USD 195
175
4 (Char) Narayan Temples Tour in Kathmandu - 1 Day
On this temple tour of Ichangu Narayan, Changu Narayan, Bisankhu Narayan, and Shesh Narayan, you'll experience a profound connection with Nepal’s spiritual heritage. As you explore these ancient temples, you’ll witness vibrant rituals, incense-filled prayer halls, and serene courtyards, offering moments of reflection and inner peace. The sounds of chanting, the sight of locals offering prayers, and the intricate architecture will immerse you in the living traditions of Hindu devotion. Breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley and the tranquil atmosphere of each temple will make this journey a deeply spiritual and enriching experience.
Trip at a Glance
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Country: Nepal
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Trip grade: Easy
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Destination: Kathmandu
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Activities: Cultural and Religious Tour
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Meals: Lunch
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Transportation: Private Vehicle/Bus
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Group size: 2-15
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Trip Start / End: Kathmandu - Kathmandu
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Best Season: All Seasons
Key Highlights
- Experience the peaceful energy of ancient Vishnu temples in the beautiful Kathmandu Valley.
- Strengthen your connection with Lord Vishnu, one of the most important Hindu gods, through prayers and rituals at each temple.
- Enjoy quiet moments of meditation and reflection in these sacred spaces, perfect for spiritual growth.
- Visit Changu Narayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and feel the deep spiritual history of one of the oldest Vishnu temples in Nepal.
- Worship and pray at Ichangu Narayan, dedicated to Vishnu in his Ichangu Narayan form, and experience ancient religious practices.
- Feel the spiritual atmosphere at Bisankhu Narayan Temple, a peaceful place for devotion and contemplation.
- Visit Shesh Narayan Temple, where Vishnu is honored as Shesh Narayan, reclining on the sacred serpent, Shesha Naga, symbolizing divine protection and balance in the universe.
- Join in local worship rituals and see how spiritual practices are a part of daily life at these temples.
- Learn about the symbolism of the serpent in Hinduism, especially at Shesh Narayan, where the serpent represents preservation and eternity in the cosmic cycle.
- Take part in special festivals like Nag Panchami and Maha Vishnu Jayanti, moments for deep reflection on the divine and the universe.
Trip Overview
This tour offers a fascinating journey through some of the most significant Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley, each dedicated to various forms of Lord Vishnu. The tour will take you through historical sites rich in cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and serene natural surroundings. We will visit temples in clockwise direction which is considered to be auspicious/ good in Hindu religion.
Your first stop is Ichangu Narayan Temple, located on a hilltop north of Kathmandu. This peaceful and ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the form of Ichangu Narayan provides a tranquil setting perfect for reflection and worship. The temple, dating back to the Licchavi period, features early Nepalese pagoda-style architecture and offers stunning views of the valley.
Next, you’ll visit Changu Narayan Temple, one of the oldest and most revered Vishnu temples in Nepal, located near Bhaktapur. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple is a UNESCO World Heritage. The temple complex is an architectural marvel, with intricate woodwork, carvings, and inscriptions that provide insight into Nepal’s ancient history. As you explore the temple, you will also encounter smaller shrines and statues that tell stories from Hindu mythology. Major festivals like Maha Vishnu Jayanti are celebrated here with grand devotion.
Your journey continues to Bisankhu Narayan Temple, located in the northeastern part of the Kathmandu Valley. Although less known than the previous temples, it is a sacred site for the local community, dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Bisankhu Narayan. The temple, with its rich history and peaceful environment, offers a glimpse into the regional religious practices and local culture. The temple's quiet atmosphere provides an ideal space for contemplation and worship, especially during key festivals such as Vishnu Jayanti.
Finally, you’ll visit Shesh Narayan Temple, situated near the Bagmati River in the village of Shesh Narayan. This temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Shesh Narayan, features a statue of Vishnu reclining on the sacred serpent, Shesha Naga. Known for its serene setting, it is a focal point for worshippers, particularly during Nag Panchami, a festival dedicated to serpent deities. The temple’s location near the river and its historical significance make it an enriching stop for those interested in the symbolism of serpents in Hindu mythology.
Throughout this tour, you’ll not only explore some of the most sacred Vishnu temples but also immerse yourself in the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the Kathmandu Valley. This journey is an opportunity to learn about Nepal’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions and the artistry that has shaped these ancient temples.
