Kodamdesar Bhairav Temple

Kodamdesar Bhairav Temple is an ancient open-air Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. Located in Kodamdesar village approximately 24-26 kilometers from Bikaner city, this unique temple was established by Rao Bika Ji, founder of Bikaner, around 1465-1472 AD. The temple features no roof, walls, or doors, with only a large deity idol placed on a white marble platform under the open sky.

Visitors encounter a distinctive open-air temple structure with no conventional building elements such as roof, rooms, or doors. The central feature is a large idol of Lord Bhairav positioned on a white marble floor beneath the open sky. Two tridents flank the deity. A pond is located behind the temple. Dogs are commonly present in the temple complex, considered sacred to Lord Bhairav. Devotees offer prasad into the deity's wide-open mouth, which is then distributed after rituals.

The temple was built by Rao Bika Ji, founder and ruler of Bikaner (1472-1504 AD), during the first three years after he left Jodhpur in 1465 AD to establish Bikaner State. This site was initially chosen as the location to lay the foundation of Bikaner before being shifted to its present location. The temple is linked to the tragic story of Kodamde from Vikram Samvat 1465, representing sacrifice and devotion.

The temple holds significant religious importance for Hindus, particularly devotees of Lord Bhairav. Newly-wed couples visit to seek blessings, and newborn babies are brought here for Mundan (first hair-shaving ceremony). The annual Bhadrapad Fair is a notable cultural event. The presence of dogs in the temple complex reflects their sacred association with Lord Bhairav.