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Landline number : 01-5121097
Thasikhel, Lalitpur, Nepal,
PO Box: 12117
Changu Narayan Temple
This is the most ancient Hindu temple in Kathmandu and is dedicated to lord Vishnu. The complex is built on a peninsula which was not submerged in water as most of the flat valley once was, and it may have even earlier roots than are now known. The lavishly decorated two-tiered principal temple stands in a spacious courtyard that is filled with artistic and priceless statues, idols and sculptures, some dating back to 4th century.
For many years the earliest inscribed date known in the valley was here, on the base of an early 5th century pillar. The image of Vishnu in the main temple is so holy that non-Hindus are not allowed to see it (though it has been widely copied by Nepali artists).
The temple comples lies at the western end of a long, narrow ridge. The village of Changu Narayan sits along this ridge. This attractive and characteristic town would be reason enough to visit, even without the temple complex.
