This renowned shrine lies atop Bhaktapur, a hill station to the north, located about 7 miles away from Kathmandu, and was also enlisted in UNESCO’s World Heritage site in 1979. The temple’s diagonal beams, supporting its two pagoda roofs, are attractive with detailed carvings depicting the 10 incarnations of Vishnu and various multi-armed Tantric goddesses. Guarding the temple’s four entrances are stone lions, griffins, elephants, and sarabhas, mythical creatures from Hindu mythology.
However, the highlights of the collection are the statues and carvings scattered throughout the courtyard, some dating back to the Licchavi era (400 to 750). Opposite the west entrance of the temple stands a statue of Garuda, the legendary bird that served as Vishnu’s mount, dating back to the fifth century. The importance of this image can be ascertained from the fact that it features in the Nepalese 10-rupee banknote Adjacent to this statue lies the oldest stone inscription in the Kathmandu Valley, carved in 464, narrating the story of how a king persuaded his mother against suicide following her husband’s demise.
The statue inside the temple shows Vishnu as Narayan, the creator of all life, but the beautifully decorated metal-plate doors are only opened for rituals and only Hindus may enter.
The temple features an impressive, gilded copper roof topped by a pinnacle. Each of the four entrances is decorated with detailed carved crests known as Torana’s. Within the temple courtyard, pillars stand holding the sacred possessions of Lord Vishnu: the conch, discus, mace, and lotus.
The main temple showcases remarkable carvings, complemented by a surrounding collection of statues that are among the finest in the region. Elaborate carvings depicting Vishnu’s incarnations and Tantric goddesses decorate the temple’s beams, while stone guardians safeguard the four entrances. The temple courtyard hosts numerous ancient statues, some dating back to the Licchavi era, including the renowned Garuda statue and the Kathmandu Valley’s oldest stone inscription from the fifth century. This temple draws Hindus from various parts of the world, who often visit to participate in religious festivals such as Haribodhini Ekadashi, Naag Panchami, Janai Purnima, Mahasnan, Jugadi Navami, and others.
The Changu Museum, situated in the charming village of Changu Narayan just a short distance from Kathmandu, is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. The Changu museum is the first private museum in Nepal. It has a large collection of coins, kitchen materials, and other livelihood stuff of the Lichhavi periods. You need to pay an entrance fee to enter the museum. It houses a diverse collection of artifacts, utensils, coins, and tools, making it one of the most varied collections in Nepal. Despite its unassuming exterior, with mahogany-painted doors and intricately carved wooden window frames, the museum’s entrance warmly welcomes visitors, offering a glimpse of the remarkable treasures within. As the only privately-owned museum in the country, the Changu Museum not only showcases Nepal’s incredible relics but also highlight on the rich history and origins of Changu Narayan.
Changu Narayan, recognized as one of Nepal’s seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, derives its name from the deity enshrined in the temple situated atop a steep ascent of brick steps. Believed to have been constructed between the 4th and 5th centuries, this temple is revered as the oldest in the Kathmandu Valley. Watercolor paintings near the museum’s entrance vividly depict the mythical origins of Changu Narayan, once a dense forest of Champak trees.
The museum’s guestbook, filled with signatures from visitors worldwide, speaks volumes about its cultural significance and the sense of wonder it evokes. Exhibits are thoughtfully presented with labels in both English and Nepali, ensuring accessibility for all. Visitors can marvel at an array of items, from musical instruments to ancient weapons, and from a fire mirror to bowls containing rice grains preserved for over two centuries.
The Chinna Masta temple is dedicated entirely to Chinna Masta Devi, worshiped by the inhabitants of Changu as a local incarnation of Goddess Kali, believed to have existed since ancient times. As a tantric goddess, she was traditionally offered sacrifices, but she is revered for her own sacrifice. Legend has it that she severed her own head to satiate the hunger of the Dakini and Varnini.
Nearly every depiction of her portrays this legendary act, with her holding her severed head in one hand and a scimitar in the other. Three streams of blood gush from her neck, nourishing Dakini, Varnini, and herself. The temple, situated within the courtyard of Changu Narayan Temple, features a single gilded roof. In front of it stand two miniature taleju bells and two flags, with guardians flanking the doors. Positioned in the southeast corner of the courtyard, the temple is a significant site of reverence.
The small, two-storied temple located within the Changu courtyard is known as Kileshwor Mahadev Temple, often referred to as the Pashupatinath Temple. There’s a shared belief that Lord Shiva resides here to safeguard the hill. Like the Changu Narayan temple, this shrine also exudes an aura of antiquity and is decorated with intricate art and architecture. The beautifully carved struts and upper sections of the windows add to its picturesque charm.
During the World Wood Day celebrations in Nepal in 2016, a replica of this temple was constructed. Videos of the construction process can be found on YouTube, showcasing the nine-day endeavour. The replica was built using 531 timber pieces, 422 joints, and 7 tons of reclaimed Sal wood. There are several activities to enjoy around Changu Narayan like Sightseeing, Cycling, Hiking/Camping, sunset and Local cuisine
