🙏 Changu Narayan Temple
Nepal
About This Sacred Site
Changu Narayan Temple, perched on a hilltop at the eastern end of the Kathmandu Valley, is believed to be the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the two-roofed pagoda temple is surrounded by an extraordinary collection of ancient stone sculptures, including the oldest known inscription in Nepal dating to 464 CE. The temple is a masterpiece of Newari art and craftsmanship, with intricate wood and stone carvings depicting Vishnu in his various incarnations. Despite earthquake damage over the centuries, the temple has been carefully restored.
Key Facts
- •Believed to be the oldest Hindu temple in the Kathmandu Valley
- •Houses the oldest stone inscription in Nepal, dating to 464 CE
- •Dedicated to Vishnu and showcases exquisite Newari wood and stone carving
- •The temple sits atop a hill surrounded by a forest of champak trees
- •UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Kathmandu Valley monuments
Location
Coordinates: 27.7172, 85.4271
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