The Temple of Rats, also known as Karni Mata Temple, is a unique and intriguing Hindu temple located in Deshnoke, near Bikaner in the Indian state of Rajasthan. This temple is dedicated to Karni Mata, an incarnation of the goddess Durga, and is renowned for its resident population of thousands of rats that are worshipped as sacred beings.

The temple dates back several centuries and holds a deep religious significance for the locals. According to legend, Karni Mata, the revered mystic and goddess, granted a boon to her stepson, promising that all members of his family would be reincarnated as rats. These rats are believed to be the descendants of Karni Mata’s family and are considered holy. Spotting a white rat, which is rare, is considered highly auspicious and brings good fortune.

Devotees from far and wide visit the Karni Mata Temple to offer their prayers and seek blessings. The rats are considered to be the protectors of the temple and are believed to bring prosperity and good luck. The temple complex is designed in a traditional Rajasthani style with intricately carved marble and silver decorations.

Visitors to the temple are required to remove their shoes before entering, as a sign of respect. Feeding the rats is considered an act of devotion, and bowls of milk and grains are left out for them. Devotees also offer prayers and perform rituals to seek the blessings of Karni Mata.

The rats are treated with great reverence and care. Special arrangements are made to ensure their well-being, including providing them with food, water, and shelter. It is believed that if any rat in the temple dies, it must be replaced with a rat made of solid silver or gold.

The Karni Mata Temple attracts not only devotees but also curious tourists who are fascinated by the unique spectacle of thousands of rats freely roaming around the temple premises. Despite the large rat population, the temple is kept clean and well-maintained by the temple authorities and devotees.

The temple is particularly crowded during festivals, such as Navratri and Diwali, when devotees come in large numbers to seek the blessings of Karni Mata. These occasions are marked by special prayers, devotional music, and cultural performances.

Visiting the Temple of Rats offers a truly distinctive and memorable experience. It provides an insight into the religious beliefs and practices of the region and showcases the deep reverence for animals in Hindu culture. The temple’s spiritual ambiance, combined with the presence of the rats, creates an atmosphere that is both fascinating and surreal.

While the Temple of Rats may not be for everyone, it continues to be a significant religious site and a testament to the unique traditions and customs of Rajasthan. It is a place where devotion, faith, and the harmonious coexistence of humans and animals come together, leaving visitors with a lasting impression of this extraordinary place.