11 Most Interesting Facts About Nepal You Didn’t Know

We guarantee that at least 20% of the 11 interesting facts about Nepal presented here will astonish and fascinate you. There is enough here to get your brain working at full capacity and to get even the most jaded traveler’s feet itching again. This beautiful country, Nepal, with its endlessly beautiful scenery, charismatic mountains, and stunning lake scenery, has the blessings of nature and many other facts.

11 Most Interesting Facts About Nepal You Didn’t Know

What interesting facts about Nepal have you heard of till now? Being a tiny country that borders huge countries like China and India, Nepal has a lot of interesting facts, and people from other countries have different reactions to hearing them.

Apart from knowing Nepal as “the ceiling of the world,” home to the highest mountain in the world, Nepal has other unique attractions too. Let us discuss the most interesting facts about Nepal you didn’t know.

Deepest, Highest and Largest!

Nepal has some of the most extreme places on Earth, like Tilicho (4,800 meters), the highest lake on Earth, and Arun Valley, the highest valley on Earth. Kaligandaki has the deepest gorges (1,200 meters), and Chitwan has the tallest grasslands in the world.

Do you know
Nepal’s highest point at 8,848.86 meters is Mt. Everest, and lowest point at 59 meters is Kechana Kalan in the Terai plains of Jhapa, .

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Nepal has many UNESCO World Heritage Sites because of its rich cultural and historical heritage. Nepal is home to ancient and medieval cities, temples, monasteries, stupas, palaces, and other historical landmarks that reflect the country’s unique culture and history.

Many of these sites were built during the Malla and Shah dynasties, and some even date back to the Licchavi period, which was between the 3rd and 7th centuries. These sites showcase the traditional architecture, art, and craftsmanship of Nepal, and many of them are still used for religious and cultural events today.

Some of Nepal’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage sites include the Durbar Squares of Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Patan, which are ancient palace complexes with beautiful temples and shrines. The Pashupatinath Temple, which is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Bouddhanath Stupa, which is one of the largest stupas in the world and a center of Tibetan Buddhism, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nepal.

Overall, Nepal’s UNESCO World Heritage sites are an important part of the country’s cultural and historical heritage, and they attract visitors from all over the world who come to experience their beauty and significance.

There are many UNESCO World Heritage sites in Nepal. These sites are recognized for their cultural and natural significance and are considered to be of outstanding universal value to humanity. Here is the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites in Nepal:

• Kathmandu Durbar Square
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square
• Patan Durbar Square
• Changu Narayan Temple
• Swoyambhunath Stupa
• Boudhanath Stupa
• Pashupatinath Temple
• Lumbini – The birthplace of Lord Buddha
• Chitwan National Park
• Sagarmatha National Park

Do you know
This small country have in total 8 Cultural World Heritage Sites and 2 Natural World Heritage Sites

Kumari Goddess: The Living Goddess of Nepal

This could amaze you, knowing that Kumari, the Living Goddess of Nepal, is a unique and revered figure in Nepali culture and religion. The Kumari is a young girl who is worshipped as a living incarnation of the Hindu goddess Taleju.

The Kumari is an important part of Nepali culture and religion, and she is worshipped for her ability to bestow blessings and protect the country. The tradition of the Kumari continues to this day, and there are several Kumari goddesses in Nepal, including the Kumari of Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur.

The selection process for the Kumari is rigorous. The candidates must meet several criteria, including belonging to the Shakya caste, which is considered to be the same caste as the Buddha. The girls must also have certain physical and behavioral characteristics, such as unblemished skin, black hair, and fearlessness. Additionally, the Kumari must be chosen from a family that has never experienced the death of a child, as this is considered a bad omen.

Once selected, the Kumari lives in a palace in Kathmandu, where she is worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists. She wears a traditional red dress and is adorned with gold jewelry and a crown. The Kumari occasionally leaves her palace, and when she does, she is carried in a four-wheeled carriage. Her feet cannot touch the ground, as it is believed that this will harm her divine status.

Do you know
The Kumari, regarded as a living goddess, must not bleed from any injury or natural cause; if she does, she loses her divine status as a living goddess.

Birthplace of Lord Buddha

Lumbini is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered to be one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists around the world. It is believed that Gautama Buddha was born in Lumbini in the 6th century BCE, and the site remains an important destination for Buddhist pilgrims and tourists who come to pay their respects and learn about the life and teachings of the Buddha.

