Karni Mata Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in the town of Deshnok in the state of Rajasthan, India. It is also known as the Temple of Rats, as it is home to thousands of rats that are considered sacred by the local people.
The temple was built in the 14th century and is dedicated to Karni Mata, a Hindu sage who is believed to have miraculous powers. Legend has it that when Karni Mata’s stepson died, she asked Yama, the god of death, to bring him back to life. When Yama refused, Karni Mata resurrected her stepson and declared that her family and descendants would be reborn as rats.
The temple’s rat population is considered sacred and worshipped by the local people, who believe that seeing a white rat is especially auspicious. Visitors to the temple are required to remove their shoes and are forbidden from harming the rats or even accidentally stepping on them. Feeding the rats is encouraged and visitors can purchase prasad (food offering) to feed the rats.
The Karni Mata Temple is a unique and fascinating destination for travellers who are interested in Hindu mythology and culture. Despite the presence of thousands of rats, the temple is clean and well-maintained, and offers a memorable and unusual experience for visitors.
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