Buddha is described as the ninth incarnation of Vishnu.  Some scholars are of the opinion that the inclusion of Buddha as an incarnation of Vishnu was due to the rising popularity of Buddhism and for the purpose of subordinating is to Hinduism.  Thus, some substituted in his place Balrama, the elder brother of Krishna.  In the Krishna temple both Balrama and Buddha are included in the depictions of incarnations.  Scholars point out that Buddhist and Hindu doctrines are basically one as Buddha never broke the traditional ideal of salvation through enlightenment.

Buddha is depicted in various forms in various places.  Generally he is shown with short kinky hair.  He bears a calm and graceful appearance.  The lobes of his ears are long.  He wears a yellow robe.  His hands are in boon-giving and protection-giving attitudes.  Buddha is shown either in standing or sitting pose.  In the Krishna temple of Patan, Buddha is depicted in a standing pose in a boon-giving and protecting attitude.

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