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Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata Temple

A hilltop shrine to a sage said to have lived 151 years and vanished without a trace, reached by 150 steps or a scenic ropeway.

Deity
Karni Mata (Incarnation of Durga)
Built By
Maharana Karan Singh, 1622-1628
Location
Machla Magra Hills
Access
150 Steps or 5-6 Min Ropeway

Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata Temple, Deshnok – A Unique Spiritual Landmark of Rajasthan

Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata Temple, popularly known as Karni Mata Temple Deshnok or the Rat Temple of Rajasthan, is one of the most unusual and fascinating pilgrimage destinations near Bikaner. Located in the town of Deshnok, the temple is dedicated to Karni Mata, a revered Hindu saint and spiritual figure traditionally associated with the Charan community.

What makes this temple unlike almost any other major shrine in India is the presence of thousands of rats, locally known as kabbas, that freely move throughout the temple premises. These rats are considered sacred by devotees and are cared for as part of the temple's longstanding religious tradition. Rajasthan Tourism describes the temple as a unique shrine dedicated to Karni Mata and highlights the sacred rats as one of its defining characteristics.

Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata Temple Deshnok Rajasthan
Karni Mata Temple Deshnok entrance Rajasthan
Karni Mata Temple marble architecture Deshnok

Who Was Karni Mata?

Karni Mata is traditionally believed to have lived sometime between the 14th and 16th centuries and is revered as a female Hindu saint. Her life, spiritual power and legends have become deeply connected with the religious traditions of Deshnok and the surrounding Bikaner region. The temple remains an important centre of devotion for people who seek the blessings of Karni Mata for protection, prosperity and fulfilment of their wishes.

The name Manshapurna is associated with the belief that the goddess fulfils the wishes of devotees. For pilgrims, the temple is therefore more than a curiosity because of its rats; it is an active place of worship where devotees come to pray, make offerings and participate in traditional rituals.

Why Are Rats Considered Sacred Here?

The rats living within the temple are known as kabbas and are regarded as sacred. According to local religious tradition, they are associated with the followers of Karni Mata and are treated with great respect. Devotees feed them and consider sightings of certain rats, particularly a rare white rat, especially auspicious.

The temple's tradition of allowing the kabbas to move freely through its courtyards and worship spaces is one of the main reasons Karni Mata Temple has gained international attention. Visitors should remember that this is a living religious tradition and behave respectfully rather than treating the animals merely as a tourist attraction.

Sacred kabbas at Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata Temple Deshnok

The Famous Rat Temple of Rajasthan

Karni Mata Temple is popularly called the Rat Temple of Rajasthan because of its unusually large population of sacred rats. Rajasthan Tourism notes that the temple is known around the world for the kabbas that roam freely within its premises. Their presence has become inseparable from the identity of the shrine.

For travellers, the experience can be striking at first because the rats are visible throughout the temple. However, for devotees, their presence is part of a sacred tradition rather than something unusual or disturbing. The temple's atmosphere combines prayer, devotion, ritual offerings and the constant movement of the kabbas across its marble floors.

Temple Architecture

Despite its unusual reputation, the temple is also notable for its architecture. The present temple is built predominantly using stone and marble, with an ornate marble façade and silver doors. Beautiful marble carving and decorative silver work add to the visual character of the shrine.

Rajasthan Tourism records that the temple was built in the early 20th century during the reign of Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner. The shrine was further enhanced in 1999, when Kundan Lal Verma contributed marble carvings and silver gates.

The Marble and Silver Work

One of the first things visitors notice after entering the temple is the extensive use of marble and silver. The silver doors and decorative panels feature representations connected with the legends and traditions of Karni Mata, while the marble surfaces provide an elegant contrast to the bustling activity of the temple.

The architecture gives the temple an identity that extends beyond its famous kabbas. Travellers interested in Rajasthan's religious architecture can therefore appreciate the shrine both for its devotional significance and for its craftsmanship.

A Living Place of Worship

Karni Mata Temple is not simply a heritage monument. It continues to function as an active Hindu temple where devotees perform prayers, offer bhog and seek the blessings of the goddess. Regular worship includes Mangla-ki-Aarti and offerings made by Charan priests.

Devotees also make offerings connected with the temple and its sacred kabbas. These traditions are an important part of understanding the temple and explain why respectful behaviour is particularly important when visiting.

Karni Mata Temple and the Bikaner Region

Deshnok is located near the historic city of Bikaner and the Karni Mata Temple is one of the region's best-known religious attractions. Bikaner itself is famous for its forts, havelis, desert landscape and royal heritage, making Deshnok an easy spiritual addition to a wider Bikaner itinerary.

