In Indic mythology, a makara is a mythical crocodile-like creature that lives in rivers and lakes and is generally associated with water. In Himalayan art, certain deities are depicted as riding makaras. More commonly, makaras appear as decorative motifs on either side of gateways, or around the torana. In Newar art of the Kathmandu Valley they represent a rain cloud and appear as aquatic creatures with teeth and a curling elephant trunk-like snout.