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Temples & religious sites

Changu Narayan Temple

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Changu Narayan Temple

Changu Narayan Temple

Located on a hilltop in Bhaktapur, this Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Built in the 4th century, it is one of the oldest temples in Nepal and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Travelers visit the site to see its ancient stone carvings and traditional Newari architecture.

Getting There

The temple is situated outside the main city center of Bhaktapur. Visitors typically reach the site via local taxi or hired vehicle from the center. The journey generally takes 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Visit Duration

Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours to explore the temple complex and the surrounding courtyard.

When to Visit

Visiting during the early morning is recommended to avoid the midday heat and larger groups of tourists. The site can get crowded during major Hindu festivals. The best seasons for visiting are autumn and spring when the weather is mild.

Nearby Attractions

The temple can be combined with other sites in and around Bhaktapur. Nearby locations include:

  • Gokarneshwor Mahadev temple: 4.7km
  • Pujarimath Museum: 4.9km
  • Bhaktapur Durbar Square: 4.9km
  • Nyatapola Temple: 5km

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

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Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside

Gokarneshwor Mahadev temple

Temples & religious sites

Gokarneshwor Mahadev temple

This Hindu temple stands near the village of Gokarna in the Kathmandu Valley, with a lingam dedicated to Shiva enshrined in its main sanctuary. It's a rewarding place to explore, with numerous statues and stone carvings scattered throughout the grounds.

4.7 km away

Pujarimath Museum

Museums & galleries

Pujarimath Museum

This museum in Bhaktapur occupies a building originally constructed in the 15th century and rebuilt in 1763 into its present form. It's a great place to soak in the atmosphere of an old monastery building.

4.9 km away

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Parks & gardens

Bhaktapur Durbar Square

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is one of Nepal's iconic royal squares, located in the heart of Bhaktapur. It's a great place to stroll slowly through its old-world alleys.

4.9 km away

Nyatapola Temple

Temples & religious sites

Nyatapola Temple

A five-tiered pagoda-style temple in the heart of Bhaktapur, considered the tallest temple in Nepal. Built in the early 18th century, it has withstood numerous earthquakes over the centuries.

5.0 km away

Bagmati River

Nature

Bagmati River

The Bagmati River is a sacred waterway flowing through Kathmandu Valley, with the Hindu holy site of Pashupatinath Temple standing on its banks. Here you can witness distinctive Hindu customs, including cremation rites held along the riverbank.

6.1 km away

Suryavinayak Temple

Temples & religious sites

Suryavinayak Temple

Suryavinayak Temple is a Hindu temple in Bhaktapur dedicated to the elephant god Ganesh. It is considered one of the Kathmandu Valley's leading Ganesh temples and is also known as a good spot to watch the sunrise.

6.7 km away