Bhaktapur - Catur Varna Mahavihara

The Catur Varna Mahavihara or Tadhunchen Bahal is situated close to Durbar Square and separated from it only by a row of old dharamsalas (now occupied by souvenir shops). This old monastery is one of the few Buddhist monuments in Bhaktapur. First established in the reign of King Raya Malla (1482-1505), the complex of buildings seen today dates from the time of King Jagat Prakasha Malla (1644-73). The Kumari cult was introduced here from Kathmandu by King Ranajita Malla (1722-68).

Note in particular the unusual wood-carvings in the courtyard, graphically illustrating the torments of the damned.