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Rajasthan Karni Mata Temple
Location | Deshnoke, Rajasthan, India |
Built by | |
Also known as | |
Primary deity | Karni Mata |
Important Festivals | |
Attraction |
Karni Mata Temple is located in Deshnoke which is 30 kilometers away from Bikaner, Rajasthan. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. The special aspect of this temple is that it dates back to the 20th century and is dedicated to mystic or sage who is considered to be an incarnation of goddess Durga Mata. This goddess is worshipped as official deity by the royal families of Bikaner and Jodhpur.
This temple is inhabited by legions of brown rats that scurry around the temple complex without any fear. These rats are believed to be repositories of spirits of dead charans who were the ancient bards.
History
As per history, this temple came to be known amongst the people in the 20th century. Karni Mata led a righteous life that was devoted to the uplifting and service of downtrodden and poor communities. People say that she possessed some super natural powers. The establishment of Deshnoke was laid by this sage and since then she is being worshipped by her followers Charans together with the rulers of Bikaner who treated her as their patron deity.
As per legends and some sources, the creator of Bikaner, Rao Bikaji was blessed by Karni Mata. The principal deity of this temple is Karni Mata while the rats present in this temple are the main tourist attraction.
Discovery of Temple
Discovered in 20th century, this temple was built by King Ganga Singh.
How To Reach
By Air
Jodhpur Airport is the nearby domestic airport located to Deshnoke. The tourist from different parts of the world can reach this destination by taking a flight from Indra Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. One can then hire a taxi, cab or a luxury bus coach from Jodhpur Airport to Deshnoke at economical prices.
By Rail
Deshnoke Railway station is the convenient railway station which facilitates easy access to different parts of India through some major trains. However many people get down at Jodhpur Railway Station and then hire a cab, taxi or luxury buses for Deshnoke. The Jodhpur Railway station is the main railway station which connects to different major destination of India.
By Road
The tourists can reach Bikaner by exploiting the convenient bus services which operate on regular basis. There is state as well as luxury coaches which operate to and fro from Jaipur, Bikaner, and other cities of India.
Important Shrines
The main shrine which attracts the tourists to this temple is the place where the idol of principal deity, Karni Mata is placed.
Significance Of The Temple
The architectural style of this temple is Mughal style which is impeccable. The temple is enhanced by Karni Jewelers, Kundanlal Verma based in Hyderabad. There is a silver gate which is to the entrance of the temple. This temple has marble carvings which were donated by Kundanlal Verma himself. It is said that during the Navratras, thousands of people visit this temple by walking on their foot.
The tourists get attracted to this temple due to its artistic style and design. It has exquisite structure which houses an image of Mata Karni.
Weather And Time To Visit
Deshnoke has an extreme climate all through the year. This weather remains very humid during the monsoon season as it rains moderately. Summers and monsoon seasons must be avoided as in summers it is very hot while in the monsoon it is very humid. Hence the ideal time to visit Karni Mata Temple is the winter season when the climate is pleasant enough to visit.
Accomodation
There are numerous accommodation facilities which you can find at Deshnoke near the temple. These accommodation facilities can be private or government owned and can range from luxury hotels to low budget hotels. These hotels offer comfortable stay with impeccable amenities at affordable prices.
Tips For Devotees
The devotees are advised to visit during the months of November, December, January and February as the climate is very pleasant. The temple houses number of rats hence the devotees must be careful while visiting the temple. The must be ready to walk on foot near the temple premises. It is also recommended to visit during 4 am to 10 pm as these are the visiting hours of the temple.
Rules And Rituals Of The Temple
- The devotees must not carry any meat product or alcohol inside the temple premises.
- The visiting hours of the temple are 4 am to 10 pm.
- The devotees must wear decent clothes while visiting the temple and must keep their mobiles on silent mode.
Photo Gallery