Facts Nepal – Essential Travel Facts Before You Go

Updated on Sep 10, 2026
Nepal is truly fascinating — a small country with immense diversity and global significance.
 

Location & Geography

Nepal lies on the southern slopes of the Himalayas, bordered by India and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China.

  • Size: Roughly 800–885 km (500–550 miles) from east to west and 150–250 km (93–155 miles) from north to south.
  • Total area: 147,181–147,516 km²
  • Borders: India (1,751 km) and China (1,236 km).
  • Elevation range: From 60 m above sea level in the Terai plains to 8,848 m at Mount Everest — one of the sharpest altitude variations in the world.

Capital & Population

Kathmandu: The cultural and political heart of Nepal.

Population: About 29.6 million people.

Largest Cities by Population

  • Kathmandu: 3.23 million
  • Biratnagar: 398,000
  • Pokhara: 297,000
  • Bharatpur: 161,000
  • Nepalgunj: 120,000

Currency

Nepalese Rupee: Exchange rate around 1 USD = 151 NPR.

Leadership

  • President: Ram Chandra Poudel
  • Prime Minister: Balendra Shaha

Recent News

Nepal is still reeling from the August 26 glacier collapse that unleashed catastrophic floods and landslides. The disaster has claimed over 1,240 lives, with thousands still missing, and Prime Minister Balendra Shah has emphasized the urgent need for global recognition of the climate change connection.

Despite the tragedy, Nepal’s tourism sector remains largely open. Popular destinations such as Pokhara, Chitwan, Lumbini, and Everest regions are welcoming visitors. The only major exception is Langtang Valley, which suffered severe damage and remains closed for safety reasons.

Geopolitical Importance

Nepal is strategically located between India and China.

It helps limit China’s access to the Gangetic Plain, reinforcing its importance in South Asian geopolitics.

Biodiversity & Ecosystems

Nepal is one of the richest countries in biodiversity, thanks to its varied climate and topography.

Flora & Fauna

  • 2% of the world’s flowering plants
  • 8% of global bird species
  • 4% of mammals
  • 500+ butterfly species
  • 600+ indigenous plants
  • 300+ species of orchids

Culture & Ethnic Diversity

Nepal is a melting pot of over 70 ethnic groups and 71 dialects.

Rich traditions, festivals, and spiritual practices make it a vibrant cultural hub.

Nepal is a country where geography, culture, and politics intertwine in unique ways — from the towering Himalayas to its diverse communities and strategic role in Asia.

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Sep 01, 2026
Baburam Gurung

Nepal Tourism Today