Changunarayan Temple

A Brief Introduction
Changunarayan temple is a pagoda style Hindu temple which is located 22 km away from Kathmandu. It is dedicated to Vishnu in his incarnation as Narayan. This temple was originally built in the early 3rd Century during Licchhavi period. During Licchhavi period Changunarayan was named “Dolashikhar Swami” but later during Mallas, “Changunarayan” name came into practice.
This temple stands as the epitome of culture, religion, history and faith of the Kathmandu valley. In the north east corner of the courtyard, there is an idol which depicts Vishnu riding on the back of Garuda. It is the model for the image on the back of the Nepali ten rupee note.

A Short History
It is said that in the past the land where Changunarayan temple stands were full of Chaanp trees. Many cowboys and Brahmins resided in that Chaanp forest. The cowboys reared cattle owned by the Brahmins. Everyday those cowboys visited Brahmins with the milk but suddenly the stopped bringing milk to Brahmins and so the Brahmin tried to inspect on the situation so he went to the place where now Changunarayan temple stands. I is said that there was a Chaanp tree on the spot and suddenly that Brahmin saw a black man appear and suck up all the milk from the cow. Brahmin furiously cut off the black man’s head which caused it to appear with four limbs in the form of Changunarayan. Brahmin got scared and was ready to commit himself for his mistake. And then God Vishnu convinced that it wasn’t his mistake. He then explained to him that many years ago fight took place between god and devils. There was a Brahmin named Sumati who fought from the devil’s side, was killed. For this, Vishnu was wised. His curse was relieved only when a generation from Sumati cuts off his head. And so, he attempted this. He then settled there as Changunarayan who was only worshipped by a Brahmin.
At present, it is believed that only a generation from that Brahmin family can worship and this is still in practice.
Festivals at Changu:
· Baisakh Krishna Amavashya (Jatra held for 8 days)
· Krishna Asthami Rath Yatra
· During Fagu Purnima, Vanshagopal Jatra is held with Vanshgopal (the chariot)