Changu Narayan Heritage Hike

Bhaktapur

Highlights

• Hike to Nepal's oldest Hindu temple, a living museum of Licchavi-era stone and wood art.
• UNESCO heritage · 1 day
• Small group, guide-led

Day-by-day itinerary

1. D1

   Hike from Nagarkot or Bhaktapur

   Begin from Nagarkot (steep 3-hour descent) or Bhaktapur (gentle 2-hour ascent). The trail passes through terraced fields, traditional Newari villages, and forest. Arrive at the hilltop temple surrounded by ancient champak trees. The scent of the forest and temple incense blend in the morning air.

   Bhaktapur As per plan

2. D2

   Temple courtyard art tour

   Enter the temple complex and examine the masterpieces: the 5th-century Garuda statue kneeling with folded hands, the 7th-century Narasimha sculpture, and the 9th-century Vishnu on Garuda. Your guide explains each carving's mythological significance and artistic technique. Visit the small museum to see the original stone inscription from 464 CE.

   Bhaktapur As per plan

3. D3

   Village visit and Bhaktapur connection

   Walk through the traditional village of Changu, where locals maintain Newari customs. If hiking from Bhaktapur, explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square's medieval architecture and taste the famous juju dhau (king curd). Visit the Pottery Square to see artisans at work. Return to Kathmandu with a deep appreciation for Nepal's artistic heritage.

   Bhaktapur As per plan

Price includes

• Local guide
• Entry tickets & permits
• Ground transfers

Make it yours (upsells)

Everything apart from the trip itself is an upsell — tick what you want.