Kasthamandap

Kathmandu owes its very name to the Kasthamandap, in the southwestern corner of the square. Although its history is uncertain, local tradition says the three-roofed building was constructed around the 12th century from the wood of a single sal tree. At first it served as a community centre where visitors gathered before major ceremonies - a mandap is a 16-pillared pilgrim shelter.

Later it was converted to a temple dedicated to Gorakhnath, a 13th-century ascetic who was subsequently linked to the royal family.

The last disciples were kicked out in the 1960s.

A central wooden enclosure houses the image of the god, which is noteworthy since Gorakhnath is generally represented only by his footprints. In the corners of the building are four images of Ganesh. Hindu epics are illustrated around the corner platforms.

The squat, medieval-looking building is especially busy in the early morning hours when the valley's vegetable sellers set up shop and porters sit awaiting customers.