Bikaner may be known for its camel safaris and impressive fort in the state of Rajasthan, but it is its unique temple in the town of Deshnok that attracted us to the area. The Karni Mata Rat Temple just may be the freakiest attraction we’ve ever been to.
The Karni Mata Temple just may be one of India’s strangest attractions.
What is the Karni Mata Rat Temple?
Karni Mata houses thousands of rats. Yes rats.
And pilgrims make regular trips to Deshnok to worship these long-tailed rodents.
The Story of Karni Mata goes like this
As our guide explained to us…
The Goddess Karna Mata was a part of the Charin clan in her lifetime. She lived to be 150 years old and remained young and beautiful. After her death, she became a rat.
The followers of the Charin believe that once they die, they too will be reincarnated as a rat and subsequently, when a rat dies, it will be reincarnated as a human again.
And so the cycle continues.
Rat Temple of India
These holy rodents are revered by their followers as the Charin People believe that the rats of the Karni Mata Temple are their ancestors.
The Rat Temple yet another fascinating stop in India.
Apparently even during the worst of the plague, the town of Deshnok was not affected.
Worshippers make pilgrimages to the Karni Mata Rat Temple not only to worship the rats, but to also heal their ailments.
An interesting fact that everyone told us was that these rats never leave the temple even though they are free to do so. I say, why leave when you are given a steady stream of tasty milk and treats.
The White Rat of Karni Mata Temple
It is considered lucky to spot a white rat and we managed to see one scamper around the grounds.
I understand why it is so difficult to spot one though, the minute it comes out of hiding, hoards of tourists and pilgrims chase after it to catch a glimpse.
It isn’t long before it runs back into a hole in the wall.
We pondered the thought that this poor rat probably says to its buddies. “Why don’t I ever get a chance to eat in peace like the rest of you? Every time I come out for a bite, I am chased by these silly humans.”
It is also considered auspicious to have rats scamper over your toes.
Well, Dave and I must have some good fortune in our cards because they scampered over to us more times than I would like to admit.
Maybe it was our stinky feet from not showering for days that attracted the rats so often. Or maybe we are just the chosen ones.
Did I tell you that you have to enter the rat temple barefoot?
Be prepared to walk through a lot of rat poo.
Rat food, dirt and grime. And I hope you don’t have a rat phobia, you will have a rat run over your toes.
But you know what? I wouldn’t miss this attraction for the world.
The Karni Mata Rat Temple was one of the most unique experiences we’ve ever had. If you’re going to visit a temple, it might as well be full of rats.
Karni Mata Information
- Deshnok is located 30 kn from Bikaner and 6km from Udaipur
- Public Buses leave regularly from Bikaner and Udaipur for 20 Rs
- Vijays Guest House AKA The Camelman offers trips for 800 Rs. Shared with 4 people it is only 200 RS each.
- Provides good guide and a stop at the camel farm on the way.
- You can book day tours from Udaipur or Bikaner in Rajasthan to Karni Mata Rat Temple.
Watch our video to see what fun we had at the Rat Temple of India
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