Know More about each Temples/ Narayan Temples:
- Ichangu Narayan
The Ichangu Narayan Temple, located in the northern part of Kathmandu, Nepal, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Ichangu Narayan form. Built during the Lichhavi period (5th to 9th century), it is one of the ancient temples in the Kathmandu Valley. The temple features traditional pagoda-style architecture with intricate woodwork and stone carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. The temple houses a stone idol of Lord Vishnu and is near a holy spring used for ritual purification. Ichangu Narayan is culturally significant, attracting devotees during festivals like Vishnu Jayanti, Buddha Purnima, and other Hindu celebrations. The temple's peaceful location near Shivapuri National Park offers a serene environment for worship and is also a popular spot for hiking and nature lovers. It holds both religious and cultural value, contributing to the spiritual landscape of the Kathmandu Valley and preserving ancient Lichhavi-era traditions.
- Changu Narayan
The Changu Narayan Temple, located in the Kathmandu Valley, is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Changu Narayan form. It is situated on a hilltop in the village of Changu, around 6 kilometers east of Bhaktapur. The temple dates back to the 4th century, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The architecture is a blend of ancient and medieval styles, featuring a pagoda-like structure with intricate wood and stone carvings, particularly of Hindu deities. The temple houses a large stone image of Lord Vishnu, along with many other smaller statues and carvings, reflecting the rich craftsmanship of the Lichhavi period Changu Narayan is not just a place of worship, but also an important cultural and historical site, drawing both pilgrims and tourists. The temple is known for its religious importance, particularly during festivals such as Vishnu Jayanti and Nepali New Year, when devotees gather to offer prayers and perform rituals. The site also provides panoramic views of the surrounding valley and hills, making it a popular spot for both spiritual and scenic exploration.
- Bisankhu Narayan
The Bisankhu Narayan Temple is located in the Kathmandu Valley, specifically in the Bhaktapur district of Nepal. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped in his Bisankhu Narayan form. It is considered an important religious site in the region, though it is not as widely known as other temples like Changu Narayan or Ichangu Narayan. The temple's history dates back to ancient times, and its architecture showcases traditional Nepalese styles with intricate wood and stone carvings, typical of the Lichhavi and Malla periods. The central deity, Lord Vishnu, is represented in a stone idol, and the temple is a site for regular worship, particularly during important Hindu festivals. The temple is also a peaceful location, offering visitors both a spiritual experience and scenic views of the surrounding valley and hills. Bisankhu Narayan is revered for its connection to the Hindu tradition and its role in preserving the cultural and religious practices of the Kathmandu Valley.
- Shesh Narayan
The Shesh Narayan Temple is located in the Kathmandu Valley, specifically in Tokha, a town situated to the north of Kathmandu, Nepal. This ancient Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped in the form of Shesh Narayan, where the deity is depicted reclining on the multi-headed serpent Shesha. The temple is an important religious site for Hindus and is believed to have been constructed during the Lichhavi period (around the 5th to 9th centuries). The main idol of Shesh Narayan shows Vishnu lying on the serpent, with his consort Lakshmi and various other deities present in the temple complex. The temple is also renowned for its peaceful surroundings, with a large pool near the temple, which is considered sacred. Devotees often visit the temple for regular prayers, especially during significant Hindu festivals such as Vishnu Jayanti and Janmashtami. The Shesh Narayan Temple offers both a spiritual retreat and a cultural connection to the rich history of the Kathmandu Valley, attracting both worshippers and visitors interested in exploring Nepal's ancient religious traditions.
What to Expect on a Temple Tour of Ichangu Narayan, Changu Narayan, Bisankhu Narayan, and Shesh Narayan?
1. Spiritual Experience
- Devotional Atmosphere:
The temples are sacred spaces, and you will experience the atmosphere of devotion and reverence as you witness local worshippers performing prayers, making offerings, and participating in religious rituals. The temples are dedicated to major deities such as Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, and you will see how the local community honors these gods through daily rituals and special ceremonies during festivals. - Cultural Rituals and Offerings:
Depending on the time of your visit, you may witness religious celebrations such as Dashain or Tihar, where temples are adorned with offerings, flowers, and lights. You can expect to see devotees offering prayers, incense, and fruits to the gods, and you may even participate in some of these practices, such as offering flowers or lighting incense. - Meditative and Reflective Environment:
If you visit during a quieter period, especially in winter, you can expect moments of solitude, perfect for meditation and reflection. The peaceful surroundings of the temples, especially at Shesh Narayan and Bisankhu Narayan, offer an ideal setting for contemplation and connecting with the spiritual energy of the sacred spaces.
