Nepal is a landlocked country in South Asia. To the north lies Tibet, Autonomous Region of the People's Republic of China, and India is on all other sides. The Himalaya mountain range runs across Nepal's northern parts, and eight of the world's 14 highest mountains, including the highest, Mount Everest, are within its territory.
Nepal came to be in its present form after unification by Prithvi Narayan Shah on December 21, 1768. The Shah dynasty, originated at Gorkha, a district south-west of present capital Kathmandu, ruled the nation for 239 years and eight months. Before 2006, Nepal was called a kingdom and the only nation in the world. On May 28 at 23:25 NST, the newly elected constituent assembly declared it to be the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal.
Its recent history has involved struggles for democratic government with periods of direct monarchic rule. From 1995 until 2006, Nepal suffered from a civil war between government forces and Maoist guerrillas of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist). As a part of a peace process to end civil war and restore democracy, on May 18, 2006, Nepal was declared a secular state by the Interim Parliament of Nepal. On December 28, 2007, the interim parliament passed a bill and declared Nepal to be a federal democratic republic. The first meeting of the constituent assembly implemented that declaration on May 28, 2008.
Populated by more than 60 ethnic groups united by the norms and values of the country of the most hospitable people with their unforgettable greeting of NAMASTE.
Different ages stand face in the form of the historians, towering mountains tempt the mountaineers, trekkers and sight seers and thrill the adventurous, tumbling and rushing rivers challenge the rafters; biodiversity attract researchers and common people alike, ethnic, social and culture structures attract those interested in the human affairs; tranquility of the country as a whole captivates those who meditate in peace. In short, Nepal has something to offer to everyone.
Contents[hide]
1 Location and area
2 Geographical Features
3 Climate and Rainfall
4 Historical Sketch
5 The people
6 Religion and Culture
7 Interesting notes
8 Religion
9 Hindu cast system and customs
10 References
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Location and area
Stretched east to west in the southern slopes of the Himalayas, Nepal is a small landlocked country located between 260 22” and 300 27” north latitude and 800 4” and 880 12” east longitude. Shaped almost like a rectangle, it borders with People’s Republic of China in the north and India in east, west and south. Breadth varies from 145 to 241 kilometers north-south.
Geographical Features
Land of lofty Himalayas and deep valleys, fertile Tarai and green hills, stumbling rivers and lakes, tropical heat and piercing chill, dense forest and vast grass lands, dazzling sunshine and dark caves, torrential rain and prickly sun, colorful merry festivals and calm severe meditatiob – Nepal is a country of extremes.Most diverse contrasts are found in the small stripe of land with the average length of 550 miles and average width of 120 miles. A few kilometers north of the lush green Tarai and the tropical forests, there are beautiful green hills and a few kilometers north to it there are mighty, majestic and lofty Himalayas, the abode of snow. One need not travel much to face different climatic genes.
This, as a whole creates the most congenial environment for bio-diversity. As a result, the most beautiful birds of the world, the majestic tigers, mighty elephants, trundling rhinos, death emitting cobras, rare musk deer, snow leopards, Himalayan panda and many other species co-exist with the amazingly large number of plants varieties.
The country can be tentatively divided into three geographical regions running east to west: • The Himalayan region • The Mountain Region and • The Tarai Region
1. The Himalayan Region:
This region covers the mountain range whose altitude starts from 4,877 meters up to 8848 meters above the sea-level. Along with Sagarmatha (Mt Everest), the region includes eight of the 14 peaks of the world which exceed the altitude of 8,000 meters above the sea-level. They are (a) Mount Everest (8848m.), (b) Mt Kanchenjungha (8586m.), (c) Mt Lhotse (8516m.), (d) Mt Makalu (8463m.), (e) Mt Cho Oyu (8201m), (f) Mt Dhaulagiri (8167m) (g) Mt Manaslu (8163m) and (h) Mt Annapurna 1 (8091m)
With sparse human habitation, most of the areas have a wild landscape. Undisturbed tranquility of the nature rules over the land.
2. Mountain Region:
This area lies between 610m to 4,877 m above the sea-level and accounts for nearly 64 percent of total land area of the country. Along with the Mahabharata and Churia mountain ranges, this region has many longitudinal fertile valleys formed by principal rivers. Kathmandu valley is also situated in this region. This broad hill complex region is extensively cultivated and has been the area of traditional Nepalese settlement since long back.
