Patan - Mani Dhara

The fountain, Mani Dhara, is unquestionably the oldest structure in Durbar Square, possibly dating from the 10th c. or even Licchavi times. Situated at the northern end of the square it is impressive both in size and sunken depth. From the first gallery, already almost 2 m (61/2 ft) below street level, steps descend a further 2 m (61/2 ft) to where water emerges from three makara-shaped spouts. The goddess Lakshmi presides over the spring, attended by two mythical beings called barumes.

Mani Mandapa, the northernmost of the pair of mandapas flanking the entrance to the fountain, was renovated in 1701 in the reign of King Yoganarendra Malla. The stone throne with its guardian nagas and inscription also dates from that time.

Most unusually for so early a period, the mandapas are aligned not only with the fountain but also with the Vishwanath Mandir across the square. Such symmetry is generally not found prior to the mid 17th c. That the individual elements in the ensemble belong to different periods makes the arrangement all the more noteworthy.