Karni Mata Temple Udaipur: History & Famous Mouse Temple

Introduction: Why is Karni Mata Temple Udaipur Famous?
Karni Mata Temple Udaipur is a revered spiritual site that attracts thousands of devotees and tourists annually. Nestled on Machla Magra Hill, this sacred temple offers breathtaking views of Udaipur city and is dedicated to Karni Mata, a Hindu sage worshiped as an incarnation of Goddess Durga.
One of the temple’s unique features is the presence of thousands of rats, earning it the title of Mouse Temple in Rajasthan. These sacred rodents, known as kabas, are believed to be the reincarnations of Karni Mata’s followers. Devotees consider them auspicious and offer food as a sign of devotion.
Visitors can take a thrilling ropeway ride or trek uphill for a scenic journey to reach the Udaipur Karni Mata Mandir. Whether for spiritual blessings or mesmerizing city views, Karni Mata Udaipur remains a must-visit destination.
Where is Karni Mata Temple in Udaipur Located?
The Udaipur Mata Mandir, also known as Karni Mata Mandir Udaipur, is perched atop Machla Magra Hill, offering a panoramic view of Lake Pichola, Doodh Talai, and the entire city. This sacred temple is easily accessible from the Doodh Talai area, which is a popular tourist spot in Udaipur.
Visitors can reach the Udaipur Karni Mata Mandir via two main routes. One option is the ropeway ride, which provides a stunning aerial view of Udaipur’s landscape. Alternatively, a short trek through a scenic forested path allows devotees and adventure lovers to enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Situated near the Udaipur City Palace, this temple is a must-visit for those seeking spiritual peace and breathtaking views. Whether you take the ropeway or hike up, the journey to Karni Mata Mandir Udaipur is an unforgettable experience.
What is the History of Karni Mata Mandir?
The Karni Mata Mandir history dates back to the 15th century, when Karni Mata, a revered Hindu saint and an incarnation of Goddess Durga, blessed Udaipur. She played a significant role in the foundation of many Rajput kingdoms, including Bikaner and Jodhpur. It is believed that Maharana Karan Singh built the Karni Mata Temple on Machla Magra Hill to seek divine blessings for Udaipur’s prosperity.
Karni Mata Story: The Legend of the Mouse Temple
According to Karni Mata story, one of her devotees’ children died, and she prayed to Yama, the god of death, to restore his life. Yama refused, but Karni Mata, with her divine power, decreed that all her followers would be reborn as rats before their next human birth. This is why thousands of rats, known as kabas, roam freely in the temple, and spotting a white mouse is considered highly auspicious.
This Mouse Temple has since become a major pilgrimage site, attracting visitors who offer food to the sacred rats. The temple stands as a symbol of faith, devotion, and miraculous legends, making it one of the most unique spiritual sites in Rajasthan.
Why is Karni Mata Temple Called the “Mouse Temple”?

The Karni Mata Temple is famously known as the Mouse Temple in Rajasthan due to the presence of thousands of sacred rats that freely roam within its premises. These rats, called kabas, are considered holy and are believed to be the reincarnated followers of Karni Mata Udaipur, a revered Hindu saint.
The Legend Behind the Mouse Temple
As per the Karni Mata story, one of her devotee’s sons passed away, and she pleaded with Yama, the god of death, to revive him. Yama denied her request, but Karni Mata, using her divine powers, granted that all her followers would be reincarnated as rats before taking their next human birth. Since then, the temple has been home to thousands of these sacred rodents.
Devotees consider feeding the mice an act of blessing and good fortune. Among them, spotting a white mouse is exceptionally lucky, as it is believed to be the reincarnation of Karni Mata herself.
This Mouse Temple attracts visitors from around the world who come to witness this unique tradition, making Karni Mata Udaipur one of the most extraordinary temples in India.
What are the Religious Beliefs Associated with Udaipur Mata Mandir?

