The temple, mostly known as the “temple of rats” internationally is also present in Deshnok, Rajasthan. Karni Mata has another temple dedicated to her in Udaipur that is located on a hilltop. As the legend says, the rat or the kabas are worshipped, protected and fed by their human devotees.
These kabas are spread all over the temple, hence it makes it possible for all them to have different offerings and food particles. The rats that are near the roof or on the ground get to feed on grains, fruits, vegetables, water or roti. The ones that are near the idol feed on the different offerings or prasad that has been offered by the devotees. These offerings are mostly ladoos, coconuts, fruits or sugar crystals.
The rats of this temple are accustomed to human touch and presence. They do not shy away from human interaction or touch, in fact it is said that these rats come and sit on the laps and shoulders of the devotees, they eat from the same plate of the charan kinsmen. It is believed that these rats get access to the most resources in the vicinity making them a well worshipped species at the temple.
There are fairs that are held at the temple twice in a year. Once during the Navratri in the months of October- November and the second fair is conducted during the month of March-April that is considered as the chaitra navratri. This temple has featured in many international documentaries because of the rat race. The white rats are considered very auspicious as they are considered to be the form of Karni Mata and her family.
Location: Deshnoke, Bikaner, Rajasthan.
Timings for Darshan: 4am- 10pm.
Nearby places to visit:
Gajner Lake
This manmade lake that once was part of the summer retreat for the royals but now it is part of a hotel site. The activity that can be done here is going boating in the solar charged boats. During the winters, the lake becomes home to many migratory birds like the most popular species being the Imperial Sand Grouse. The most stunning view of the lake is seen and experienced when the tall towers next to the lake give a reflection in the water.
The fort of the Hooded Cobra
As the name sounds, but is totally different from the name as there are no snakes in the vicinity. The fort here stands for the Rajput and Mughal paintings in the fort. This fort is home to several paintings that were made during the reign of the then Maharaja. Once a city that was known for its trade is now just an abandoned city and is considered as the backwater reservoir.
Rajasthan is rich in culture and tradition, when you set your foot on the grounds of Rajasthan, then you should definitely plan for Udaipur. If you are coming to celebrate your birthday or anniversary then you should definitely plan for Udaipur and plan your stays with “Goya Hills Villa”. This is a rented luxury 3 BHK villa that is equipped with all the recent technologies and also has rooms attached with a jacuzzi giving you privacy. This villa also has a swimming pool where you can have some fun with your family and friends. To know more about this villa, give us a call on 91 9024082177 or send us a mail with all your queries at info@goya-hils.com.
