Changu Narayan Temple | Bhaktapur

Changu Narayan Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in the Kathmandu Valley, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site situated on a high ridge north of Bhaktapur.

Visual Characteristics

The temple is a two-tiered pagoda structure built in the traditional Newari style. It is characterized by exceptionally intricate wood carvings on its struts, embossed copper plate doors, and a collection of stone sculptures dating from the 4th to the 9th centuries. The courtyard is filled with historic pillars and statues, including a famous 5th-century stone inscription.

Location & Access Logistics

Located in Changunarayan 44600, Nepal, approximately 6km north of Bhaktapur.

Transit: Local buses run from Bhaktapur’s northern bus park. Many visitors hike the scenic trail from Nagarkot (approx. 3–4 hours) to the temple.

Access: Accessible via a steep stone-paved path through Changu village.

Admission: International tourists must pay a city entrance fee at the village gate.

Hours: Daily 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM.

Historical Origin

The temple’s origins date back to the 4th century during the Lichhavi dynasty. The stone pillar erected by King Manadeva in 464 AD is the oldest recorded inscription found in Nepal. While the current structure was rebuilt in 1702 following a fire, it retains carvings and statues that are over 1,500 years old.

Key Highlights & Activities

Vishnu Vishwarup Sculpture: A 7th-century stone carving depicting Vishnu in his universal form, considered a masterpiece of Nepalese art.

Garuda Statue: A 5th-century kneeling figure of the mythical bird-man, the mount of Vishnu, positioned directly in front of the main entrance.

Narsimha and Vikrantha: Ancient stone reliefs depicting Vishnu's incarnations as the man-lion and the dwarf.

Changu Museum: A private museum in the village displaying ancient coins, tools, and ethnographic artifacts.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The village surrounding the temple features several artisan workshops specializing in thangka painting and wood carving. Small guesthouses and local eateries are available along the main path. The temple courtyard consists of stone flagging and is moderately accessible, though the approach involves stairs.

Best Time to Visit

Morning: For ritual ceremonies and clear views of the valley.

Haribodhini Ekadashi: A major festival in October/November celebrating Vishnu’s awakening from his four-month slumber.

Facts & Legends

A technical oddity is the architectural resilience of the stone carvings; despite the 2015 earthquake, many of the oldest statues remained largely intact. Legend states that the temple was built on the spot where Lord Vishnu was accidentally beheaded by a Brahmin and a cowherd while he was trapped in a tree as a result of a curse.

Nearby Landmarks

Bhaktapur Durbar Square – 6km South

Nagarkot – 12km East (by road)

Sankhu Village – 5km North

Manohara River – Directly below the ridge