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Nepal (Nepali: नेपाल) is a landlocked country located in South Asia, bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. It lies along the Himalayan range and is known for its diverse geography, rich cultural heritage, and historical significance as the birthplace of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. The country’s capital and largest city is Kathmandu.
Nepal
| Native name | नेपाल |
|---|---|
| Official name | Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal |
| Capital | Kathmandu |
| Largest city | Kathmandu |
| Official language | Nepali |
| Government | Federal parliamentary republic |
| President | Ram Chandra Paudel |
| Prime Minister | Shushila Karki |
| Area | 147,516 km² (56,956 sq mi) |
| Population (2024 est.) | ≈ 30.9 million |
| Density | ≈ 209/km² (541/sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC+5:45 (Nepal Time) |
| Currency | Nepalese rupee (NPR) |
| Calling code | +977 |
| ISO code | NP |
Geography and Location
Nepal is situated between latitudes 26° and 31°N and longitudes 80° and 89°E, occupying a central position in the Himalayas. It shares an 1,414-kilometer border with China’s Tibet Autonomous Region and a 1,690-kilometer border with India. The terrain varies from lowland Terai plains in the south to the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), in the north.
History and Politics
Historically, Nepal was a collection of small kingdoms until the unification campaign of King Prithvi Narayan Shah in the 18th century. The country remained an independent monarchy until the abolition of the royal institution in A.D. 2008, when it became the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal. The current political system is a multiparty democracy with an elected parliament and provincial governments.
People and Culture
Nepal is a multicultural, multilingual, and multiethnic nation where more than 120 ethnic groups and over 100 languages coexist. According to the 2021 National Census, the largest ethnic communities include Chhetri, Brahmin, Magar, Tharu, Tamang, Newar, Bishokarma, Sarki, Gurung, Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, Thakuri, and Ghale populations, among others. These groups are spread across the Himalaya, Hill, and Terai regions, each contributing unique traditions, attire, and languages that together form the cultural mosaic of Nepal.
Nepal’s cultural expression is deeply tied to its festivals, music, art, and cuisine. Major national celebrations include Dashain and Tihar (Hindu festivals of victory and light), Lhosar (Sherpa, Tamang and Gurung New Year), Chhath (a sun-worship festival of the Terai), Eid (celebrated by Nepali Muslims), Christmas, and Maghe Sankranti. Festivals often cross ethnic and religious boundaries, symbolizing unity and shared cultural identity. Traditional dances such as Maruni, Sorathi, Tamang Selo, and Chariya remain important parts of local celebrations.
From the high Himalayas to the southern plains, Nepali society values harmony, hospitality, and community cooperation. In rural areas, joint family systems and communal labor practices like parma (mutual help) are still common. The country’s cuisine includes dal bhat tarkari (rice, lentil soup, and curry), momo (dumplings), sel roti, and regionally distinct dishes such as dhindo and gundruk. Despite modern influences and migration, Nepal’s cultural diversity continues to be its greatest strength, reflecting coexistence and mutual respect among its people.
Economy
The economy of Nepal is primarily based on agriculture, remittances, tourism, and hydropower. Agriculture employs about two-thirds of the population. Remittances from migrant workers contribute significantly to GDP. Nepal’s tourism industry attracts visitors for trekking, mountaineering, and cultural experiences, with destinations like Everest, Annapurna, Pokhara, and Lumbini among the most popular.
Geography and Environment
Nepal’s ecosystem ranges from tropical forests in the Terai to alpine meadows in the Himalayas. National parks such as Chitwan and Sagarmatha are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Major rivers include the Koshi, Gandaki, and Karnali, which feed into the Ganges system. The country faces environmental challenges like deforestation, landslides, and climate change impacts on mountain glaciers.
Education and Development
Education in Nepal has expanded rapidly since the 1990s, with literacy rates rising above 76%. Institutions such as Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu University, and Pokhara University play central roles in higher education. Ongoing development programs aim to improve infrastructure, connectivity, and access to digital technology across provinces.
Tourism and Landmarks
Nepal is internationally known for its natural and cultural heritage. Major attractions include Mount Everest, Annapurna Base Camp, Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, Patan Durbar Square, and Lumbini—the birthplace of Buddha. The blend of mountains, temples, and vibrant local life makes Nepal one of the most visited destinations in Asia.