Have you ever heard of a temple where rats are considered sacred?
The Karni Mata Festival is one of the most unique celebrations in India. It takes place at the Karni Mata Temple, built by Maharajah Ganga Singh in the early 20th century. The temple is home to over 25,000 rats, affectionately known as “Kabbas.” Devotees believe that the offerings partially eaten by these rats are sacred and bring good luck. It is believed that Karni Mata was born in 1387AD equivalent to 20 September 1378. Legend has it that the rats were once soldiers who fled the battlefield. They were spared from death by Karni Mata and allowed to live as rats within the temple walls. Astonishingly, despite their large numbers, these rats never leave the temple.
The festival is held twice a year during Navratri, once in March or April and again in September or October. During this time, devotees gather to honor Karni Mata and seek her blessings. It is a celebration of faith, folklore, and the incredible relationship between humans and animals. The temple was built in the 15th century for Goddess Karni Mata, believed to be an incarnation of Maa Durga. It's known for its mix of old Rajput and Mughal-style architecture. When you visit, you can see the temple's detailed marble work and silver gates. People come here to see the rats, enjoy the temple's beauty, and learn about its history.
Significance of Karni Mata Festival
- The festival honors the life, miracles, and teachings of Karni Mata, a 14th-century mystic who is worshipped as a divine mother.
- Devotees believe that worshipping Karni Mata brings protection, prosperity, and spiritual blessings.
- The presence of the revered rats symbolizes the cycle of life, death, and rebirth, a core belief of the temple’s spiritual legacy.
- The Karni Mata Temple becomes a vibrant hub of spiritual energy during both Navratris, making it an unmissable experience for those seeking cultural immersion and divine blessings.
Karni Mata Festival 2025 Dates & Venue
The Karni Mata Festival 2025 will be celebrated twice at the famous Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok, Bikaner, Rajasthan. The first celebration will take place during Chaitra Navratri from March 30 to April 7, 2025, and the second will be held during Ashwin Navratri in September–October 2025. Both celebrations are hosted at the Karni Mata Temple, known for its sacred population of rats and deep spiritual significance.
History & Significance of Karni Mata Festival
Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok, Bikaner, has immense religious significance. Popular as the “temple of rats”, this temple is home to 20,000 rats who are worshipped and revered by the devotees. These rats are also known as 'kabbas.' There are a few white rats amidst the majority population of black rats. Sighting of white rats is considered very auspicious. It is believed that people who get to see white rats can look forward to transforming their dreams into reality. The Karni Mata Festival is celebrated with great pomp and show, immense devotion and reverence to Karni Mata. People from far and wide areas visit the temple during Navratri when the festival is held at the temple. They pay their respects to the deity and seek her blessings. Several folklore and legendary stories are associated with this temple. The significance of this temple is evident in the fact that it is visited by thousands of devotees every year, and the number is constantly increasing.
Major Attractions Of Karni Mata Fair 2025
1. A Joyous & Divine Affair
As this festival begins, the idol of Goddess Karni Mata is decorated with a golden crown, garlands, embellished clothes, and intricate jewellery. The gates of the temple are opened from 4:00 am for the devotees. After this, the priests perform all the ceremonial rituals and offer Bhog (Prasadam) to the deity. Due to its traditional and cultural significance, this fair attracts a considerable crowd from all across the country.
2. A Nice Blend of Religious & Cultural Programmes
This fair is organised by the local committee of the temple itself. Devotees especially come to the shrine and offer their prayers for fulfilling their wishes and leading a prosperous life. Besides the religious sentiments associated with the fair, one can also enjoy many cultural and religious programs.
3. Shopping for Trinkets and Pooja Material
The fair is also the best place to buy colourful trinkets to use as home decor or souvenirs. Several shops sell pooja samagri that devotees love to buy for their home temples. Some of the major things available in the shops are diyas, agarbatti, mata ki chunri, and more.
How To Reach Deshnok, Bikaner
Deshnok, Bikaner, is easily accessible by major modes of transportation. The roads are well-metalled and easy to access. Here are the travel details on how you can reach here by the following means of public transportation and attend the Karni Mata Mela in Bikaner.
