30+ Lesser-Known Surprising Facts About Nepal You Probably Don’t Know

Lesser Known Facts About Nepal: Nepal is currently seeing a huge wave in youth-led protests as Gen Z, mostly students, are taking to the streets to demand change. The spark? The government's controversial decision to restrict dozens of well-known social media sites, including Instagram, YouTube, WhatsApp and Facebook. Many young people in Nepal saw this as a direct assault on their freedom because they believe that digital connectivity is crucial to their education and voice. The demonstrations swiftly became violent and students even tried to enter the parliament building. In response, police used water cannons, rubber bullets and tear gas.

These clashes have tragically caused at least 19 deaths and hundreds of injuries. Since then, the ban has been lifted, but the violence continues to grow. The protests now encompass more than just social media; they reflect broader dissatisfaction with corruption, unequal power, and a lack of economic opportunity. Nepal is at an important turning point between authoritarian rule and the young people's demands for justice, transparency, and the freedom to express themselves, as the June "Gen Z protests" continue.

Nepal is a very beautiful country situated in the lap of the Himalayan region. Here, we have curated more than 30+ lesser-known, surprising facts about India’s close Himalayan neighbour, Nepal, that you probably don’t know.

Nepal’s History and Geography Facts 

Nepal is the only country with a non-rectangular flag (Image: Canva)

1. Nepal is the region to the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest, at 8,848 meters.

2. It’s the only country with a non-rectangular national flag—two overlapping pennants.

3. Nepal remained a monarchy until 2008, when it officially became a republic.

4. Kathmandu Valley has been continuously inhabited for over 2,000 years.

5. The birthplace of Buddha, Lumbini, is located in southern Nepal.

6. Nepal once had a “living goddess” tradition called Kumari, where a child girl is revered as a deity.

7. The national anthem, "Sayaun Thunga Phool Ka," was adopted in 2007 after a public contest.

8. Nepal is known as the Mayka of Mata Sita, lord Ram’s wife, as she was the princess of Mithila (present day Janakpur, Nepal). 

ALSO READ: Nepal Gen Z Protests LIVE: PM Oli Resigns Amid Violent Protests; Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan Airport Shut

Culture and Traditions Of Nepal

Nepal's culture and traditions (Image: Canva)

9. Nepal has over 120 ethnic groups and 123 known languages.

10. The traditional Newari cuisine includes “Yomari,” a sweet dumpling only made during festivals.

11. Nepal celebrates a festival called Tihar, where dogs are worshipped and revered.

12. The living goddess, Kumari, is chosen from among young girls and worshipped like a deity.

13. Many Nepali Hindus observe both Dashain (Durga worship) and Tihar (lights festival) with equal fervour.

14. Nepal has a rich tradition of masked dances called “Lakhey” performed during festivals.

15. There exists a local tradition of “Jhankri” – traditional shamans who heal through rituals.

Nepal’s Nature and Wildlife 

Nepal's nature and wildlife (Image: Canva)

16. Nepal hosts the elusive snow leopard in its high Himalayas.

17. The dense Terai region is home to Bengal tigers and one-horned rhinoceroses.

18. Chitwan National Park is one of the best places globally for rhino conservation.

19. Nepal is located in one of the Earth’s most earthquake-prone zones.

20. The national bird is the Danphe (Himalayan monal), known for its vibrant plumage.

Cuisine and Foods of Nepal 

Nepal's foods and cuisines (Image: Canva)

21. “Dal Bhat” (lentil soup with rice) is the daily staple for most Nepalis.

22. “Gundruk,” fermented greens, is a traditional dish unique to Nepal.

23. “Sel roti,” a ring-shaped rice doughnut, is popular during festivals.

24. People commonly enjoy “Chyang,” a fermented beverage made from millet or rice.

25. “Momo,” Nepal’s popular dumplings, have Tibetan roots but are now a national favourite.

26. Thukpa: A hearty noodle soup that's popular in the mountainous regions of Nepal, often made with vegetables, meat, or eggs.

27. Jhol Momo: A spicy soup filled with momos (Nepali dumplings), which is a favourite comfort food in Nepal.

28. Gorkhali Lamb: A rich and flavourful stew made with lamb, spices, and sometimes potatoes, originating from the Gorkha region.

ALSO READ: ‘Closely Monitoring Situation’: India’s First Reaction To Nepal Gen Z Protests; Issues Travel Advisory

Miscellaneous Fascinating Facts 

29. Nepal has a tiny piece of coastline—on rare ceremonial occasions, Himalayan pilgrims might splash in the Bay of Bengal.

30. Nepal uses both mountain and tropical climates, from hot lowlands to snowy high ridges.

31. NASA has launched research programs studying the Himalayan glacial retreat from Nepal’s mountains.

32. Nepal shares Mount Everest with China (Tibet region), making it a transnational natural marvel.