For travellers exploring Rajasthan, a visit to Karni Mata Temple offers a very different experience from the state's famous palaces and forts. It introduces visitors to a living tradition that remains deeply connected with local faith and the cultural identity of the Bikaner region.

Why visit

🚡
Scenic Ropeway
A 5-6 minute ride over Udaipur's lakes to reach the temple.
👣
150-Step Climb
A half-hour hike from Deen Dayal Park for those who prefer to walk.
✨
A Sage Who Vanished
Karni Mata is said to have disappeared at age 151.
🌆
Panoramic City Views
Sweeping views over Udaipur's lakes from the hilltop.

Visiting Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata Temple, Deshnok – Timings, How to Reach & Travel Tips

A visit to Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok is unlike a conventional temple visit. Along with seeking the blessings of Karni Mata, travellers experience a centuries-old religious tradition in which the sacred kabbas are an integral part of temple life. Since Deshnok is close to Bikaner, the temple can easily be included in a Bikaner sightseeing itinerary.

Whether you are visiting as a pilgrim, a heritage traveller or simply want to understand one of Rajasthan's most distinctive religious traditions, planning your visit around the temple timings, weather and festival calendar can make the experience more comfortable.

Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata Temple Deshnok interior
Sacred rats at Karni Mata Temple Deshnok
Karni Mata Temple Deshnok marble and silver details

Karni Mata Temple Timings

According to the current Rajasthan Tourism information, Karni Mata Temple is open every day from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM. This gives pilgrims considerable flexibility when planning a visit around their Bikaner sightseeing schedule. Temple activities and worship follow their own daily religious routines, so visitors interested in attending a particular ritual should plan accordingly.

Early morning is particularly suitable for travellers who want to experience the temple atmosphere before the surrounding area becomes busier. Festival days can be considerably more crowded, and visitors should allow additional time for darshan.

Is There an Entry Fee?

There is no general entry fee for visiting Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata Temple. Devotees may make voluntary religious offerings according to their wishes and the temple's customary practices.

How to Reach Karni Mata Temple from Bikaner

By road: Deshnok is approximately 30 km from Bikaner and the temple is easily accessible by road. Taxis, private cars and local transport can be used to reach the temple. Rajasthan Tourism identifies Deshnok as one of the major religious attractions around Bikaner.

By train: Bikaner is an important railway destination with connections to major Indian cities. Travellers can reach Bikaner by train and continue to Deshnok by road or local transport. Rajasthan Tourism lists Bikaner among the state's major railway stations.

By air: Travellers arriving by air can use Bikaner's airport connectivity and then continue towards Deshnok by road. Flight availability should be checked for the travel date because air connectivity can vary.

Karni Mata Temple Deshnok Rajasthan sacred kabbas

Best Time to Visit Karni Mata Temple

The most comfortable period for exploring Bikaner and Deshnok is generally during the cooler months, particularly from October to March. Rajasthan's desert climate can become extremely hot during summer, making outdoor sightseeing less comfortable during the middle of the day.

If your priority is a more relaxed temple visit, choose a non-festival day and arrive early. If you want to experience the temple at its most vibrant, visiting during Navratri provides an opportunity to witness the large religious gatherings associated with the Karni Mata fairs.

Karni Mata Fair and Navratri Celebrations

The Karni Mata Fair is held twice a year during the two Navratri periods. Rajasthan Tourism identifies one fair during the Chaitra Navratri period, generally falling between March and April, and another during the Ashwin Navratri period, generally falling between September and October. Thousands of devotees attend these celebrations.

During the fairs, Deshnok becomes significantly busier than on ordinary days. Pilgrims arrive to offer prayers and participate in the religious celebrations, creating a lively atmosphere around the temple. Visitors travelling during Navratri should expect crowds and plan transportation and darshan accordingly.

Temple Rituals and Offerings

Regular temple worship includes Mangla-ki-Aarti and bhog offerings performed by Charan priests. Devotees also make offerings to Karni Mata and the sacred kabbas. Rajasthan Tourism identifies traditional offerings as Dwar-bhent and Kalash-bhent, associated respectively with priests and temple workers and with temple maintenance.

Visitors do not need to participate in every ritual. Those who wish to make offerings should follow the instructions of temple priests and staff rather than attempting to feed or interact with the kabbas independently.

What Should You Expect Inside the Temple?