2. Cultural Insights
- Historical Significance of the Temples:
Every temple holds its unique historical and architectural importance. For example, Changu Narayan is not only an important religious site but also one of the oldest Hindu temples in Nepal, with intricate carvings and artwork dating back over 1,500 years. As you visit, you will learn about the rich cultural heritage and religious history embedded in the architecture and rituals of these temples. - Traditional Architecture:
The temples are known for their beautiful traditional Nepalese architecture, which includes ornate wooden carvings, pagoda-style roofs, and statues of various gods and deities. As you walk through the temples, you will get a sense of Nepalese craftsmanship and religious artistry, making your experience not only spiritual but also an aesthetic one. - Local Culture and People:
Visiting these temples will also give you a chance to interact with the local communities, who may offer you insights into the history of the temples and the traditions practiced there. Expect to see locals dressed in traditional attire during religious events, and you may even be invited to join in some rituals or ceremonies, depending on the season and local customs.
3. Scenic Views and Natural Beauty
- Breathtaking Views of the Kathmandu Valley:
Some of the temples, particularly Changu Narayan, are located on hilltops, offering panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. As you visit, you can expect scenic vistas that combine both the beauty of the natural landscape and the spiritual presence of the temples. - Lush Greenery and Surrounding Nature:
During the Autumn and Spring months, you can expect lush green surroundings, beautiful flowering trees, and peaceful courtyards that enhance the spiritual experience. In winter, the landscape may be cooler, but still tranquil and inspiring.
4. Festivals and Rituals
- Participating in Religious Festivals:
If your visit coincides with a festival such as Dashain, Tihar, or Maha Shivaratri, you can expect the temples to be lively with special prayers, processions, and ceremonial rituals. The festive atmosphere in the temples will be filled with devotional music, dances, and worshippers in vibrant traditional attire. - Witnessing Unique Offerings and Prayers:
During festivals, you’ll see special offerings made to the gods, including fruits, flowers, and even animal sacrifices at certain temples. It’s a deeply cultural and spiritual experience where you will witness firsthand how the local community expresses their devotion.
5. Practical Aspects of the Tour
- Walking and Temple Exploration:
Expect to do some walking between the temples. While the distances are not very long, the paths may involve steep steps or hilly terrain, especially when visiting temples like Changu Narayan. Comfortable shoes and some stamina are recommended. - Weather Considerations:
Depending on the time of year, the weather can greatly impact your experience. Autumn and Spring are ideal for travel with pleasant temperatures and clear skies. Winter can be cold, so you’ll need to bundle up. Monsoon brings rain, which may disrupt your visit due to slippery paths and wet conditions. - Crowds:
During festivals, you can expect larger crowds, especially at the more popular temples like Changu Narayan. However, outside of festival times, the temples may be quieter, providing a more peaceful experience. Be prepared for crowds during peak seasons (Autumn and Spring). - Time Spent at Each Temple:
The visit to each temple will vary depending on your interest in exploring the history, architecture, and rituals. Generally, each temple may take around 30 minutes to an hour to explore, depending on the time you spend observing the rituals and the surrounding areas.
6. Interactions with Locals
- Local Devotees:
Expect to see local pilgrims, particularly during prayer times and festivals, performing rituals, pujas, and prayers at the temples. Many of them may share the significance of the temple with you, as religion and spirituality are an integral part of their daily lives. - Friendly Locals:
Nepali people are generally welcoming and friendly. Some temple priests or devotees may share their insights into the history and significance of the temple, or explain the customs and rituals that take place there. You may even be invited to join in certain rituals if the atmosphere is more interactive.
Itinerary
Morning:
- Start with Breakfast
Have a light breakfast in hotel to start your day. After completing your breakfast, our representative will come to your hotel along with driver to pick you in a Private Vehicle/ Bus. You will visit these Char Narayan Temple in clockwise direction as, it is considered to be auspicious and good in Hindu religion. - Ichangu Narayan Temple
Drive to Ichangu Narayan, around 30-40 minutes from central Kathmandu. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Since you are early in morning, you can take part in Morning Aarti and receive blessings. After that, explore the temple’s intricate carvings, the stone idol of Vishnu, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Spend some time offering prayers and reflecting in the serene environment.
Late Morning:
- Changu Narayan Temple
Drive to Changu Narayan (about 20-30 minutes from Ichangu Narayan). This UNESCO World Heritage Site, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is one of the oldest temples in Nepal. Explore the ancient architecture and admire the large Vishnu statue along with stone inscriptions from the Lichhavi period. Enjoy the tranquility of the site and take in the spiritual atmosphere.
