Location and Size
Nepal, a landlocked country, is located in southern Asia, bordered by China to the north and India to the east, west, and south. Its approximate dimensions are 880 kilometers (547 miles) along its Himalayan axis and 150 to 250 kilometers (93 to 155 miles) across. With an area of 147,516 km2 (56,956 sq mi), Nepal is home to a diverse range of landscapes.
Geographic Regions
Nepal is divided into three main geographic regions:
- Terai: A lowland region along the southern border with India, covering 17% of Nepal's area and characterized by flat lands with some hill ranges.
- Hilly: A mountainous region between the Terai and the Himalayas, encompassing 68% of the country's area. It is inhabited by various indigenous ethnic groups and has significant agricultural lands.
- Himal: A mountainous region containing snow-capped peaks, including Mount Everest, the world's highest. It covers 15% of Nepal's area.
Climate and Biodiversity
Nepal experiences eight climate zones, ranging from tropical to perpetual snow. The majority of the population resides in the tropical and subtropical zones. The country is home to a wide range of biomes, including tropical savannas, subtropical and temperate forests, montane grasslands, and shrublands.
Rivers and Water Resources
Nepal has three categories of rivers: large systems that originate in the Himalayas, second category rivers that rise in the Middle Hills and Lower Himalayan Range, and third category rivers that originate in the Siwalik foothills. These rivers are prone to flooding and pose challenges to transportation and communication networks.
Forests and Land Use
Forests cover 39.09% of Nepal's land area, followed by agriculture areas at 29.83%. The Hill region has significant cultivated lands and natural vegetation. Deforestation is a major issue in Nepal due to over-harvesting of firewood, illegal logging, and agricultural expansion.
Environmental Issues
Nepal faces several environmental challenges, including:
- Natural hazards such as earthquakes, floods, and landslides
- Deforestation and loss of biodiversity
- Contaminated water and air pollution
Interesting Facts
- Nepal's population of approximately 30 million is among the most ethnically diverse in the world.
- The country has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Stone Age.
- Buddhism and Hinduism are the dominant religions in Nepal, and the country is home to many sacred sites for both faiths.
- Mount Everest, the world's highest mountain, is located in Nepal and remains a popular destination for mountaineers and tourists.