Lichhavi Artistic Triumph
Built during the reign of early Lichhavi rulers, Changu Narayan preserves the earliest surviving examples of classical Nepalese stone iconography and royal epigraphy.
1,540 m
BHAKTAPUR DISTRICT
Changu Narayan Temple
"Champakagiri Narayan"
ELEVATION1,540 m5,052 ft
LOCATIONChangunarayan Ridge, BhaktapurUNESCO World Heritage Site
BEST SEASONAutumn & SpringOct–Dec / Feb–April
ARCHITECTUREAncient Lichhavi Pagoda StyleVaishnavism Heritage Site
The Oldest Temple Monument in the Valley
Changu Narayan Temple rests on a high forested hill ridge east of Kathmandu. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it is widely considered the oldest standing temple structure and archaeological site in the Kathmandu Valley.
The courtyard contains a priceless collection of stone, wood, and metal sculptures spanning from the Lichhavi era, including the oldest written stone inscription in Nepal dated to 464 AD.
Key Highlights
- Stone pillar inscription of King Manadeva dated 464 AD (Oldest recorded script in Nepal).
- Masterpiece stone sculptures of Lord Vishnu as Vishwarupa, Narasimha, and Vikrant.
- Two-tiered pagoda featuring hand-carved wooden struts of the ten avatars of Vishnu.
- Traditional Newar village surrounding the quiet hilltop cobblestone path.
- Changu Museum housing ancient coins, household tools, and religious relics.
Quick Facts
FOUNDED / ORIGIN4th–5th Century AD (King Hari Datta / Manadeva)
MAIN FESTIVALChangu Narayan Jatra & Haribodhini Ekadashi
LINEAGE & ERALichhavi Dynasty Vaishna
COORDINATES27.7161° N, 85.4278° E
Beyond the Basics
Changu Narayan Temple: History, Rituals & Visitor Guide
How Changu Narayan Temple was built and used over time, what happens there during festivals, and what to know before you arrive.
Haribodhini Ekadashi
Thousands of pilgrims visit Changu Narayan to celebrate Lord Vishnu awakening from his four-month cosmic sleep.
Visiting Advice
A small local heritage ticket fee applies at the entrance village before ascending to the courtyard.
Changu Narayan Temple: Setting, Access and Timing
Changu Narayan Temple (Champakagiri Narayan) lies at 1,540 m in Changunarayan Ridge, Bhaktapur, BHAKTAPUR DISTRICT, within the Kathmandu Valley region. Its setting is described as UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the monument is associated with 4th–5th Century AD (King Hari Datta / Manadeva).
Most travellers reach Changu Narayan Temple from the nearest town in BHAKTAPUR DISTRICT by road, then explore on foot. The recommended window is Autumn & Spring (Oct–Dec / Feb–April); early morning is quieter and cooler, while late afternoon offers softer light for the carved facades.
- Coordinates: 27.7161° N, 85.4278° E.
- Lineage: Lichhavi Dynasty Vaishna.
- Main festival: Changu Narayan Jatra & Haribodhini Ekadashi.
Changu Narayan Temple: Architecture and Living Tradition
The monument represents Ancient Lichhavi Pagoda Style, within the Vaishnavism Heritage Site tradition. Brick, timber, stone, and metal are worked together in a way that has survived earthquakes and centuries of use, and restoration at Changu Narayan Temple continues to rely on local craftspeople.
Changu Narayan Temple is still a working religious and community space rather than a ruin. Offerings, repairs, festivals, and everyday traffic all take place among its historic structures, so visitors should expect the site to be busy with local life as well as tourism.