On a ridge above Bhaktapur, Changunarayan is thought to be the oldest temple in the Kathmandu Valley. Dedicated to Vishnu, it has a stone inscription in its courtyard dating from the 5th century, among the oldest known in Nepal, and its two-tiered pagoda and the statues around it are masterpieces of stone, wood and metal craftsmanship. It is part of the Kathmandu Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Quick answer: Changunarayan is about 20 minutes by road from Bhaktapur, or the end point of the 3–4 hour hike from Nagarkot. See the temple courtyard and its 5th-century inscription, the carved struts and statues, and the village. Foreigners pay a small entry fee.
Changunarayan Temple at a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Dedicated to | Vishnu |
| Age | Inscription from the 5th century |
| UNESCO | Part of the Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Site |
| Access | Road from Bhaktapur, or hike from Nagarkot |
| Entry | Small fee for foreign visitors |
What to see
- The temple courtyard with its ancient inscription pillar.
- Carved roof struts showing Vishnu's many forms.
- Stone images of Vishnu on Garuda.
- The small museum in the village.
Trips and guides
Plan your visit
Changunarayan rewards a slow, curious visit. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.