- Nearest Major City. Jodhpur
- Nearest Major Airbase. Jodhpur Airport
- Nearest Railhead. Bikaner Junction
- Distance from Bikaner. 30.7 km via Bikaner
By Air
Deboard at Jodhpur Airport (JDH) situated at an approximate distance of 200-250 km. The airport is well routed with nearby cities and states with overall good flight connectivity. Once off your flight, take any local public transport available like a cab and travel to your desired location.
- Distance From Jodhpur Airport. 216 Km
By Train
If planning to travel via train then you can consider deboarding at Lalgarh Railway Station (LGH) or Bikaner Junction (BKN) located at an approximate distance of 32 and 30 km respectively. Both the stations are well connected from nearby cities and states. Here is how you can reach here from the following places.
- Distance From Bikaner Junction. 29.5 Km
- Distance From Lalgarh Railway Station. 32.7 Km
By Road
Depending upon your geographical location, that is to say, if you are residing in any nearby regions then planning a road trip to Bikaner can be a fairly good option. State-run buses/ private buses are easily available from nearby towns and cities at fairly affordable prices. You can also consider traveling via your own vehicle or hiring a private cab as well.
- Distance From Gwalior. 674 km via NH11
- Distance From Indore. 791 km via NH52
- Distance From Bhopal. 815 km via NH52
- Distance from Jaipur. 363.3 Km
- Distance from Jodhpur. 221.3 Km
- Distance from Kota. 439.5 Km
- Distance from Ajmer. 237.8 Km
- Distance from Jaisalmer. 343.6 Km
- Distance from Delhi. 451 Km
- Distance from Mumbai. 1219 Km
- Distance from Kolkata. 1894 Km
Conclusion
Visiting Bikaner and the Karni Mata Temple is a unique experience. It's not just about seeing rats in a temple but also about experiencing a different part of Indian culture and tradition. This place shows how people in India respect all forms of life, making it a really interesting spot for tourists.
With Adotrip, nothing is far!
Frequently Asked Questions About Karni Mata Festival 2025
Q1. When is Karni Mata Festival 2025 celebrated?
A1. Karni Mata Festival 2025 will be celebrated twice—first from March 30 to April 7, 2025 during Chaitra Navratri and again during Ashwin Navratri in September–October 2025. Both celebrations take place at the Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok, Bikaner, Rajasthan.
Q2. Where is the Karni Mata Festival 2025 held?
A2. The Karni Mata Festival 2025 is held at the Karni Mata Temple located in Deshnok, approximately 30 km from Bikaner city in Rajasthan, India.
Q3. What is the significance of Karni Mata Festival?
A3. The Karni Mata Festival honors Karni Mata, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga, who is worshipped for blessings, protection, and prosperity. The festival is known for its unique temple where rats are considered sacred and revered as reincarnated souls.
Q4. Why are rats worshipped during Karni Mata Festival?
A4. Rats, known as kabbas, are believed to be the reincarnated souls of Karni Mata's devotees. Feeding and respecting these rats during the festival is considered highly auspicious and spiritually rewarding.
Q5. How is Karni Mata Festival celebrated?
A5. The festival includes daily prayers, special aartis, offerings of sweets and grains to the rats, and vibrant fairs with cultural performances that attract thousands of devotees and tourists.
Q6. Can tourists visit the Karni Mata Festival 2025?
A6.The Karni Mata Festival 2025 is open to both domestic and international tourists. Visitors can experience the unique temple rituals, local culture, and spiritual atmosphere during the festival.
Q7. What are the exact dates for Chaitra Navratri Karni Mata Fair 2025?
A7. The Chaitra Navratri Karni Mata Fair 2025 will be held from March 30 to April 7, 2025, which is the major fair at the Deshnok temple.
Q8. What are the best ways to reach Karni Mata Temple in Deshnok?
A8. The nearest city is Bikaner, which is well-connected by road, rail, and air. From Bikaner, Deshnok is easily accessible by taxi or local buses. The nearest airport is in Jodhpur.
Q9. Is there an entry fee for visiting Karni Mata Temple during the festival?
A9. There is no entry fee for visiting the Karni Mata Temple during the festival or at any other time. However, donations are welcome and commonly made by devotees.
Q10. What should visitors keep in mind when attending Karni Mata Festival?
A10. Visitors should respect the temple customs, avoid harming the sacred rats, and dress modestly.
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