Itum Bahal

Built in the 11th century, the Itum Bahal, otherwise known as the Keshavacandra Mahavihara is among the oldest Buddhist temples in Kathmandu Valley. The wood carvings in the temple depict the temptation of Buddha by demons and even Mara's seductive daughter in an effort to distract him during his meditation.

An interesting legend about the courtyard of Itum Bahal goes that Guru Mapa, a man-eating creature, once resided there. Due to his appetite, large numbers of little children vanished. In order to stop this, the people in the area begged him to stop and go away, in return they promised an annual sacrifice of a buffalo. This practice is still kept to this day.