9 Fun Facts About Nepal You’ll Love to Discover

When I first learned about Nepal—the land of the world’s highest mountains and the birthplace of Buddha—I imagined reaching the summit of Mount Everest while embracing complete Buddhist serenity, free from all desires.

Though my goals have shifted, Nepal’s significance remains strong. This landlocked South Asian country has left a lasting mark on the world, earning the nickname “World Nepal.”

Here are some key facts about Nepal:

Let’s explore 9 interesting facts about Nepal.

1. Nepal lets you stand at the top of the world

Nepal is a land of superlatives. Despite being a small country, Nepal holds several records that contribute to its high profile on the global stage.

Mount Everest, cloaked in snow, glows under the setting sun.

Here are some of Nepal’s records:

• World’s Highest Point: Mount Everest is the highest point on Earth. The world’s highest peak reaches an elevation of 29,031.7 feet (8,848.86 meters) above sea level.
• World’s Deepest Gorge: The Kali Gandaki Gorge is the deepest gorge in the world, with a depth of approximately 3,900 feet (1,200 meters).
• Nepal’s Highest Lake: Kajin Sara Lake, situated at an altitude of 17,060 feet (5,200 meters), is among the highest lakes in the world.
• Nepal’s Highest Valley: Arun Valley, known for its impressive altitude, is among the highest valleys globally.
• Nepal’s tallest grassland: Chitwan is known for its extensive grasslands.

2. Nepal has the only triangular flag in the world

Nepal is the only country with a triangular flag, featuring two stacked triangles symbolizing the Himalayas. The upper triangle represents the moon, the lower the sun. Adopted in 1962, its design dates back over 2,000 years.

3. The world’s only living goddess resides in Nepal

Nepal is home to the world’s only living goddess, the Kumari. These pre-pubescent girls are seen as divine and live in temples, worshipped by thousands. They retire at puberty or if they fall ill.

A Nepalese Kumari in her traditional makeup and costume.

4. Nepalese people are generally very peaceful

Nepalese people are known for their peaceful nature. Despite its diversity—over 80 ethnic groups, 123 languages, and multiple religions—Nepal has maintained harmony. Its secular constitution guarantees cultural and religious freedom.

5. When you visit Nepal, you’re 56 years ahead in time

Nepal is 56 years and 8 months ahead of countries that use the Gregorian calendar. Nepal uses the Nepal Sambat calendar, also known as the Bikram Sambat calendar. This traditional Hindu calendar is also followed in places like India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka.

Rustic Pathway students jump into the future in Nepal.

6. Kathmandu is Nepal’s living cultural museum

The capital city, Kathmandu, is often called the “Living Cultural Museum of the World” due to its impressive collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Kathmandu Valley alone has seven sites, making Nepal one of the countries with the densest concentration of World Heritage Sites.

Durbar Square in Kathmandu bursts with vibrant colors and lively energy.

Here’s a closer look at some of these sites:

1. Kathmandu Valley: Home to ancient temples, palaces, and courtyards.
2. Lumbini: The birthplace of Siddhartha Gautam (Buddha). This sacred site features the Maya Devi Temple marking Buddha’s birth.
3. Chitwan National Park: A natural heritage site, Chitwan is known for its wildlife, including Bengal tigers and one-horned rhinoceroses.
4. Sagarmatha National Park: Home to Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world.

7. Nepalese Gurkha soldiers are fearless fighters

Gurkhas are elite Nepalese soldiers known for their bravery, discipline, and loyalty. Their motto, “Better to die than be a coward,” reflects their commitment to honor. Since 1815, they have served in the British Army, earning a global reputation for excellence.

8. Nepal is home to eight of the world’s ten tallest mountains

Rustic Pathway students on a trekking experience in Nepal.

Nepal is famous for its mountainous landscape. The country is home to eight of the world’s ten tallest peaks. Topping the list is Mount Everest, which stands at 29,032 feet (8,849 meters).

9. The Royal Geographical Society in London named Mount Everest in honor of Sir George Everest

The Royal Geographical Society (RGS) played a crucial role in the early British expeditions to Mount Everest. Faced with various local names for the mountain, the RGS chose to name it after Sir George Everest, the British surveyor and geographer who served as Surveyor General of India from 1830 to 1843.