Nepal
Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked country in South Asia. It is bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. With an area of Template:Convert, Nepal is the 93rd largest country by land area and the 49th most populous country, with a population of approximately 30 million. The capital and largest city is Kathmandu.
Geography
Nepal is known for its diverse geography, which ranges from the fertile Terai plains in the south to the rugged Himalayas in the north, including Mount Everest, the highest point on Earth. The country's terrain plays a significant role in its cultural and biological diversity. The country is divided into three main geographic regions:
- The Himalayan region, where many of the world's highest peaks are located.
- The Hills region, which includes valleys and mid-altitude mountains.
- The Terai region, a flat and fertile land that is part of the northern Ganges basin.
History
Nepal has a long history of civilization, dating back thousands of years. It was home to several ancient cultures and is noted for being the birthplace of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, in the city of Lumbini around the 6th century BCE. Historically, Nepal was a kingdom ruled by monarchs until the country transitioned to a federal republic in 2008 after a decade-long civil war between government forces and Maoist insurgents. The monarchy was abolished, and Nepal became a multi-party democracy.
Politics
Nepal operates as a federal parliamentary republic. The President is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. The country is divided into seven provinces, each with its own government. The Constitution of Nepal, adopted in 2015, defines Nepal as a secular state, though Hinduism remains the dominant religion.
Economy
Nepal's economy is primarily agrarian, with about 60% of the population employed in agriculture. The country's major crops include rice, maize, and wheat. Tourism, especially trekking and mountaineering, plays a significant role in the economy, particularly due to the popularity of the Himalayas and heritage sites such as Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa. Nepal faces economic challenges due to its landlocked geography and political instability, but it has seen gradual development in areas like infrastructure, education, and health.
Demographics
Nepal is a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, and multi-religious nation. The majority of the population practices Hinduism, followed by Buddhism, Islam, and other religions. Nepali is the official language, though many ethnic groups speak their own languages. The country's population is a blend of various ethnicities, including the Chhetri, Brahmin, Magar, Tharu, and Tamang communities. Urbanization is increasing, but most people still live in rural areas.
Culture
Nepal's rich cultural heritage is shaped by its diverse population and geography. Traditional Nepalese architecture, art, and festivals are deeply rooted in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. Major festivals include Dashain, Tihar, Buddha Jayanti, and many others. The country is also known for its unique traditional music and dance, as well as its distinctive cuisine, including dishes like dal bhat.
Foreign Relations and Military
Nepal maintains a policy of neutrality in international relations, with close ties to both China and India. It is a member of the United Nations and several regional organizations, including the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). The Nepalese Army primarily focuses on national defense and participates in United Nations peacekeeping missions.