What exactly is the Rat Temple and why are there rats there?

Karni Mata Temple is a Hindu pilgrimage site where thousands of rats are considered sacred and are revered by devotees. According to local belief, the rats are reincarnations of the goddess's followers, and harming them is forbidden.

Is it safe to visit the rat temple if I'm uncomfortable around rodents?

The temple is safe but involves close proximity to rats in shared spaces. If you have a severe phobia or allergy, this portion may be distressing. The tour can focus more on the camel center if you prefer.

What will I learn at the Camel Breeding Center?

The National Research Center on Camel conducts ongoing research on camel health, breeding, and welfare in desert conditions. You'll see camels up close and gain insight into how they're adapted to the Thar Desert and their role in local culture.

What time does the tour depart and return?

You can choose a departure time up to 11:00 AM from Jodhpur. The full 12-hour tour returns by evening, giving you a complete day experience including travel time.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, though children should be comfortable with both rats and camels. The rat temple may be intense for very young children or those with animal phobias. The camel center is generally family-friendly.

What's included in the tour price?

The tour (from EUR 55) includes transportation by bus or minivan from Jodhpur, entry to both the rat temple and camel center, and a full day of guided exploration. Meals and personal expenses are typically separate.

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Visit Rat Temple & Camel Breeding Center with Bikaner Drop From Jodhpur.

(5)

Jodhpur, India

Cultural ToursDay Trips & ExcursionsBus & Minivan Tours

About this activity

Experience two of Bikaner's most distinctive attractions on a full-day excursion from Jodhpur: the revered Karni Mata Temple, home to thousands of sacred rats worshipped by Hindu pilgrims, and the National Research Center on Camel, where you'll learn about camel breeding and welfare in the Thar Desert. This immersive cultural and educational tour offers genuine insights into Rajasthani traditions and desert livestock management.

We will be visiting Bikaner which is a city in the north Indian state of Rajasthan, east of the border with Pakistan. It's surrounded by the Thar Desert. The city is known for the Nearby, the Karni Mata Temple (Rat Temple) is home to many rats considered sacred by Hindu devotees.

National Research Center on Camel Bikaner. If you wish to learn about camels, this is the best place for the same. The research center here constantly researches on animals to make their lives better. Viewing camels here is an amazing experience. We will be departing from Jodhpur at the start time you choose (up to 11) and we will be back in the end of the day.

Highlights

✓Walk through Karni Mata Temple among thousands of sacred rats considered divine by devotees
✓Meet and learn about camels at India's premier camel research facility
✓Explore Bikaner's desert setting and understand its role in Rajasthani heritage
✓Flexible departure times from Jodhpur (up to 11:00 AM)
✓Full-day itinerary with return by evening

Insider tips

★Wear closed-toe shoes at the rat temple to avoid stepping on the sacred rodents; remove them before entering inner sanctums
★Visit early in your trip to acclimate to Bikaner's extreme desert heat before other activities
★The camel center is most active in morning hours; interaction with animals is best before midday heat peaks

Good to know

•12-hour tour includes road travel; comfortable clothing and sunscreen essential for desert conditions
•Vegetarian meals typically offered; notify guides of dietary restrictions in advance
•Not recommended for those with severe rodent phobias; temple interiors can be crowded during peak visiting hours

Who it's for

Cultural explorers interested in Hindu pilgrimage sites and local spiritualityWildlife and agriculture enthusiasts curious about desert camel breedingDay-trip travelers from Jodhpur seeking authentic Rajasthani experiencesPhotography-focused visitors documenting unique religious and agricultural practices

Best time to visit

October to February offers comfortable desert temperatures for outdoor exploration. Visit the rat temple in early morning (before 10 AM) when crowds are thinner and the camel center is most active.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(5)

Emma F.

Apr 2026

our guide Tariq was nice enough, but the carvings on the main temple wall felt a bit rushed honestly, and would only really suit you if youre not fussy, 2 solid hours of history.

Will W.

Nov 2025

our guide Beatriz had so many stories and the hidden crypt the guide unlocked was the highlight. Mid-week so it was quiet so it wasnt too busy. Great if youre not super fit, and 2 solid hours of history, and 2 solid hours of history. Would book again no question.

Vik R.

Apr 2025

our guide Lucia had so many stories and the frescoes inside the chapel was the highlight, and first thing in the morning.

Olivia V.

Feb 2025

our guide Giulia really knew their stuff and the frescoes inside the chapel was the highlight. Went last tuesday so it wasnt too busy. Went last tuesday, and over easter break. Would book again no question.

Luke T.

Jan 2025

loved it — guide Luca top notch, worked great for a solo traveller like me, and covered 3 sites in one go, no joke

from€56.05€55.03/ person

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