Nepal is a country of rich socio-cultural diversity. Concentrating upon particular geographic pockets or regions, 23.2 million people of more than 60-caste or ethnic groups are peacefully living in the country. Diversity in terms of ethnicity, language, cultures and religion and harmony as well as peaceful coexistence are the characteristic feature of Nepalese society. From the very early period the migrants from the east, the north and the south entered the land and settled there with the natives. They are the Nepalese people ethnically, all native Nepalese representing different group fall either in Indo-Aryan or Tibeto-Burman family. The Bramhins, Kshytriyas, Newars, Tamangs, Thakuris, Tharus, Dhimals, Yadavs, Rais, Limbus, Sherpas, Gurrungs, Magars, Thakalis are some of the major sects of Nepalese Society.

Nepalese people by nature are religious followers and religious rituals are part of their daily life. Though Hinduism is declared as a state religion, harmony and coexistence among the different religions is an outstanding example everfound. According to the 1991 census figure, 86 % of the total population are Hindus, 7.8% are Buddhists, 3.5% are Muslims and 2.2 % are Jain, Christian and others.

Nepal is a multilingual Kingdom. Nepali is the lingua franca of the country and is written in Devnagari. Maithili, Tharu, Newari, Bhojpuri, Gurrung, Tamang, Rai, Limbu, Magar, Bhote and so on are other languages spoken in the country. English is spoken and understood by people in most urban centers.

Nepal is a country of rich cultural heritage. Unique culture inherited from the ancient days is deeply rooted in the way of life of the Nepalese people. Nepal has maintained one of the world's oldest and richest continious cultures. Her culture finds exquisite expressions in a number of fields such as religion,, art and music, social and socio-religious festivals, temples, pagodas, shrines, intricate wood carvings, bronze and stone sculptors of great beauty represent the heritage of world fame. Festivals are prominent features of Nepalese life . Dasain (Durga Puja) Tihar (Festival of Lights), Shivaratri (in honour of Lord Shiva), Baishak Purnima (to homage to Lord Buddha), and a host of other festivals are celebrated throughout the year.

Festivals in Nepal (under construction)

    Tihar - The Festival of Lights (click here to read more)