The first thing many visitors notice is the large number of rats moving freely across the temple complex. These kabbas are considered sacred and are treated as an important part of the religious tradition. The experience can be surprising for first-time visitors, particularly because the rats may be present close to devotees and around areas where food offerings are placed.

Visitors should approach the experience with cultural sensitivity. The temple is a functioning place of worship, not simply a wildlife attraction, and respectful behaviour is expected throughout the premises.

A Rare White Rat at Karni Mata Temple

Among the many kabbas, visitors may hear about the temple's rare white rats. Within the temple's religious tradition, seeing one is considered particularly auspicious. However, these sightings are not guaranteed, so visitors should not disturb the animals or attempt to search for them aggressively.

Temple Etiquette and Dress Code

Dress modestly and comfortably when visiting the temple. Since this is an active Hindu shrine, visitors should avoid clothing that may be considered inappropriate for a place of worship. Follow local instructions regarding footwear, photography and movement through restricted areas.

Do not intentionally step on or harm a rat. Move carefully through crowded areas and allow the kabbas to pass naturally. Visitors should also avoid shouting, chasing animals or attempting to force them into photographs.

Photography at the Temple

Photography can be an important part of the visit, particularly because of the temple's marble architecture and distinctive atmosphere. However, visitors should follow any restrictions announced by temple authorities and avoid photographing devotees or rituals in a way that disrupts worship.

When photographing the kabbas, allow them to move naturally and do not touch, pick up or deliberately disturb them for a photograph.

How Much Time Do You Need?

A typical visit can take around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the crowd, your interest in the architecture and whether you spend time observing the temple's religious traditions. During Navratri fairs, allow considerably more time because of increased visitor numbers.

Is Karni Mata Temple Suitable for Families?

Families can visit the temple, but parents should prepare children for the unusual presence of large numbers of rats. Some children may find the experience fascinating, while others may initially feel uncomfortable. Keeping children close and reminding them not to chase or touch the animals is important.

Is the Temple Suitable for Senior Citizens?

Senior citizens can visit Karni Mata Temple, although the amount of walking and standing may vary depending on crowd levels. A morning visit on a non-festival day is generally more comfortable. During Navratri fairs, larger crowds can make movement more challenging.

Nearby Places to Visit from Deshnok

Karni Mata Temple can be combined with several attractions in and around Bikaner. Junagarh Fort, Bhandasar Jain Temple, Devi Kund, Rampuria Havelis, Lalgarh Palace and the Bikaner Camel Festival are among the attractions highlighted by Rajasthan Tourism.

Travellers interested specifically in Karni Mata can also explore the Shree Karni Mata Panorama at Deshnok, which Rajasthan Tourism lists as a place associated with the life and legacy of Karni Mata.

Karni Mata Temple as Part of a Bikaner Itinerary

The temple works particularly well as a half-day addition to a Bikaner trip. Travellers can visit Deshnok in the morning and return to Bikaner for its forts, havelis, museums and markets. This allows the spiritual experience at Karni Mata Temple to complement the royal and architectural heritage of Bikaner.

For travellers exploring Rajasthan, Karni Mata Temple offers something genuinely different: a living place of worship, an unusual animal tradition, intricate marble architecture and a deep connection with the cultural history of the Bikaner region.

Important Tips Before Visiting

Plan your visit around the official opening hours and allow extra time if travelling during Navratri. Wear comfortable clothing, carry water during the hotter months and follow temple instructions. Most importantly, remember that the kabbas are sacred to devotees and should be treated with respect.

