CHANGU NARAYAN HIKING
Changu Narayan is a spiritual and historical tourist destination in Nepal located in the hills east of Bhaktapur. It is home to one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal, believed to date back to the 4th century. A living testimony to Nepal's rich cultural heritage, the temple complex features intricate carvings, stone sculptures and inscriptions that provide insight into the art and architecture of ancient Nepal. The main shrine houses a magnificent statue of Lord Vishnu, surrounded by smaller shrines dedicated to other deities. The temple complex also serves as an active center of worship for thousands of devotees, with festivals like Chhath and Dashain attracting large crowds.
The trail to Changu Narayan is not just a hike; it is a journey through the cultural fabric of the area, passing through charming villages where local traditions thrive. Connecting with warm-hearted locals, sampling traditional snacks and witnessing the daily lives of those who have called this land home for generations enhances the hiking experience.
Due to its medium difficulty, it is accessible to both experienced hikers and beginners. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable hike, consider packing essentials such as water, snacks, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. Common issues such as altitude adjustment, trail condition and navigation may occur.
Embark on a journey to Chang Narayan, which invites you to explore the intertwining stories of nature and culture. Witness stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley and connect with the rich history that surrounds you as you wander through the enchanting landscape.
| Minimum travellers | 2 |
| Maximum travellers | 10 |
Itinerary
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1-Day Travel Itinerary for Changu Narayan Hiking
Morning 7:00 AM – Breakfast in Kathmandu Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café or your hotel. Try traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat or a simple omelet with toast and coffee. 8:00 AM – Depart for Bhaktapur Travel to Bhaktapur, which is about 12 kilometers from Kathmandu. You can take a taxi or a tourist bus, which typically takes around 30-45 minutes. 8:45 AM – Arrive at Bhaktapur Durbar Square Spend some time exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Visit ancient temples, the 55-Window Palace, and enjoy the local architecture. Don't forget to try king curd (juju dhau) from a local vendor! 10:00 AM – Head to Changu Narayan Take a local bus or a taxi from Bhaktapur Durbar Square to Changu Narayan Temple, which is approximately 5 kilometers away. The drive will take around 20 minutes. Midday 10:30 AM – Start the Hike Begin your hike from Changu Narayan Temple. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The hike generally takes about 1-2 hours, depending on your pace. 12:00 PM – Arrive at Changu Narayan Temple Explore the ancient Changu Narayan Temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Take in the beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and tranquil atmosphere. Afternoon 1:00 PM – Lunch Nearby Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the temple. Try some traditional Nepali cuisine, such as thukpa (noodle soup) or momo (dumplings). 2:00 PM – Explore Surroundings After lunch, take some time to explore the area around Changu Narayan. You can walk around the village, visit nearby fields, or simply relax and take photographs of the scenic landscapes. Late Afternoon 3:30 PM – Return Hike Begin your hike back down to the base. Take your time and enjoy the views. If you’d like, you can explore some of the smaller trails along the way. 5:00 PM – Return to Bhaktapur Once back at the base, take a local taxi or bus back to Bhaktapur. 5:30 PM – Evening in Bhaktapur Spend your evening strolling through Bhaktapur’s vibrant streets. Visit any sights you may have missed earlier in the day, shop for handicrafts, or relax at a café. Evening 7:00 PM – Dinner in Bhaktapur Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Opt for a meal that includes a variety of traditional dishes, such as sel roti, paneer, or gundruk ko jhol. 8:30 PM – Return to Kathmandu Depart from Bhaktapur and head back to Kathmandu. You can take a taxi or a bus depending on your schedule. 9:15 PM – Arrive Back in Kathmandu End your day with some relaxation at your hotel or a stroll around Thamel to soak in the nightlife.
Services
Cost Includes
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Transportation:
Private vehicle or public transport from Kathmandu to the starting point (usually Telkot or Sankhu) and back from Changu Narayan.
Guide (if applicable):
English-speaking hiking guide (if part of a guided tour).
Entry Fees:
Entrance ticket to Changu Narayan Temple (NPR 350 for foreigners).
Lunch/Snacks:
Local lunch or packed lunch during the hike (in some packages).
Drinking Water:
1-2 bottles of water (sometimes provided).
First Aid:
Basic first-aid kit with the guide.
Government Taxes and Service Charges:
Included if booked through a tour operator.
Cost Excludes
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Personal Expenses:
Extra drinks, snacks, souvenirs, etc.
Tips:
Tips for the guide or driver (optional but appreciated).
Travel Insurance:
Not included; you need to arrange this on your own if needed.
Meals not mentioned:
Breakfast or dinner in Kathmandu (if it's a day hike).
Additional transport:
If you decide to return from a different location or extend your hike (e.g., Bhaktapur or Nagarkot), extra charges may apply.
Entry Fees to Other Places:
If you decide to visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square, there's a separate entrance fee (around NPR 1500 for foreigners).
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