Gargoyle from Patan Heritage Zone, Nepal

The word ‘gargoyle’, which finds its roots in the French word ‘gargouille’, can be found extensively in Hindu temple architecture. Used to aesthetically transport rain water for harvesting or for creating a beautiful environment near a temple pond, gargoyles can be found in both North and South Indian temples. In fact, you can also see them in the Hindu temples of Nepal.


I got to see them at the Patan heritage zone opposite the famous Krishna temple. Designed with Hindu gods, goddesses, real animals and mythological creatures, these beautiful aesthetic elements allow water to pour through it and thereby allowing devotees to wash their face, hands and feet before they make their way into the temples. Since this is drinking water, people also use this water for cooking and drinking.