Karni Mata temple at Deshnoke
Karni Mata was a woman sage from the Charan community who lived in the 14th and 15th centuries and is revered as a form of the goddess Durga. She is the patron deity of the rulers of Bikaner. Her temple at Deshnoke was rebuilt in its present form in the early 20th century by Maharaja Ganga Singh, with silver doors and marble carving.
The temple is famous for its rats, known as kabbas, believed to be reincarnations of the saint's followers. Thousands live in the temple and are fed by priests and pilgrims with milk and grain. Seeing a rare white rat is considered especially lucky. Visitors remove shoes before entering.
This is a working temple and a remarkable example of living faith, but it is not for everyone. We explain it honestly before the drive, and some guests choose to see only the carved facade. Others find it the most memorable stop in Bikaner. Thick socks make the barefoot visit easier.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
Why are there rats in the Karni Mata temple
Devotees believe the rats are the reincarnated followers of Karni Mata, a revered woman saint. They are protected and fed in the temple. Spotting a white rat is considered a blessing. The temple is an active place of worship. Karni Mata, a sage of the Charan community, is the patron deity of the Bikaner rulers, and the temple was rebuilt by Maharaja Ganga Singh.
Do you have to go barefoot at the Karni Mata temple
Yes. Shoes must be removed before entering, as at all Hindu temples. Many visitors wear thick socks. If you prefer not to go in, you can see the silver doors and carved facade from the entrance. We explain the temple honestly before the drive, so you can decide in advance. The rats, known as kabbas, move freely across the floor.
How far is Karni Mata temple from Bikaner
About 30 km south, around 45 minutes by car on the road towards Jodhpur. It fits easily on the drive between Bikaner and Jodhpur, or as a morning trip from the city. The temple at Deshnoke is a short visit, and we explain what to expect before you go. Shoes come off at the door, so thick socks make the barefoot visit easier.
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