The Essence of Kathmandu valley- Changu Narayan Temple

Changu Narayan temple is one of the oldest temples of Nepal. Best specimens of wood, stone and metal craft are adorned in this temple. This temple is best example of religion, culture, faith and history of Kathmandu. This temple is 22 km away from Kathmandu and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The image of Lord Vishnu with 10 arms and 10 heads is the main attraction of this temple.

Historical Importance

• The temple is important as it is the oldest temple of Nepal which built in 4th century
• The fine example of stone craving which is the image of Lord Vishnu with 10 arms and 10 heads
• Idols and shrines of the temple are one of the best examples of architectural beauty.

Places to be Seen

• Garuda Narayana temple
• Krishna shrine
• Shrine of King Bhupalendra Malla and his mother
• Nateshvara shrine
• Sculpture of Garuda
• Sculpture of Sri Mahadev
• Sculptures: Garuda Ganesh, Vishnu and Durga Avalokitesvara
• Shrine of Somalingeshvara
• Bhagvati Temple
• Ganesh Shrine
• Vishnu Vishvarupa
• Vishnu Vikranta
• Stone Column
• Lakshmi Temple & Shiva Temple

Legendry Places in the temple

Garuda Idol

There is esteemed idol of Garuda inside the temple. Devotees used to offer sweets to the idol every year on the occasion of Nag Panchami. Devotees offer sweets for remembering the great epic struggle with the snake named Taksaka. It is believed the moisture drops which are collected by priests are very much effective against skin disease like leprosy and ulcer too.

King Bhupalendra Malla Statue

The politics of King Bhupalendra Malla and his mother was characterized as bloody fighting in the 17th century. When both came to gods they were generous.

Vishnu Sculpture

There is a sculpture of Lord Vishnu seated on Garuda which is located at the north of the temple. the same image you can see on Nepalese Rs 10 note.’

Important Vishnu Sculptures

Vishvarupa
This sculpture presents the universal form of Lord Vishnu

Vishnu Vikranta

This idol represents the most powerful form of Lord Vishnu. There is a legend of Lord Vishnu’s Vaman avatar who measured whole earth and space with his feet.

Vishnu Riding Garuda

The Figure of Lord Vishnu who sits on Garuda which is the mythical bird

Narsimhha Vishnu

This is also one incarnation of Lord Vishnu where his face was like lion and body was like human.             

How to Reach

You can hire taxi from Bhaktapur to reach at Changu Narayan Temple. It is approximately 30 minute journey. .