SPIRITUAL SOJOURN

The Karni Mata Temple, usually referred to as the ‘rat temple’, is another stop that deserves the visitors’ time. Located on the outskirts of the city in Deshnok, this temple has a large façade of stone and marble. The main deity here, Karni Mata, is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Rats, also referred to as kabbas, are revered here and it is common to see people feeding them. While these ‘royal rats’ are harmless, do take care not to hurt them. The locals consider the sighting of a white rat auspicious.

Another notable temple is the Bhandasar Jain Temple located at the southwest end of the walled city. It dates back to the 15th century and is dedicated to the fifth Jain tirthankar (teacher). Legend has it that a whopping 40,000 kilograms of ghee, instead of water, was used to construct this temple. The leaf paintings, frescoes, and intricate mirror work on the walls make it an interesting stop for architecture-lovers. Look up at the ceiling to see intricate images of several of the tirthankars painted amid beautiful floral motifs.