanctuary for the ‘Kabbas’

What sets the Karni Mata Temple apart is its remarkable population of over 25,000 rats, who live and roam freely within the temple premises.

• Sacred Residents: These rodents, locally called Kabbas (meaning ‘little children’), are revered by devotees, not as pests, but as sacred beings. They are believed to be the reincarnated souls of the Charan clan, the descendants of Karni Mata herself.
• The White Rats: Keep an eye out for the rare White Rats. They are considered exceptionally holy, as they are believed to be the manifestations of Karni Mata and her four nephews. Sighting a white rat is considered a special blessing and a sign of immense good fortune.
• A Divine Meal: Devotees offer milk, sweets, and grains to the rats. Eating prasad (holy food) that has been nibbled by a kabba is considered a high honor and a source of divine blessings.

The Legend of Karni Mata

The temple is dedicated to Karni Mata, a 14th-century Hindu warrior sage of the Charan clan, who is worshipped as an incarnation of Goddess Durga.

• A Mother’s Plea: The most popular legend behind the rats revolves around the stepson of Karni Mata, named Laxman, who drowned in a pond. In her grief, Karni Mata implored Yama, the Hindu God of Death, to restore his life.
• The Reincarnation Vow: When Yama initially refused, Karni Mata’s immense power forced a compromise. Yama relented, allowing Laxman and all her future male followers from the Charan clan to be reincarnated as rats (Kabbas) until they can be reborn as humans again. This belief explains the deep respect and protection given to the rats.
• Historical Significance: Karni Mata also holds historical importance, having interceded on behalf of the Rathore rulers and is even credited with laying the foundation stones for the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur and the Bikaner Fort.

Architectural Splendour

Beyond the unique spiritual practice, the temple is an architectural marvel.

• Rajput and Mughal Fusion: The temple’s present structure was largely completed in the early 20th century by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner, showcasing a beautiful blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles.
• Ornate Entrance: The façade features magnificent marble carvings and solid silver doors, which are intricately detailed with panels depicting the legends of the Goddess.
• Inner Sanctum: Inside, the central image of Karni Mata is enshrined, often decked in rich attire, jewelry, and garlands.

Visitor Information

Location	Deshnok, approximately 30 km south of Bikaner, Rajasthan
Temple Timings	0400 hrs to 2200 hrs (daily)
Entry Fees	Free (Camera may be chargeable)
Best Time to Visit	The most vibrant time is during the Karni Mata Fairs (Navratras), held twice a year: once in March-April and again in September-October.
How To Reach	Easily accessible from Bikaner via taxi, bus, or local transport to Deshnok.