The Udaipur Mata Mandir, also known as Karni Mata Temple Udaipur, holds deep religious significance among devotees. It is dedicated to Karni Mata, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga, who blessed Rajput rulers and played a key role in establishing many kingdoms in Rajasthan.
According to legend, Karni Mata possessed divine powers and performed miracles, leading many to worship her as a deity. The Karni Mata Mandir Udaipur is considered a sacred place where devotees seek blessings for health, prosperity, and protection from negative energies.
One of the most unique beliefs is the presence of sacred rats in the temple, which devotees consider reincarnations of Karni Mata’s followers. Feeding these rats is believed to bring good fortune, and spotting a white mouse is considered an auspicious sign.
For pilgrims and spiritual seekers, Karni Mata Temple Udaipur remains a powerful center of faith and devotion.
How to Reach Karni Mata Temple Udaipur?
Reaching Karni Mata Temple Udaipur is easy, as it is located on Machla Magra Hill, near Doodh Talai Lake. Visitors have two main options to reach the temple:
- By Ropeway – The most scenic way to reach Karni Mata Udaipur is by taking the Udaipur Ropeway from Doodh Talai. This short yet exciting ride offers breathtaking aerial views of Lake Pichola and the City Palace.
- By Trekking – A 10-15 minute uphill trek leads to Udaipur Karni Mata Mandir. The well-paved trail passes through lush greenery, making it a peaceful experience for nature lovers.
For those traveling by public transport, Karni Mata Temple Udaipur is just 4 km from Udaipur City Railway Station and 24 km from the airport. Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses are available for easy access to the temple.
What to Expect When Visiting Karni Mata Mandir?

Visiting Karni Mata Temple Udaipur is a unique spiritual and cultural experience. Perched atop Machla Magra Hill, the temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of Udaipur’s lakes, palaces, and Aravalli hills. Devotees and tourists visit this sacred site to seek blessings from Karni Mata, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Karni Mata Mandir Udaipur is the presence of thousands of sacred rats, making it a well-known Mouse Temple in Rajasthan. These rats, called kabas, freely roam inside the temple and are considered holy. Devotees believe that feeding them brings good luck and prosperity, and spotting a white mouse is considered extremely auspicious.
The temple is accessible via a ropeway ride from Doodh Talai or a scenic trekking path. Visitors can expect a peaceful yet mystical atmosphere, with devotees offering prayers, lighting diyas, and chanting hymns.
Photography is allowed, but visitors should respect temple traditions, wear appropriate clothing, and be mindful of the sacred rats. Whether for religious devotion or an offbeat cultural experience, Karni Mata Temple Udaipur offers a memorable visit.
Exploring Nearby Attractions of Karni Mata Temple

After visiting Karni Mata Temple Udaipur, tourists can explore several breathtaking attractions nearby. One of the most popular spots is Doodh Talai Lake, located at the base of Udaipur Mata Mandir. This serene lake offers picturesque views and is perfect for a relaxing stroll.
For those interested in panoramic cityscapes, Moti Magri Hill is another must-visit destination. It features a grand statue of Maharana Pratap and provides stunning views of Fateh Sagar Lake.
Just a short distance from Karni Mata Udaipur, visitors can explore Lake Pichola, famous for its boat rides and the iconic Lake Palace. The City Palace Udaipur, one of Rajasthan’s largest palaces, is also nearby, offering a glimpse into royal history.
These attractions, along with the spiritual ambiance of Karni Mata Temple Udaipur, make for a memorable sightseeing experience in the City of Lakes.
Conclusion
Karni Mata Temple Udaipur is not just a place of worship but a symbol of faith, history, and unique traditions. Nestled atop Machla Magra Hill, the temple offers a mesmerizing blend of spiritual significance and breathtaking city views. Its association with sacred rats, also known as kabas, has made it famous as the Mouse Temple in Rajasthan, attracting devotees and curious travelers alike.
Whether you’re seeking blessings, interested in legends of Karni Mata history, or simply wish to admire Udaipur from a panoramic viewpoint, this temple is an essential stop in your Udaipur itinerary for 2 days. For those exploring Udaipur, reliable transportation is essential to visit iconic sites like City Palace, Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, and more. Sanwariya Cabs offers taxi service in Udaipur, making it convenient for visitors to travel comfortably across the city. Their Udaipur sightseeing taxi services ensure a hassle-free experience, allowing travelers to explore the city’s cultural and historical gems with ease.