Political Overview
Nepal is a federal democratic republic divided into seven provinces, each with its own provincial assembly, and further subdivided into districts and local municipalities. Since the abolition of its monarchy in 2008, the country has worked to stabilize its young political institutions. The federal parliament, consisting of a House of Representatives and a National Assembly, oversees national legislation, while the Prime Minister elected by the House of Representatives serves as head of government. Despite periodic political turbulence and coalition reshuffles, Nepal has made significant strides in consolidating democratic norms, including the peaceful transfer of power and increasing representation of women and marginalized communities in political offices.
Cultural Heritage and Identity
Nepal’s cultural tapestry is woven from more than 120 ethnic groups and over 120 languages, with Nepali serving as the lingua franca. The country’s identity is deeply rooted in its Hindu and Buddhist traditions, exemplified by UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Pashupatinath Temple and the Lumbini birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama. Festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Losar showcase Nepal’s vibrant folk music, dance, and ritual practices, while its artisans are renowned for intricate wood carvings, thangka paintings, and handwoven textiles. This rich cultural heritage not only binds communities internally but also forms the basis of Nepal’s growing cultural tourism.
Geographical Landscape, Area, and Climate
Spanning approximately 147,516 square kilometers, Nepal stretches from the lowland Terai plains in the south (around 60 m above sea level) to the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in the north, including Mount Everest at 8,848 m. Its dramatic elevation gradient means diverse ecosystems from subtropical forests to alpine meadows exist within short distances. The climate varies accordingly: the Terai experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters, while the hilly regions have a temperate climate, and the high Himalayas endure freezing temperatures year-round. Monsoon rains, which typically arrive in June and last until September, are vital for agriculture but also pose challenges in the form of landslides and flooding.
