In Hindu art and literature, the mountain is described as the abode of Shiva, who is depicted as residing there along with his consort Parvati and their children, Ganesha and Kartikeya. In Hindu theology, Kailash came to be identified with Meru. Mount Meru is considered as a stairway to heaven, where the devas reside and the Vishnu Purana states that it lies in the center of the world surrounded by six mountain ranges like a lotus. Shiva is described as sitting in a lotus position, engaged in meditation within the confines of the mountain. Kailash and Manasarovar are mentioned in the Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata.