A Brief Profile

Nepal is the synonym of the most diverse geographical areas on earth and hence is rich in different nature, pristine landscape, indigenous culture, tradition and religions. Nestled high in the Himalayas between China and India, it has retained its essentially agrarian and medieval character. Its wondrous history and geography are still the defining aspects of everyday life of its people. The mountainous north contains eight of the world's ten highest mountains, including Mt. Everest. On its contrast, the low land in the south is fertile and humid which is heavily urbanized.

Nepal is a country of amazing extremes. In Nepal there are 8 of the world's 10 highest mountains, including Mount Everest, elevation 29, 028 feet. Towering hills above lush valleys gently roll down to the forested plains in which the stately tiger and the unique rhinoceros roam. All this in a country that is, on an average, 120 miles wide. Bound by the Tibet Autonomous Region of China on the north and India on the other three sides, Nepal lies in the temperate zone, but the weather and terrain are greatly influenced by the altitude, which ranges from almost sea level to the highest point on earth.

Nepal 's population of about 20 million consists of many races and tribes, each wearing traditional costumes, and speaking a different dialect or language. All these races and tribes coexist peacefully by embracing Hinduism or Buddhism, the country's two major religions. The harmony in which these various races and tribes exist is one of the remarkable features of Nepal.

Though each ethnic group has its own dialect or language, Nepali is the national language; but almost everyone in the larger cities speaks and understands English. Trained personnel who speak fluent Japanese, German, French, Italian and Spanish are also available.