Lunch:
- Lunch Break
After visiting Changu Narayan, take a break for lunch at a local restaurant in Bhaktapur or Tokha. Opt for traditional Nepali dishes like dal bhat (lentil soup with rice), momo (dumplings), or thukpa (noodle soup) to recharge for the rest of the day.
Afternoon:
- Bisankhu Narayan Temple
After lunch, drive to Bisankhu Narayan Temple (approximately 30-40 minutes from Changu Narayan). This peaceful temple in Bhaktapur is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It’s calm, less crowded spot for reflection, where you can explore the stone idols and the peaceful ambiance of the temple grounds.
Late Afternoon:
- Shesh Narayan Temple
From Bisankhu Narayan, head to Shesh Narayan Temple (approximately 30 minutes from Bhaktapur). Located in Tokha, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu reclining on the serpent Shesha. You can explore the temple complex, perform pradakshina (circumambulation) in a clockwise direction, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings with a sacred pool nearby. It’s a tranquil spot for spiritual reflection.
What is included?
- Transportation from and to Hotel (Private Vehicle)
- Local guide services
- Temple entry fees (where applicable)
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Bottled water or light refreshments
- Cultural experiences (observing rituals)
What is not included?
- Personal expenses
- Temple offerings or donations
- Additional meals (breakfast, dinner, snacks)
- Hotel accommodation (before/after the tour)
- Tips and gratuities for guide/driver
- Extra activities (outside the planned itinerary)
- Special permissions for photography/filming
- Any kind of fines for the Temple Authorities for hampering temple rule and environment
Route Map
FAQ's
While Nepali is the primary language, most staff members in lodges speak English, and some may even speak other languages. Communication should not be an issue for international tourists.
It’s advisable to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations, including hepatitis A and typhoid. Talk to your doctor about the vaccinations you need for Nepal.
The majority of international flights arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, which is located in Kathmandu. From this location, travelers can connect to Lukla to commence their trekking journey.
You typically need a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and a passport-sized photo. Payment can be made in cash or via card at the airport.
Yes, tourist visas are eligible for extension at the Department of Immigration located in Kathmandu. Ensure you have a valid reason and required documents for the extension.
If you wish to extend your stay in Nepal beyond your visa’s initial duration, you can do so by applying at the Department of Immigration in Kathmandu. Extensions are available for a maximum of 30 days, and it’s recommended to apply before your current visa expires. Best Heritage Tour can help you with the extension process if required during your Australian Camp Trek.
Equipment
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water bottle
- Camera (with permission)
- Sunscreen and hat (for sun protection)
- Lightweight backpack
- Modest clothing (for temple visits)
- Sunglasses
- Power bank for your devices
- Travel guidebook or map
- Personal identification and any necessary tickets
Trip Info
Best Time for Temple Visits:
1. Autumn (September to November)
- Religious Significance:
- Dashain (the biggest Hindu festival in Nepal) and Tihar (Festival of Lights) are major Hindu celebrations during this time. Dashain honors Durga, and Tihar is dedicated to worshipping Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, as well as other deities, including Vishnu (at Changu Narayan).
- The temples, especially Changu Narayan (dedicated to Lord Vishnu), are full of vibrant rituals, offerings, and prayers. The atmosphere is spiritually charged, with locals visiting these temples to seek blessings and participate in prayers. This is an excellent time for a deeper spiritual experience as the temples are more alive with activity.
- Weather and Travel Experience:
- Autumn offers clear skies, mild temperatures (15°C to 25°C), and minimal rainfall. The weather is comfortable for walking between temples, and the landscape around Kathmandu is lush and green post-monsoon.
- This season also offers a perfect balance of pleasant weather and manageable crowds, ensuring that the temples are busy with locals but not overcrowded with tourists.
2. Spring (March to May)
- Religious Significance:
- Maha Shivaratri (celebrating Lord Shiva) and Holi (festival of colors) take place during this period. These festivals hold great religious importance. Maha Shivaratri sees large crowds at temples like Shesh Narayan and Bisankhu Narayan, where devotees gather to pray and perform rituals dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.
- Holi brings joy and celebration, and temples such as Ichangu Narayan are vibrant with festivities and prayers, marking a time of unity and devotion.
- Weather and Travel Experience:
- Spring is characterized by moderate temperatures (15°C to 28°C), with clear skies and comfortable conditions for travel. The surrounding nature begins to bloom, adding beauty to the sacred surroundings of the temples.
- Though it’s a popular time for tourists, it’s not as crowded as autumn, providing a good balance of lively spiritual experiences and a pleasant, comfortable travel experience.
