Nepal
is a land of dramatic mountains, sacred temples and extraordinary
cultural traditions. Discover surprising facts, unique customs and
hidden stories that reveal the deeper character of this Himalayan
nation.
• Nepal is the only country with a non-rectangular flag, shaped from two overlapping triangles.
• The Nepalese calendar is around 56–57 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar.
• Cows are considered sacred and are the national animal — harming one is illegal.
• Kathmandu Valley was once a vast lake according to local legend.
• Nepal has one of the world’s densest concentrations of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Nepal introduced the world to the Kumari — a living child goddess worshipped in Kathmandu.
• The country is a global leader in community-based conservation, pioneering wildlife recovery models.
• Nepal is home to some of the earliest metalworking traditions in South Asia.
• Sherpa mountaineering expertise set global standards for high-altitude climbing.
• Avoid touching someone’s head; it’s considered sacred in many communities.
• Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.
• Shoes are removed before entering temples and many homes.
• Using the right hand for receiving and giving is considered respectful.
• Certain trekking routes require special permits to protect local regions.
• Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, was born in Lumbini, Nepal.
• Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa climber, made history summiting Everest with Edmund Hillary.
• King Prithvi Narayan Shah unified Nepal in the 18th century.
• Mira Rai, an internationally acclaimed trail runner, is a global sporting inspiration.
• Nepal is home to eight of the world’s fourteen mountains over 8,000 metres.
• The country has stunning biodiversity, from snow leopards to Bengal tigers.
• The Terai region contrasts sharply with Himalayan terrain, offering subtropical landscapes.
• Kathmandu is one of the world’s highest capital cities.
• Nepal has no seacoast and shares borders only with India and China.
• Nepalese society is rich in ethnic diversity, with over 120 languages spoken.
• Festivals such as Dashain and Tihar bring families and communities together.
• Tea drinking is a daily ritual, from sweet milk tea to salty Tibetan butter tea.
• Many households follow a blend of Hindu and Buddhist practices.
• Prayer wheels, mantras and colourful prayer flags are a daily sight in Buddhist regions.
• Traditional wood carving and metalcraft date back centuries.
• Nepalese cuisine features dal bhat, momo dumplings and regional dishes from the mountains.
• Music and dance vary widely by ethnic group and region.
• Nepal was never colonised, preserving much of its ancient identity.
• The Malla period produced intricate temples and palaces that still define Kathmandu’s architecture.
• Lumbini is one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites on Earth.
• The Gorkha Kingdom expanded Nepal’s territory and influence.
• Mount Everest, the world’s tallest peak, rises 8,848 metres above sea level.
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square is filled with ancient shrines and royal courtyards.
• Chitwan National Park is one of Asia’s most successful wildlife conservation areas.
• The Pashupatinath Temple complex is one of Hinduism’s holiest sites.
• Nepal is home to Mount Everest.
• The Nepalese calendar is decades ahead of the Western one.
• Over 120 languages are spoken nationwide.
• The national animal is the cow.
• Nepal has never been colonised.
• Kathmandu Valley has seven UNESCO sites.
• Lumbini is the birthplace of Buddha.
• Nepal is landlocked between India and China.
• Eight of the fourteen 8,000m peaks are in Nepal.
• Prayer flags symbolise peace, compassion and wisdom.
• Dal bhat is eaten daily across much of the country.
• Sherpas are world-renowned mountaineers.