Vishwanath Temple during the evening

Built in 1627 by King Narasimha of Lalitpur (r. 1620-61), this temple honors the god Shiva; its name refers to Shiva as "Lord of All" and is variously spelled "Vishwanath" or "Vishvanath". In keeping with the erotic imagery common to Shiva temples in India, the roof supports are decorated with erotic carvings. A stone linga is also enshrined inside the temple. Twin stone elephants guard the east entrance. According to Michael Hutt, a local legend holds that the king will not enter heaven until the stone elephants descend from the temple and drink from the Mani Dhara water fountain.