3. Winter (December to February)
- Religious Significance:
- Winter offers a quieter, more reflective time for visiting temples. Maha Shivaratri often falls in February or March, making it an excellent time to visit temples like Shesh Narayan for special night rituals and prayers dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- The cooler weather and fewer crowds make winter ideal for personal reflection, meditation, and solitary prayer. The temples are less crowded, providing a peaceful environment for deep spiritual experiences.
- Weather and Travel Experience:
- Cold temperatures (5°C to 15°C) prevail, especially in the early mornings and evenings, so be prepared with warm clothing.
- While the weather is cooler, it offers the benefit of peaceful temple visits with fewer tourists. The temples are quiet, allowing for more introspective moments in sacred spaces.
4. Monsoon (June to August)
- Religious Significance:
- Although monsoon season doesn’t coincide with major Hindu festivals, there may be smaller local rituals and offerings at temples. However, it’s generally not considered the ideal time for religious celebrations.
- The heavy rains might also prevent you from accessing certain temple areas, limiting your ability to fully engage in spiritual activities.
- Weather and Travel Experience:
- The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, humidity, and wet conditions, which make traveling less comfortable. The temples can be slippery, and some areas may be difficult to access due to waterlogging.
- This is the least favorable season for temple visits, especially if you wish to avoid disruptions due to rain and muddy paths.
Other Practical Considerations:
1. Crowds:
- Autumn (especially during Dashain and Tihar) and Spring (during Maha Shivaratri) are peak seasons for both locals and tourists, meaning the temples will be more crowded. However, the religious activities and festivities add to the experience, providing a chance to witness vibrant rituals.
- Winter offers the advantage of quieter visits with fewer tourists, allowing for more solitude and peaceful temple experiences. However, the trade-off is the colder weather.
2. Nature and Surroundings:
- Autumn and Spring offer the most beautiful surroundings, with lush greenery in the autumn and blooming flowers in the spring. The temples are surrounded by nature, adding to the serenity of the experience.
- In winter, the landscape can be stark but equally peaceful and contemplative. The cold and dry conditions may limit your time outside, but the temple visits can be deeply spiritual.
- Monsoon disrupts the natural beauty with constant rain, making outdoor exploration less enjoyable, but you can still visit the temples.
3. Best Time for Meditation and Quiet Reflection:
- Winter (December to February) is ideal for meditation and quiet reflection in the temples. The peaceful atmosphere with fewer visitors allows for more personal, uninterrupted spiritual time.
- Spring (March to May) also provides a serene environment for spiritual practices but with slightly more visitors due to the festivals.
Things to Consider during this Trip:
Dress Modestly:
Wear respectful clothing when visiting temples. Shoulders and knees must be covered by both men and women. Avoid wearing revealing clothes.
Timing:
Start your day early to visit all the temples comfortably. Some temples may be more crowded during certain times of the day, so arriving early ensures a peaceful experience.
Weather and Footwear:
The weather can vary, so check the forecast and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces or stairs.
Physical Fitness:
Some temples may require climbing stairs or walking through narrow alleys, so ensure you're physically prepared for the trip.
Stay Hydrated:
Be sure to carry a water bottle, particularly during the warmer months. It can get hot during midday.
Respect Local Culture:
Nepali people are often very spiritual and respectful of their temples. Be mindful of local customs and act with reverence when in sacred spaces.
Rules to be Followed
Remove Shoes:
Before entering the temple, always remove your shoes. This is a common rule in Hindu temples and should be followed for cleanliness and respect.
Be Quiet and Respectful:
Maintain silence or speak softly while inside the temple. This is a sacred space, and loud conversations can disturb the atmosphere.
Photography Guidelines:
Before capturing any photos, make sure to get approval, especially when photographing people or the interior of the temple. Some temples may not allow photography, particularly of certain deities or rituals.
No Smoking or Alcohol:
Smoking, drinking alcohol, or consuming non-vegetarian food is not allowed inside or near the temple grounds.
No Public Displays of Affection:
Avoid public displays of affection, as this is considered disrespectful in sacred spaces.
Follow Rituals:
If participating in rituals or prayers, follow the local customs. If unsure, it’s always best to observe quietly or ask a guide for assistance.
Offerings:
If you wish to make an offering (like flowers, incense, or money), do so with respect. Avoid bringing any inappropriate items as offerings.
Respect the Sacred Areas:
Do not enter areas marked as private or restricted within the temple unless invited by the temple staff or guide.
Keep Temple Grounds Clean:
Dispose of trash properly, and do not litter the temple premises.