Siddhartha was born in Lumbini, in present-day Nepal, to a wealthy family. According to legend, his birth was accompanied by auspicious signs, and it was predicted that he would become either a great ruler or a great spiritual leader. His father, the king, sheltered him from the harsh realities of life, but one day, Siddhartha left the palace and saw suffering for the first time. This experience inspired him to leave his comfortable life and seek a path to end suffering.

Siddhartha spent several years roaming in India. During his stay, he studied with various spiritual teachers and practiced meditation. Eventually, he developed his own teachings, which became the foundation of Buddhism. He taught that the cause of suffering is attachment and desire and that by following the Eightfold Path, one could achieve enlightenment and end the cycle of rebirth.

Buddha’s teachings and practices have influenced many people around the world, and his philosophy continues to be a major force in many cultures.

Do you know
Lumbini was rediscovered in 1896 by Dr. Fuhrer and Khadga Shumsher Rana, a Nepali scholar. Later, General Kesher Shumsher conducted major excavations at Lumbini between 1933 and 1939.

Unique Nepali Calendar

The unique Nepali calendar is called the Nepali calendar or Bikram Sambat. It is the official calendar of Nepal and is used for both civil and religious purposes. Based on the old Hindu solar calendar, the calendar is about 56.7 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar.

The Nepali calendar has 12 months, with each month consisting of either 29 or 32 days. The year begins in mid-April and ends in mid-April of the following year. The names of the months in the Nepali calendar are based on the ancient Sanskrit language and are different from those used in the Gregorian calendar.

The Nepali calendar is unique because it uses both the moon’s and the sun’s cycles. The major festivals and celebrations in Nepal are based on the lunar calendar, while the civil calendar is based on the solar cycle.

Nepal uses both the Nepali calendar and the Western Gregorian calendar. For official business and to talk to other countries, the Western Gregorian calendar is used. However, the Nepali calendar is still an important part of the country’s religious and cultural traditions.

Do you know
The Nepalese New Year is celebrated in mid-April. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, the length of Nepali months isn’t fixed and can vary each year, ranging from 29 to 32 days.

Nepal has never been colonized

Yes, you heard it right—Nepal was never colonized by any foreign power. Nepal has a long and unique history as an independent country, and it has always maintained its sovereignty and independence. Nepal is strategically located between two major powers: India and China. It has kept its independence through a mix of diplomacy, strategic alliances, and strong military power.

In the 19th century, Nepal was ruled by the Shah dynasty, and the country was isolated from the rest of the world. However, during the 20th century, Nepal opened up to the world, and it became a constitutional monarchy in 1951. Nepal’s government has changed many times over the years. Nepal became a federal democratic republic in 2008.

Nepal is an independent country because of its unique history and culture, such as its location in the Himalayas and its many different ethnic groups. Nepal has had to deal with problems and struggles over the years, but it has always stayed free and independent.

“It’s Better to Die than Cowardice”—The Gurkhas

The quote “Death is Better than Cowardice” is often attributed to the Gurkhas, a group of Nepalese soldiers known for their bravery and loyalty in the British Army. The Gurkhas have a long and distinguished history of military service, dating back to the early 19th century, and have earned a reputation as fierce and dedicated warriors.

For the Gurkhas, the idea of cowardice is deeply shameful, and they would rather die in battle than be seen as weak or cowardly. This belief is rooted in their cultural and religious traditions, which place a high value on honor, courage, and sacrifice.

In practice, this means that Gurkha soldiers are known for their bravery and fearlessness in combat, and they have earned numerous commendations for their heroism in battle. Their motto, “Better to die than be a coward,” reflects this commitment to bravery and courage and has become a symbol of the Gurkhas’ fighting spirit.

Overall, the Gurkhas are respected for their bravery and dedication, and their motto is a powerful reminder of how important courage and honor are when facing danger and difficulty.

Do you know
Gurkhas are known for their bravery and loyalty, and have been awarded 26 Victoria Crosses, including 13 to individual Gurkhas.

Daal-Bhat Power 24 Hours!

“Daal-Bhat Power 24 Hours” is a popular slogan in Nepal that talks about how important the traditional Nepali dish daal-bhat is as a source of energy and food. Daal-Bhat is a simple and nutritious meal that consists of boiled rice (bhat) and lentil soup (daal), often served with a side of vegetables, meat, and pickles.

