Image number: 07NEP-1286

Behind the Lion Gate rises Taleju Temple. The three-roofed Taleju Temple was established in 1564, in a typical Newari architectural style and is elevated on platforms that form a pyramid-like structure. In the foreground, Hindu people line up to visit certain Durbar Square palace buildings which are only opened during Dasain Festival (or Durga Puja), which is Nepal's biggest annual festival, a 15-day family affair in Kathmandu Valley. Durga Puja celebrates the victory of the bloodthirsty goddess Durga over the forces of evil personified in the buffalo demon Mahisasura. Blue water bottles are lined up to serve thirsty festival crowds.