Nepal is a small but diverse country, landlocked between India and China. Geographically, it stretches from the fertile Tarai plains to the mid-hill valleys and the towering Himalayas, including Mt. Everest (8,848 m). The climate ranges from subtropical in the south to alpine in the north. Politically, Nepal has been a Federal Democratic Republic since 2008, with the 2015 Constitution recognizing its multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, multi-religious, and multi-cultural identity. It is divided into 7 provinces and 753 local governments, governed through a parliamentary democracy.
Naturally, Nepal is home to 8 of the world’s 14 highest peaks, over 6,500 species of flowering plants, and 900+ bird species. Protected areas include Chitwan National Park (tigers, rhinos) and Sagarmatha National Park (Everest region). Major rivers like the Koshi, Gandaki, and Karnali flow south into India.
Culturally, Nepal has a population of 29 million (2021 census) and 142 ethnic groups, including Brahmin, Chhetri, Tharu, Tamang, Rai, Limbu, Gurung, Magar, Sherpa, and Newar. It has 124 recorded languages, with Nepali as the official language. Religions include Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Kirat, and Christianity. Festivals such as Dashain, Tihar, Buddha Jayanti, Holi, Sakela, Tamu Lhosar, and Maghi reflect its rich traditions.
