Overview of Nepal

Profile

Nepal is characterized by its dramatic terrain stretching from the Himalayan mountains to the Tarai plains, and rich culture where diverse ethnic groups, languages, and religions coexist. The main industries are agriculture and tourism, particularly mountain tourism including trekking, which is world-renowned. The Kathmandu Valley preserves medieval Newari art and architecture, and the country boasts numerous World Heritage sites including Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, and rich nature reserves. In recent years, the economy has been supported by hydroelectric power development, IT outsourcing, and remittances from overseas workers.

Official name: Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal
Common name: Nepal
Numeric code: 524
Alpha-3 code: NPL
Alpha-2 code: NP
Population: Approx. 30.5 million (2024)
Population density: Approx. 208
Primary languages: Nepali
Major religions: Hinduism, Buddhism
National anthem: Sayaun Thunga Phulka (We Are Brave Nepali)
Calling code: +977
Internet TLD: .np

History

Following the birth of Buddha in ancient times and successive dynasties, the monarchy was abolished in 2008, establishing a federal democratic republic.

This land at the crossroads of the Himalayas and Indian civilization began with the Licchavi dynasty around the 4th century, and during the era of three Malla kingdoms, unique Newari culture flourished. In the 18th century, King Prithvi Narayan Shah of Gorkha unified the small kingdoms to establish the Kingdom of Nepal. After the Gurkha War in the 19th century, following the hereditary dictatorship of Rana prime ministers, the country transitioned to restored monarchy and constitutional monarchy in 1951. Following democratization in 1990 and a Maoist civil war from 1996, a comprehensive peace agreement was signed. On May 28, 2008, the Constituent Assembly abolished the monarchy and declared a republic. Under the new constitution promulgated in September 2015, a federal state structure consisting of seven provinces was established.

Geography & climate

Northern region features Himalayas over 8,000m, central region has hills and valleys, southern region has fertile Tarai extending to Ganges Plain.

Vertical climate zones from mountain subtropical to alpine cold

Area: Asia / 147516 km²
Capital: Kathmandu
Largest city: Kathmandu
Coastal status: No
Major lakes: Phewa Lake, Rara Lake, Riku Tal
Bordering countries: China (Tibet Autonomous Region), India

Natural resources

Hydropower resources, Limestone, Copper, Cobalt, Iron ore, Mica, Forests, Medicinal herbs, Crystal, Tourism resources, Alluvial gold, Rock salt

Politics

Government: Federal democratic republic (parliamentary system)

Economy

Currency: Nepalese Rupee (NPR)

GDP (nominal): 40.9 billion US Dollar (2023)

GDP (PPP): 117.8 billion International Dollar (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Nepali

Time zone: Nepal Standard Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Chhetri, Brahmin (Hill Bahun), Magar, Tamang, Newar, Gurung, Tharu, Rai, Sherpa, Yadav

Life expectancy

Approx. 71.2 years

Literacy rate

Approx. 68%

National sports

Cricket, Football, Badminton, Volleyball, Kabaddi, Athletics