Changu Narayan Temple - The Essence of Kathmandu Valley
Changu Narayan Temple, the oldest temple in Kathmandu valley came in existence in 4th century. The temple is adorned by some of the best specimen of stone, wood, and metal craft in the valley. The temple stands as the epitome of culture, religion, history and faith of the Kathmandu valley. 
Fast Facts
| Location |
22 km from Kathmandu |
| Importance |
Oldest temple in Kathmandu valley |
| Built in |
4th century A.D. |
| Devoted to |
Hindu Lord Shiva |
| Major Attraction |
Vishnu image with ten heads and ten arms |
Historical Importance
- It is the oldest temple in Kathmandu valley.
- A Vishnu idol with ten heads and ten arms is a fine example of stone carving from the 5th century.
- The temple is of great importance due to its idols and shrines having rich architectural beauty.
Places to be Seen 
- Garuda Narayana Temple
- Shrine of King Bhupalendra Malla and his mother
- Krishna Shrine
- Nateshvara Shrine
- Sculpture of Sri Mahadev
- Sculpture of Garuda
- Shrine of Somalingeshvara
- Sculptures: Vishnu, Durga Avalokitesvara and Garuda Ganesh
- Ganesh Shrine
- Bhagvati Temple
- Vishnu Vikranta
- Vishnu Vishvarupa
- Lakshmi Temple Shiva Temple
- Stone Column
Legendary places in the temple
Garuda Idol
Inside the Changunarayan temple is a esteemed figure of Garuda. The statue is offered sweets by the devotees every year on Nag Panchami. This is done in remembrance of the epic struggle with the great snake Taksaka. The drops of moisture, believed to be effective against diseases such as leprosy and ulcers, are collected by the priests.
King Bhupendra Malla Statues
Statues of King Bhupalendra Malla of Kathmandu and his mother can also be seen in a shrine. Bloody fighting characterised their politics during the 17th century but both were generous when it came to revering the gods.
Vishnu Sculpture
To the north of the temple is a sculpture of Lord Vishnu seated on Garuda (Garudasana Vishnu). This image appears on the Nepalese 10 rupee note. Vishnu sculpture dates back to 9th century.
Important Vishnu Sculptures
Vishwaroop
Vishwaroop sculpture, dating back to 8th century A.D., presents Lord Vishnu in his universal form.
Vishnu Vikrant
The stone idol, harking back to the 8th century A.D, is of the most powerful form of Lord Vishnu. It is related to the Hindu legend of Vaman, an incarnation of Vishnu, who measured space with feet.
Vishnu Riding Garuda
This figure of Vishnu mounting Garuda, the mythical bird, dates back to the 10th century A.D.
Narsimhha Vishnu
This form of Lord Vishnu, the Narsimha, is in half human and half lion form.
How to Reach
Take a taxi from Bhaktpaur to reach Changu Narayan temple. The driv would be of approximately 30 minutes.
