The Karni Mata Temple, located in Deshnoke, about 30 kilometers from Bikaner, Rajasthan, is one of the most unique and revered temples in India. Dedicated to Karni Mata, an incarnation of Goddess Durga, this temple is famously known as the "Rat Temple" due to the thousands of rats that reside within its premises.

According to legend, Karni Mata, a mystic and revered deity of the 14th century, prayed to Yama, the god of death, to revive the son of a grieving storyteller. When Yama refused, she granted that all her followers would be reborn as rats before taking human birth again. This belief makes the temple a sacred site, where the rats, called "kabas," are worshipped and protected.

The temple, built in Mughal-style architecture, features a beautifully carved marble façade, silver doors, and intricate designs. Inside, the sanctum houses an idol of Karni Mata. The main attraction, however, is the thousands of black and a few rare white rats that freely roam the temple. Devotees believe that spotting a white rat is a sign of divine blessing. Offerings of milk and sweets are given to the rats, which are considered sacred and are never harmed.

Every year, thousands of pilgrims visit the temple, especially during the Karni Mata Fair held twice a year, during Navratri. The temple is a fascinating blend of spirituality, devotion, and folklore, attracting both devotees and curious travelers.

The Karni Mata Temple is not just a religious site but a symbol of deep faith and tradition, making it one of the most intriguing and extraordinary temples in India.