If you are visiting Deshnok specifically to experience the temple's spiritual traditions, arriving early can provide a calmer atmosphere. If your priority is experiencing the major Karni Mata celebrations, plan around the biannual Navratri fairs and be prepared for substantial crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata Temple located?+
Shri Manshapurna Karni Mata Temple is located in Deshnok, approximately 30 kilometres from Bikaner in Rajasthan.
Why is Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok famous?+
The temple is famous for its association with Karni Mata and for the thousands of sacred kabbas, or rats, that live freely within the temple complex. Its marble architecture and silver doors also make it an important attraction near Bikaner.
Who is Karni Mata?+
Karni Mata was a revered Hindu saint and warrior sage of the Charan tradition. Rajasthan Tourism describes her as a highly revered figure who lived in the fourteenth century, while other Rajasthan Tourism material places her life broadly between the fourteenth and sixteenth centuries.
Is Karni Mata considered a form of Goddess Durga?+
Karni Mata is traditionally revered by devotees as an incarnation or form of Goddess Durga. This is a matter of religious belief and forms an important part of her spiritual significance.
Why are rats considered sacred at Karni Mata Temple?+
According to the temple's traditional legend, Karni Mata asked Yama, the Hindu god of death, to restore her stepson Laxman. The legend says that Karni Mata's male children were subsequently reincarnated as rats, which are known as kabbas and are considered sacred within the temple tradition.
How many rats are there at Karni Mata Temple?+
Rajasthan Tourism describes the temple as being home to more than 25,000 rats, while another Rajasthan Tourism travel account refers to around 20,000. The exact number can vary, but the temple is renowned for its very large population of sacred kabbas.
What are the rats at Karni Mata Temple called?+
The sacred rats at Karni Mata Temple are commonly called kabbas. They are treated with reverence by devotees and are allowed to move freely throughout the temple complex.
Are the rats at Karni Mata Temple worshipped?+
The kabbas are treated as sacred within the religious tradition of the temple. Devotees offer them food and other offerings and consider their presence an important part of the spiritual experience at Karni Mata Temple.
Are the rats allowed to move freely inside the temple?+
Yes. The kabbas move freely throughout the temple premises, including around the feet of devotees and visitors. Their unrestricted presence is one of the defining features of the Karni Mata Temple experience.
What is special about the white rats at Karni Mata Temple?+
White rats are considered especially sacred in the temple's tradition. They are believed by devotees to represent Karni Mata and her sons, and seeing one is traditionally regarded as auspicious.
Is seeing a white rat at Karni Mata Temple considered lucky?+
Yes. Traditionally, devotees consider seeing one of the temple's rare white rats to be an auspicious experience. However, visitors should not disturb the kabbas or attempt to force them out for a sighting.
What happens if someone accidentally kills a rat at Karni Mata Temple?+
According to the temple's traditional custom, accidentally killing a sacred rat is considered a serious religious offence. Rajasthan Tourism notes a traditional practice in which the person responsible may be required to offer a gold rat as penance.
Can visitors feed the rats at Karni Mata Temple?+
Devotees traditionally offer food such as milk and sweets to the kabbas. Visitors who wish to make an offering should follow the temple's customary practices and instructions rather than feeding the rats randomly.
Can visitors eat food that has been touched by the sacred rats?+
Within the temple's religious tradition, food that has been nibbled by the kabbas may be regarded as sacred and prasada by devotees. Visitors should only consume such offerings if they are comfortable doing so and if they are offered according to the temple's customary practice.
What is the legend of Laxman associated with Karni Mata Temple?+
The traditional legend says that Laxman, Karni Mata's stepson, drowned while trying to drink water at Kapil Sarovar. Karni Mata prayed to Yama to restore him, and the legend says that Laxman and Karni Mata's male children were subsequently reincarnated as rats.
Who built Karni Mata Temple at Deshnok?+
The present temple structure was completed in the early twentieth century under Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner. The temple was subsequently enhanced, including its marble carvings and silver gates.
What is the architecture of Karni Mata Temple like?+
Karni Mata Temple features an elaborate marble structure with detailed carvings and striking silver doors. The silver panels depict legends and incidents associated with Karni Mata, while the temple's marble work adds to its distinctive appearance.
What is inside the main shrine of Karni Mata Temple?+
The inner sanctum houses an image of Karni Mata decorated with a crown and garlands. Rajasthan Tourism describes the principal image as approximately 75 centimetres tall and notes the presence of images of her sisters on either side.
What are the silver doors of Karni Mata Temple famous for?+
The temple's silver doors are known for their decorative panels depicting legends and incidents associated with Karni Mata. They form one of the most distinctive architectural features of the shrine.
What are the main rituals performed at Karni Mata Temple?+
Regular worship includes Mangla-ki-Aarti and bhog offerings performed by Charan priests. Devotees also make offerings to Karni Mata and the sacred kabbas.
What are Dwar-bhent and Kalash-bhent at Karni Mata Temple?+