3. Tarai Region:
This region forms a low flat land belt and includes the most fertile land and dense forest areas of the country. It accounts for 17 percent of the total land area of the country; it has the width of 26 to 32 kilometers and its altitude does not exceed 305 meters above the sea level.
Nepal is also divided into five development regions:
(1) Central Region (Madhyamanchal) (2) Eastern Region (Purwanchal) (3) Far-Western Region (Sudur Pashchimanchal) (4) Mid-Western Region (Madhya Pashchimanchal) (5) Western Region (Pashchimanchal)

Climate and Rainfall
The climate of the country is not uniform in all the regions. It varies from region to region. In Tarai, summer and late spring temperatures range around 400 C. Autumn and Spring temperatures runs somewhere around 280 C. In winter, temperature in the Tarai varies from 230 C to 70C. While the central valleys experience average maximum temperatures of 120C and minimum temperature below the freezing point. At higher elevations, much colder temperature prevails. Kathmandu valley experiences a very pleasant and equable climate with average summer and winter temperatures of 270 C to 190 C and 200 C to 100 C, respectively.
Historical Sketch
Though the history of Nepal as a modern nation is of recent past, the history of its people dates back to centuries. Nepal has a long and a glorious past, traced back to thousands of years before the birth of Christ. However, scientifically reliable documents that are available now date back only to the 5th century AD, when the Lichhchavis ruled the kingdom. We have to be content with various legends about the earlier periods until more authentic documents are found. Legends say that the very first dynasty to rule the valley of Kathmandu was Gopala dynasty ousted by the Abhiras, in turn, were chased away by the Kiratas. Then came the rulers of Lichhavi dynasty, improving the economy and making great contribution for the development of the art of building temples, images and palaces. Remains of temples, palaces and images of the period are found scattered in the valley of Kathmandu and some of them are renovated.
After the Lichhavi period, another important era in Nepalese history is the Malla dynasty, that came to the power in around 13th century AD. Innumerable temples, palaces, idols and carvings that are preserved in the valley, speak of the excellence in art and architecture during that period.
In addition, a famous Malla King Jayasthity Malla introduced some social systems and practices, which were re-formative of that time. However, after the death of Yakshaya Malla, the country was divided, followed by a state of anarchy that paved the way for its eventful unification by King Prithivi Naryan Shah, the Great, of Gorkha.
After Prithivi Naryan Shah ascended the throne of Gorkha, events in the history took a different turn. He conquered various warring principalities and laid the foundation of modern Nepal. Around 1767 AD he was reigning over the territories which more or less constitute the boundaries of present Nepal. After Prithivi Naryan Shah, the campaign of unification was given continuity by his younger son Bahadur Shah and was launched once again by the Prime Minister Bhimsen Thapa. However, the expansion came to a halt when Nepal came into conflict with British India Company and signed the treaty of Sugauli in March 1816 AD.
Another crucial chapter of history began after the emergence of Janga Bahadur Rana to power in 1846 AD. He established himself as the most powerful Prime Minister of the country or as a de factor ruler and made the Prime Ministership as hereditary. Till today, his descendents write their surname as JBR.
The revolution of 1950 brought an end to the autocratic Rana regime and democratic system was introduced. Multiparty parliamentary system was practiced for some years but the system came to an end when King Mahendra imposed party-less Panchayat system in 1960 AD. The democratic movement of 1990 reinstated the multi party and democratic constitution of the kingdom was promulgated on Nov 9, 1990.
Now Nepal is a stalwart of global peace and disbarments. Nepal is a member of the UN and the founding member of South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
The people
Nepal’s population of about 25 million is ethnically complex. Census taken by the Central Bureau of Statistics states that there are 61 (presently 59) ethnic groups of people, speaking different dialects. However, most of the ethnic groups can be broadly divided into two groups: Indo-Aryans or Indo- Nepalese and Tibeto Mongolians or Tibeto Nepalese. Historically, the people of the former group entered the territory of Nepal during the period of Muslims conquest in the Indian sub-continental and the latter came to Nepal across the Himalayas passes from the North and they inhabited the Himalayan valleys and slopes. The Rais, Limbus, Gurung and Tamang, who belong to the later group make-up the well-known troops of the Gurkhas.
