One of the largest Newari pagoda-style wooden temples in Nepal, the triple-tiered Indreshwar Temple dates back to 1294. It took nearly 90 years to complete, has been renovated several times over the centuries, and has survived numerous earthquakes including the devastating 2015 Gorkha earthquake. Its architectural strength derives—perhaps in part—from its northeastern cornerstone, which is said to be the cursed disembodiment of the divine Ahalya. Although Ahalya’s story varies widely from text to text, she is generally described as being the most beautiful woman in the world, created by the…
