13 Interesting Facts About Nepal

Last Updated: March 12, 2025

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In our 11+ years of journey, FDIP hosted travelers from around the world, most of them visited Nepal. Most of our participants were curious about the facts and history of this country which is a little less known to the world. So, today we are sharing with you some interesting facts about Nepal.

Nestled between two giant nations, India and China, Nepal might look like a small brick-shaped country on the map, but it is a land of immense diversity, culture, and history. From the towering Himalayas to deep valleys, from ancient traditions to thrilling adventure sports, Nepal has something fascinating in every corner.

Today, I want to share with you some of the most interesting facts about Nepal, facts that make this country truly unique. Just like I was amazed while researching, I hope you’ll find them just as intriguing!

1. The Land of the World’s Highest Mountains

Nepal is rightly called the "Land of Mountains" and “Roof of the World”.  Of the 14 highest peaks in the world (above 8,000 meters), eight are in Nepal. These include the legendary Mount Everest (8,848.86 meters) and other giants like Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna. Climbers and adventure lovers from all around the world come here to conquer these breathtaking peaks.

2. Home to the Deepest Gorge in the World

While Nepal is famous for its towering peaks, it is also home to the Kaligandaki Gorge, the second deepest in the world, with a depth of 5,571 meters. This stunning gorge is carved by the Kaligandaki River, running between the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

3. Altitude Variations Like No Other

Nepal is the only country in the world where the altitude ranges from just 59 meters (Kechan Kalan, Jhapa) to 8,848.86 meters (Mount Everest). This vast variation in altitude creates diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests to alpine glaciers. Nepal also has the world’s highest lake, Tilicho Lake (4,919 meters), and the deepest valley, Arun Valley.

4. Birthplace of Lord Buddha

Pic: Mayadevi Temple, Birthplace of Buddha

Nepal holds immense historical and spiritual significance as the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. Lumbini, where Buddha was born, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major pilgrimage destination for Buddhists worldwide.

5. The Only Country with a Triangular Flag

Unlike the rectangular flags of other nations, Nepal’s flag is unique with its two overlapping triangles. These triangles symbolize the Himalayas and the nation’s Hindu and Buddhist traditions, featuring a white moon and a sun.

6. A Land of Brave Gorkhalis

Nepalese warriors, known as the "Brave Gorkhalis," have a legendary reputation. It is said that even Napoleon Bonaparte once admitted, "I am not afraid of anyone, but my heart trembles when I hear the name of a Gorkhali." The British were so impressed by Nepalese fighters that they started recruiting them into the British Army, a tradition that continues today in the British and Indian armies.

7. Home to Some of the World’s Rarest Wildlife

Nepal’s diverse geography supports an incredible range of wildlife. It is home to rare and endangered species like the one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tiger, red panda, snow leopard, and Gharial crocodile. Chitwan and Bardia National Parks are famous for jungle safaris, where tourists can spot these magnificent creatures.

8. A Country with Its Own Calendar

Nepal follows the Bikram Sambat (B.S.) calendar, which is almost 57 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar. Additionally, many ethnic groups have their own traditional calendars, some of which are based on lunar cycles and feature years named after animals and birds.

9. The Myth of the Yeti

Ever heard of the mysterious Yeti? Nepalese locals and Himalayan climbers have long reported sightings of large footprints in the snow, believed to be from the Yeti, a legendary creature said to roam the high mountains. While no concrete evidence exists, the mystery still fascinates explorers and researchers worldwide.

10. A Living Goddess – Kumari

Nepal is one of the few countries where a "Living Goddess" is worshiped. The Kumari, a prepubescent girl chosen from the Newar community, is revered as a goddess in Kathmandu. She is believed to be the incarnation of Goddess Taleju and is worshipped during religious festivals like Indra Jatra.

11. A Land of UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Despite its small size, Nepal boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Kathmandu alone is often called a "Living Cultural Museum" with its seven heritage sites, including Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, and the ancient Durbar Squares.

12. The Sacred Cow and Strict Laws

In Nepal, cows are considered sacred in Hinduism and are the national animal. Killing a cow is a punishable crime, reinforcing the deep respect Nepalese people have for this animal.

13. An Independent Nation with No Independence Day

Unlike many countries that have struggled for independence, Nepal has never been colonized by any foreign power. That’s why Nepal does not celebrate an Independence Day, it has always been a free and sovereign nation!

Final Thoughts

Nepal is more than just a country; it is an experience, filled with history, natural beauty, culture, and traditions that are deeply rooted in its people. From the world's highest mountains to the bravest warriors, from mystical legends to the warm hospitality of its people, Nepal continues to inspire and amaze those who visit or learn about it.

We hope these fascinating facts have given you helpful information about Nepal’s uniqueness. If you ever get a chance to visit, you’ll see that Nepal’s charm goes far beyond these words, it’s a land of wonders waiting to be explored!