Lalita Ghat is one of the main ghats on the Ganges River in Varanasi. The ghat is named after Hindu Goddess Lalita and was built in early 19th century by King of Nepal, Rana Bahadur Shah. It houses Nepal Mandir, a Shiva temple built in Nepal style with wood, terracotta and stone. The wood used for the temple construction is termite proof and,tamarind trees and peepal trees surround the temple. The temple has erotic sculptures similar to that of the ones in Khajuraho and thus, the temple is also called as mini-Khajuraho. Lalita palace near the ghat is a two-tier structure. There are a few shrines of 18th century and images belonging to 12th century. An image of River Ganges as a goddess can be found here. The goddess is seen riding on a crocodile. The river goddess’ image submerges into the river every year during the floods.