Karni Mata Temple, Deshnok,Rajasthan

Local legend holds that Karni Mata miraculously intervened to restore life to a child and that, after a dispute with Yama (the god of death), she decreed that certain members of her devotee community would be reincarnated as rats until they were reborn as humans. Because of this, the temple's rats are considered sacred and are fed, protected, and respected as manifestations of devotees and ancestors.

• Karni Mata main sanctum — the idol and inner shrine
• The temple's thousands of sacred rats freely moving within the complex
• Intricately carved marble courtyard and reflective surfaces
• Silver doors and metalwork commissioned by regional rulers
• Local Deshnok market and stalls selling snacks and souvenirs

• Large colony of free-roaming 'sacred' rats that are fed and protected by the temple
• Notable marble and silver architectural elements and carved stonework
• Rituals where rats are offered kheer (sweet rice pudding) and other offerings
• Close-up, ground-level visitor experience where rats may run over walkways and near feet

• Darshan (devotional viewing) of Karni Mata and participation in temple rituals
• Observe and photograph the sacred rats (follow temple guidelines and be respectful)
• Offerings of sweets or grains as permitted by temple authorities
• Walk the temple courtyard and nearby lanes to experience local market life
• Listen to local storytellers/guides about Karni Mata’s life and the temple’s history

• Navratri — a peak pilgrimage period with special ceremonies and large crowds
• Karni Mata Jayanti and special pujas dedicated to the deity
• Major Hindu festivals such as Diwali when the temple holds special aartis

October–March (cooler weather and comfortable sightseeing; festival season, including Navratri, attracts many pilgrims)

Hot summers (April–June, often >40°C), monsoon (July–September) with occasional showers, and cool winters (November–February). Plan for heat in summer and carry water.

There is no formal entry fee; donations are welcome. Typical hours are early morning to evening with a mid-day break (commonly around ~5:00 AM–12:00 PM and ~4:00 PM–9:00 PM), but timings can vary—confirm locally before visiting.

Deshnok is located about 30 km southeast of Bikaner. Nearest rail/road hub: Bikaner Junction. Nearest airports: Bikaner (small regional), or larger airports at Jodhpur/Jaipur (longer transfer). Road access by taxi or local bus is straightforward from Bikaner. Note: narrow, crowded lanes, stone steps, and loose animals make wheelchair access limited.

1–3 hours for the temple visit itself; half- to full-day if combined with Bikaner sightseeing.

Dress modestly for a place of worship. Remove footwear before entering the inner complex — wear slip-on shoes for convenience. Carry a hat, sunscreen and water in hot months. Avoid bringing open food packages inside the temple; be mindful of hygiene when near the rats.

Try regional specialties like Bikaneri bhujia, kachori, and dal-baati-churma available in Deshnok/Bikaner. Souvenirs include packaged Bikaneri snacks (bhujia), textiles, small religious icons, and local handicrafts.