Nepal is a landlocked nation in South Asia, with the Himalayan mountain range runs across its north and western regions. Eight of the world's ten highest mountains, including the highest, Mount Everest, are situated in Nepal.
Quick Facts
The crimson/red color is a traditional Nepalese color and the blue outlined edge represents the country's peaceful nature. The two triangular portions of the Nepalese flag represent the Himalayan Mountains and the two main religions of the nation - which are Buddhism and Hinduism. The moon and sun originally represented the royal family and the prime minister's family, the Rana family. They also represent the country's desire to live as long as the sun and moon.
| Capital | Kathmandu (largest city) |
| Denomyn | Nepali |
| Area | 147,181 sq. km |
| Population | 29.5 million |
| GDP | US$1,500 per capita |
| Currency | Rupee (NPR) See approximate exchange rate |
| Time Zone | GMT+5.45 |
| Calling code | +977 and add "1" for call to Kathmandu |
| Religion | Hinduism - 80.6% Buddhism - 10.7% Islam - 4.2% Mundhum - 3.6% Christianity - 0.5% Others - 0.4% |
Kathmandu, Nepal
Kathmandu, the capital and the largest city of Nepal, is situated in the northwestern part of Kathmandu Valley that also includes two other ancient cities - Patan and Bhaktapur. Kathmandu stands at an elevation of approximately 4,500 ft and is inhabited by about 700,000 people. Kathmandu is the most developed city in Nepal.
The Kathmandu Valley covers an area of 218 sq. miles. It is situated at 1336m above the sea level. Bagmati, Bishnumati, Dhobikhola, and Tukucha rivers wind through the city. Tribhuvan International Airport is located about 6 km from the city center, offering domestic and international flights.
Kathmandu is home to most of the government offices, embassies, corporate houses, and the palace. The King's Palace stands right next to Thamel - the tourist hub of the country. Thamel consists of two parallel streets just to the west of the palace. It is home to different hotels, ranging from different stars. The palace is at the head of Durbar Marg, a street lined with various shops. Most of the streets in Kathmandu are named from Nepal Bhasa, owing its origin to the rich Newari Culture and heritage.
The holy stupas of Swayambhunath and Boudhanath are located in Kathmandu. Both are among the holiest sites in Nepal.
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