Dwar-bhent and Kalash-bhent are traditional categories of offerings made by devotees. Rajasthan Tourism describes Dwar-bhent as offerings associated with priests and temple workers and Kalash-bhent as offerings used for temple maintenance.
What are the timings of Karni Mata Temple Deshnok?+
According to the current Rajasthan Tourism listing, Karni Mata Temple is open every day from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Is Karni Mata Temple open every day?+
Yes. Rajasthan Tourism currently lists the temple as open every day from 4:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Is there an entry fee for Karni Mata Temple?+
No. Rajasthan Tourism currently states that there is no entry fee for admission to Karni Mata Temple.
What is the best time to visit Karni Mata Temple?+
October to March is generally more comfortable for exploring Bikaner and Deshnok because Rajasthan's winter months are milder. For a quieter temple experience, an early morning visit on a non-festival day is a good choice.
When is the Karni Mata Fair held?+
The Karni Mata Fair is held twice a year during the two Navratri periods. One fair takes place around March-April during Chaitra Navratri and the other around September-October during Ashwin Navratri.
Is Karni Mata Temple crowded during Navratri?+
Yes. The biannual Karni Mata fairs attract thousands of devotees, making the temple considerably busier than on ordinary days. Visitors should allow additional time for travel, parking and darshan during the fairs.
How far is Karni Mata Temple from Bikaner?+
Karni Mata Temple is approximately 30 kilometres from Bikaner city.
How can I reach Karni Mata Temple from Bikaner?+
The temple can be reached from Bikaner by road using a private car, taxi or local transport. Deshnok is approximately 30 kilometres from Bikaner and is well known as one of the region's major religious attractions.
Can Karni Mata Temple be visited as a day trip from Bikaner?+
Yes. Its location about 30 kilometres from Bikaner makes Karni Mata Temple easy to include in a Bikaner sightseeing day. It can be combined with attractions such as Junagarh Fort, Rampuria Havelis and other heritage sites in Bikaner.
How long does it take to visit Karni Mata Temple?+
Most visitors can allow around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours for the temple, depending on crowd levels, darshan and how much time they spend observing the architecture and kabbas. Festival visits may require more time.
What should I wear to Karni Mata Temple?+
Visitors should wear modest and comfortable clothing appropriate for a Hindu place of worship. Comfortable clothing is especially useful because visitors may need to walk or stand during the visit.
Do I need to remove my footwear at Karni Mata Temple?+
Visitors should follow the temple's instructions regarding footwear and enter worship areas according to local temple etiquette. It is advisable to be prepared to remove footwear when required.
Can children visit Karni Mata Temple?+
Yes. Children can visit the temple, although parents should explain beforehand that thousands of sacred rats move freely around the complex. Children should be supervised and taught not to chase, touch or disturb the kabbas.
Is Karni Mata Temple suitable for senior citizens?+
Senior citizens can visit Karni Mata Temple, but the experience may involve walking and standing, particularly during busy periods. Visiting early on a non-festival day can provide a more comfortable experience.
Can I take photographs inside Karni Mata Temple?+
Visitors should follow the temple's current photography rules and any instructions from temple authorities. Photography should never interfere with worship, rituals or the privacy of devotees.
Can I touch the sacred rats at Karni Mata Temple?+
Visitors should not intentionally touch, pick up, chase or disturb the sacred kabbas. The respectful approach is to allow the rats to move freely and observe them without interference.
Is Karni Mata Temple safe for first-time visitors?+
Yes. First-time visitors can visit safely by following normal temple etiquette, moving carefully around the kabbas and respecting instructions from temple staff. People who are uncomfortable around rats should be mentally prepared for their very prominent presence.
Is Karni Mata Temple only a tourist attraction?+
No. Although the temple attracts visitors from across India and abroad because of its unusual rat tradition, it remains an active place of Hindu worship and pilgrimage dedicated to Karni Mata.
What is Karni Mata Temple also called?+
It is commonly known as Karni Mata Temple, Karni Mata Mandir or the Rats Temple. It is located in Deshnok near Bikaner, Rajasthan.
What are the best places to visit near Karni Mata Temple?+
Visitors can combine Karni Mata Temple with Bikaner's major attractions, including Junagarh Fort, Rampuria Havelis, Bhandasar Jain Temple, Devi Kund, Lalgarh Palace and museums in Bikaner.
Can Karni Mata Temple be included in a Rajasthan road trip?+
Yes. Karni Mata Temple is particularly easy to include in Rajasthan itineraries covering Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and other western Rajasthan destinations. Its proximity to Bikaner makes it a convenient spiritual stop during a road trip.
Is Karni Mata Temple worth visiting?+
Karni Mata Temple is worth visiting for travellers interested in Rajasthan's religious traditions, unusual cultural practices, temple architecture and the history of the Bikaner region. Its sacred kabbas make it unlike almost any other major temple experience in India.
What makes Karni Mata Temple different from other temples in Rajasthan?+
Its most distinctive feature is the large population of sacred kabbas that live freely inside the temple. Combined with its marble architecture, silver doors and traditions surrounding Karni Mata, this gives the Deshnok temple a unique character among Rajasthan's religious attractions.

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