Nepal is the land of vibrant culture, the world's highest mountains, stunning alpine lakes, exotic flora, and numerous endangered animals. Situated between two Megacities, India and China, Nepal is a small landlocked country spread in 147,181 sq. km. Nepal has got a unique geographical distribution.
The country is divided into three regions; the plains- Terai, the hills- Hilly, and the mountains- Himalayas. The elevation ranges from 700 meters all the way up to the world's highest point 8,848 meters. Likewise, the country has six climatic zones ranging from subtropical to the arctic zone.
Some facts about Nepal:
- Nepal covers 0.1% of the total landmass of the earth
- It is home to 876 species of birds, almost 8% of the world birds population
- It is home to 2% of the world's flowering plants, over 600 indigenous plant families, and 319 species of exotic orchids
- It is home to around 208 mammals, 651 butterflies, 118 amphibians, 78 reptiles, and 187 fish species
It is home to the world's deepest gorge- Kali Gandaki Lake, the world's highest lake- Kajin Sara Lake (5,020 m), and the world's highest mountain- Mt. Everest (8,848 m), the birthplace of the disciple of peace- Gautam Buddha, and the country of living goddess- Kumari
Nepal is a beautiful country. It is home to 125 ethnic groups, 123 languages, and ten different religions. Famous for its stunning Himalayan mountains, breath-taking trekking trails, rich cultural heritage, exotic wildlife, and the world's highest expeditions, Nepal is a haven for travel lovers. The country also boasts some of the best white water rafting experience, thrilling mountain flights, paragliding, bungee jumping, mountain biking, and many other outdoor activities.
List of highest mountains in Nepal:
- Mt. Everest (8,848 m) - 1st highest mountain in the world
- Mt. Kanchenjunga (8,586 m) - 3rd highest mountain in the world
- Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m) - 4th highest mountain in the world
- Mt. Makalu (8,463 m) - 5th highest mountain in the world
- Mt. Cho Oyu (8,201 m) - 6th highest mountain in the world
- Mt. Dhaulagiri (8,167 m) - 7th highest mountain in the world
- Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m) - 8th highest mountain in the world
- Mt. Annapurna (8,091 m) -10th highest mountain in the world
Likewise, there are over 1,300 peaks above 6,000 meters in Nepal. The Nepal government has opened 400 peaks for the expedition.
Along with adventure and thrill, Nepal also offers tranquillity and laid back travel experience. In every adventure, there will be certain cultural and natural aspects, and this is what makes travelling in Nepal different from any other country. The hospitality is top-notch, either you stay in a five-star hotel or a lodge on the trail. Locals here are friendly and welcoming.
The entire country is decorated with terraced fields, farming lands, rolling green hills, rivers, streams, lakes, waterfalls, caves, and lush forests. Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal, where all tourist lands are. Thamel is the heart of the tourist hub in Kathmandu. You will see people from all over the world here. The hustle and bustle of this city has a completely different vibe.
All around the city, you can see temples. That's why Kathmandu is also known as the City of Temples. There are seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kathmandu itself. While visiting these monuments, you will get to know the architecture, art, history, beliefs, and practices of the Nepali people.
In the remote areas, locals still practice Shamanism, Pan Animism, and witchcraft. Temples and shrines are full of devotees burning butter lamps, singing hymns, playing the drums/traditional instruments, and chiming temple bells.