Kathmandu - Hanuman Dhoka

Between the Degutale Temple and the Taleju Mandir the main façade of the palace turns at right angles, creating a forecourt called Hanuman Dhoka after the palace deity (the Mallas chose Hanuman the monkey god on account of his prodigious strength). In 1672, during Pratapa Malla's reign, an image of Hanuman was placed in front of the portal to keep away evil spirits and disease. The figure still looks threatening though centuries of anointing with mustard oil and cinnebar (vermilion) have eroded its features.