There are many hidden gems in the Kathmandu Valley and Ichangu Narayan is definitely one of them.
Located at the foothill of the Nagarjun forest, approximately 3-km northwest of Swayambhu, the Ichangu Narayan temple is one of the most important Hindu temples in Kathmandu.
This temple is extremely beautiful and the atmosphere there is very peaceful and authentic. The path that leads to Ichangu Narayan is also very nice and well preserved.
Although we are very near Kathmandu, there is a village feel in this preserved part of the Valley. All year round, you can witness many varieties of beautiful flowers; but it is during Tihar that this place becomes spectacular with marigold flowers blooming on the perfectly bent rolling green hills.
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Watch our Ichangu Narayan video
Brief History of Ichangu Narayan temple
With Brahma and Shiva, Vishnu is one of the 3 most important Gods of the Hindus; he’s the God of Goodness, known as the ‘Preserver’, protector of the universe.
The Ichangu Narayan temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and it is one of the four ‘Narayan temples’ (Narayan is one of the incarnations of Vishnu ~ the eternal man) of the Kathmandu Valley; the others are Changu Narayan in Bhaktapur, Bisankhu Narayan in Godawari, and Shesh Narayan in Dakshinkali. All these four temples were built to protect the valley against evil spirits.
Ichangu Narayan dates back to the 5th century. However, the current two-roofed pagoda style temple was built in the 18th century on the site of the previous temple built in 1512.
Ichangu Narayan is an extraordinary pilgrimage site as it is believed that Ichangu was buried for a long time under debris and was uncovered by a devotee after the temple appeared in his dream. Some believe that the temple was built in the 5th century during the reign of King Haridatta (Lichhavi dynasty) while others think that Ichangu Narayan temple dates back to 16th century. The temple as we know it today was built in the 18th century on the foundations of the former temple.
Things to know before visiting Ichangu Narayan
1. Do not mistake the Ichangu Narayan temple with the Changu Narayan temple in Bhaktapur.
2. The temple is free to access contrary to many other temples in Kathmandu.
3. The path leading to the temple is surprisingly beautiful given its proximity to Kathmandu and you might have the opportunity to meet many villagers (and horticulturists) on the way. The hike is as beautiful as the final destination. You’ll escape the city within minutes.
4. The two-storey temple is dotted with ancient garudas and Vaishnavite symbols.
5. Ichangu Narayan is located at the foothill of the Nagarjun forest, not too far from Swayambhu (Monkey temple).
6. Haribodhini Ekadashi is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is the day when Vishnu awakens from his cosmic slumber. The festival usually falls in October – November. During the festival, many pilgrims gather at Ichangu Narayan temple.
7. A lot of pilgrims flock to Ichangu Narayan temple on the full moon day of August when devotees visit the all four Narayan temples in the Valley.
How to get to Ichangu Narayan temple?
You can hike from Swayambhu. Or like us, you can take a Pathao (similar to Uber in Nepal but cheaper than taxis) up to Single Tree Hill.
We hiked to Ichangu Narayan from the Single Tree Hill. It took us about 15 minutes.
Other Great Places to Visit near IChangu Narayan temple
Swayambhunath is the oldest stupa in Kathmandu and one of the oldest religious sites in Nepal. The historic landmark has been a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey temple, is home to hundreds of monkeys. The monkeys of Swayambhu are considered ‘holy monkeys’. Swayambhunath is achingly beautiful and absolutely fascinating. Besides, the site also offers an amazing panoramic view of the capital city. It is definitely a must-see for every traveler landing in Kathmandu.
Single Tree hill is a teeny tiny hill that offers a splendid panoramic view over the capital city. Initially, Single Tree Hill was just that: a single tree atop of a hill. However, now, there is a hotel restaurant (Kathmandu Sky View Resort) and two swings (like the famous Bali swing).
For more travel inspiration in Nepal, visit my Instagram account: paris_kathmandu