Why visit Changunarayan?

• A traditional, authentic Village
• An ancient pilgrimage site
• Scenic and tranquil
• The oldest temple of the country
• Beautiful view of the sunset
• Local site interpreters
• Only 40 minutes drive from Kathmandu
• Only 6 km from Bhaktapur
• The place that gives you a lifetime of experience

What to see in Changunarayan?

Temple of Changunarayan: the masterpiece of a temple in traditional style, founded almost 1700 years ago by Queen Bhavanlaxmi following a great fire which destroyed the earlier temple. Enjoy the excellent carvings on doors, struts and gold plated copper roof of the upper tier. Inside is an image of Lord Narayan, the protector among the trinity of the Hindus. His carrier, the garuda, kneeling in obeisance in front, is believed to have been carved by the artist as a resemblance of King Manadeva.

Kanti Bhairab: Guarding the west entrance of the courtyard, Kanti Vairab commands the first respects of a pilgrim.

Kileswor Temple: The two-tiered temple dedicated to Lord Mahadeva in the form of a peg has been recently constructed.

Garuda Narayan: The 1300-year-old Sridahara Narayan image of Lord Krishna is in the courtyard on the left.

Nateswor: The dancing form of Lord Shiva belonging to the Malla period is located in front of the North Gate.

Mahavisnu: The domical temple of Maha Vishnu in the northeast of the courtyard houses a very rare image which is about 400 years old.

The Elephant: Long ago, when the craftsmen were carving a stone into an elephant for the southern gate, it could not be done in a day. The next day, it is believed that it had moved tp its present location. As the carving resumed, it bled. It remained untouched and has attained a god image status.

Rakteswori Chinnamasta: The rectangular temple with five finials, has images of the Seven Mother goddesses with Shiva-Parvati and Ganesh which are inside the temple.

Baikuntha Vishnu / Visworup: The temple Baikuntha Vishnu to the south of the main temple is long since gone but the image can be seen in the east face of the brick vault. On the west face is the image of Visworup, the Narayan in a world encompassing form. 

Laxmi Narayan Temple: The single storeyed temple was built 300 years ago. On the plinth on the north side one can see Vishnu Vikranta, a dwarf manifestation of Narayan treading on all the three worlds.

How to get to Changunarayan
By Taxi: If you are going directly from Kathmandu, a reasonable rate for you to pay will be Rs.2000.00 (both ways), and if it is from Bhaktapur (near the bus stand of Bhaktapur) it will be Rs. 1000.00 (both ways).

By Bus: You can get a bus to Bhaktapur from Bagh Bazar bus stand which will cost you about Rs. 15.00/person. From Changu Dobato Bus Stop at Bhaktapur, buses to Changunarayan are available for about Rs.10.00/person.

When to Visit Changunarayan
All day, any day, as soon as you are ready.

Please use the services of a government registered agency for a hassle-free and fun holiday in Nepal.