Nepal

Capital City: Kathmandu

Population: Approx.27.6 million

Country dialing code: 977

Country Overview

The Kingdom of Nepal is a landlocked country situated between India and China's Tibetan Autonomous region. The Himalayas fall within the country's boundaries, thus Nepal is well known for its mountainous and hilly topography.

Nepal encompasses 147181 km of land in a rough rectangular shape and is comparable in size to Arkansas. Despite its small size, Nepal's geography is very diverse from its lowest point in Kechana Kalan (Jhapa District) of 70 m above sea level to its highest point at Mount Everest of 8 848 m. In the northern reaches of Nepal you will find the temperatures can be below -40C. In the Terai region the summer temperatures can range up to 40C, a large variation. Monsoon clouds cover Nepal in June, July and August.

Topography

Himalayas: The Himalayan mountain range creates Nepal's border to the north. This region incorporates 16% of the country's land. Located in the region you will discover the world-renowned Mount Everest as well as Kanchenjunga (measuring 8598 m) and Dhaulagiri (measuring 8137 m). Vegetation in this area is limited and ends at 4500 m.

The Hills: The Hills region takes in 65% of Nepal's land area and holds the country's capital – Kathmandu. Elevations range greatly in the area from about 500 m above sea level to around 3000 m above sea level. Summer temperatures in the Hills averages at 32C and winters reach a chilly -1C

The Terai: The Terai region makes up 17% of the country's land area. The region is ideal for agriculture with the flat lands reaching between 100 m and 300 m above sea level. Within the Sub-tropical forest areas and marshes an abundance of wildlife can be found including rare species such as the Royal Bengal tiger, gharial crocodile and one-horned rhino.

Climate

There are four seasons:

• Spring: March-May
• Summer: June-August
• Autumn: September-November
• Winter: December-February
• Monsoon: End of June to the middle of September.

Religion

The main religions practiced are Hinduism and Buddhism. However, besides these two dominant religions, Islam, Christianity, and Bon are also practiced here.

Language

Nepali is the main language spoken. However, English is spoken widely across the country.

Currency

Nepalese Rupee.

Electricity

230 Volts.

Electric Plug

Two or Three Round Prongs. Not flat prongs as found in use in the United States or in other countries. If your electronic uses 110 Volts, you will need a voltage converter.