In Nepal, where physical labor is still a big part of everyday life, the fact that daal-bhat can give you enough energy to work for 24 hours shows how healthy it is. This slogan shows how important daal-bhat is to Nepalese culture and how it is often seen as a complete meal that can keep people going all day.

Daal-bhat is a very important part of Nepali culture and is often served at festivals, weddings, and other important events. It is a sign of what it means to be Nepalese and shows a sense of community and belonging.

In recent years, the popularity of daal-bhat has spread beyond Nepal, with many people around the world recognizing it as a healthy and satisfying meal. As a result, the slogan “Daal-Bhat Power 24 Hours” has become a cultural icon that represents the strength and resilience of the Nepali people and their food.

Do you know
The most accessible meal is undoubtedly “Dal Bhat” (rice & lentil soup). The Nepalese are experts at making it, and it comes with free refills, providing plenty of energy for the next day (Dal Bhat Power 24 Hour). Dal Bhat set is full of rich fibre, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.

The Namaste Tradition

Namaste is a traditional greeting in Nepal and is commonly used throughout the Indian subcontinent. The word “Namaste” is derived from Sanskrit and is a combination of the words “namah” (meaning “bow” or “obeisance”) and “te” (meaning “to you”). It is often translated as “I bow to you” or “the divine in me bows to the divine in you.”

The Namaste tradition is deeply rooted in Nepali culture, where it is a sign of respect and reverence for others. It is usually accompanied by placing one’s hands together in front of the chest, with the fingers pointing upwards, and a slight bow of the head. This gesture is known as the “Namaste pose” or “Namaskar.”

Namaste is used in a variety of settings, from daily interactions with family and friends to formal occasions such as weddings and religious ceremonies. It is also commonly used in yoga and meditation practices as a way of acknowledging the sacredness of each individual.

The Namaste tradition is a reflection of the Nepali value system, which places a high value on respect, humility, and interconnectedness. By acknowledging the divine spark in others, Namaste encourages a sense of unity and connection, regardless of differences in age, status, or background.

In recent years, the Namaste tradition has gained popularity around the world as a way of promoting mindfulness, compassion, and unity. It is now commonly used in a variety of contexts, including in wellness practices, educational settings, and even as a greeting in social media messages.

Do you know
The right hand represents morality, and the left hand represents thought. Joining both hands while doing namaste has spiritual advantages.

Once Upon a Time: The Weed Capital

In the 1960s, Nepal was a hot spot for people who liked to smoke pot. People from all over the globe visited Nepal to light up a joint. Nepal made marijuana illegal in 1973, which broke the chain. Weed is against the law right now, so you can’t buy or sell it. Nepal, on the other hand, has a climate that makes it easy for weeds to grow. This is why they grow everywhere, especially in the countryside, along roads, ditches, farmlands, and mountainsides.

Do you know
Marijuana use is widely accepted in Nepal, and it was freely farmed and attracted Western hippies in the 1960s. After that, Nepal changes the rules and starts promoting adventure tourism as a popular activity in Nepal

8 out of 10 of the world’s highest mountains

Yes, Nepal is home to eight of the ten highest peaks in the world, all of which are above 8,000 meters (26,247 feet) in elevation. These peaks are:

• Mount Everest: 8,848.86 metres (29,031.7 feet)
• K2 (located on the border of Pakistan and China): 8,611 meters (28,251 feet)
• Kangchenjunga: 8,586 meters (28,169 feet)
• Lhotse: 8,516 meters (27,940 feet)
• Makalu: 8,485 meters (27,838 feet)
• Cho Oyu (located on the border of Nepal and Tibet): 8,188 meters (26,864 feet)
• Dhaulagiri: 8,167 meters (26,795 feet)
• Manaslu: 8,163 meters (26,781 feet)
• Annapurna: 8,091 meters (26,545 feet)

Nepal is famous for its Himalayan mountain range, which is home to some of the world’s most stunning and challenging peaks. The country’s rich geography and natural beauty make it a popular destination for mountaineers and trekkers from around the world.

Do you know
The east-central region and the highest section of the Himalayan mountain range stretch about 500 miles (800 km) from the Kali River to the Tista River in south-central Asia. This portion of the Nepal Himalayas covers 15% of the country’s total area.