There are some other relativity smaller ethnic groups which are the aboriginals of the country. They are Austric and Dravidan. In addition, there are many nomadic tribes in the hills and Tarai who have now submitted to the agrarian system.
All these Nepalese people are friendly, kind and hospitable irrespective of the differences in the religion faith, ethnicity and culture.
Language
Nepali is the official language and the major lingua franca. However, many other languages are spoken in the country. For the majority of the population, Nepali is the mother tongue and Maithali, Bhojpuri, Tamang and Newari follow it. In addition to these languages, many other languages and dialects are spoken in the country.
Religion and Culture
Hindus account for about 89.5 percent and Buddhists for 5.3% of the total population. The Muslim population is 2.7 percent, the Jains 0.1 percent and Christians and others comprise 0.23 percent.
Nepal also has unique religious combination. All sects co-exist adopting universal brotherhood. This is manifested in the act of worshiping common deities and celebrating festivals belonging to different religious groups. Hindus and Buddhists visiting the same places of pilgrimage is not rare sight in Nepal. This serves as a fine example of fellow feeling.
Broadly speaking, culture of a society is the summation of all the achievements that receive the form of heritage. In other words, it includes all the things that plays role in the making of the collective mental structure and value system. Culture encircles all the things that are related with life: religion, philosophy, creative movements, art, music and so on.
Nepali way of life has a long and uninterrupted tradition. Nepali culture is one of the most ancient cultures of the world. It has a unique place in the history of world civilization. The other important aspect of the Nepali culture is that it is culture of the various races dwelling within the territory of the kingdom. Many anthropologists and even lay-men are interested in Nepali culture because it offers an interesting of culture pluralism.
While observing the unbroken tradition, it becomes necessary to study the factors responsible for the preservation of the culture. Physical isolation of the kingdom is considered to be the most important of all other factors. The dense forest of the Tarai and the difficult mountains of the Himalayas isolate the kingdom with the rest of the world. As a result, the kingdom was not ravaged by frequent foreign invasions and was unknown to the foreigners in the past. Nepalese people enjoyed a state of undisturbed peace throughout most of Nepali history. Hinduism and Buddhism have taken a course of undisturbed growth and development in Nepal.
What Nepal borrowed from India kept on growing and developing in congenial environment in Nepal whereas the same heritages had to face shattering invasions in India. For example, Nepal Buddhism survived owing to Nepal’s physical isolation from Indian landmass. Monastic character of Buddhism was weakening in India. This process was brought near extinction by the revitalization of Hinduism and later it was brought near extinction by the hordes of Muslim invaders pouring down from central Asia into northern India in the 13th century. Many Buddhists scholars and preachers fled to the safe territories of Nepal and continued their religious practices. The kingdom’s remoteness made it a safe heaven. Buddhism in Nepal, however, lost its monastic form in the traces of the Buddhism India of the historic time. Pagoda style that was replaced by other styles in India was still used in building temples in Nepal in the 17th century.
Another salient feature we have mentioned earlier is the harmony in diversity. What we now call Nepali culture, is the combination of most diverse of cultures and traditions. The most remarkable thing about the combination is the absence of discordance, rather great forces of synthesis. Hinduism can be taken as a good example of such processes. Deities such as Ganesh (described by the Hindu scriptures as the elephant headed son of Lord Shiva and Parvati), Bhairava (the Hindu deity representing Lord Shiva’s destructive force), Kumari (the living Goddess), Saraswoti (the Goddess of learning and arts), Vajrajogini and Mahakali are worshiped by the Hindus, Buddhists and many other religious groups here. There are common rituals practiced by Hindus and Buddhists. They have now lost the sectarian distinctiveness. For example, practitioners of both the religious take part in Machhendranath Rath Jatra, the chariot procession of Machhenranath, who is described as `Bodhisatwa. “Avalokiteswora Padmini” is worshipped by the Buddhists and as Gorakhnath’s preceptor Machhendranath by the Hindus.
Another significant aspect about Nepali culture is the amalgamation of Tibetan and Indian culture. Such amalgamation is the result of the intermediary position occupied by Nepal in the historic times. The passes of Kyrong and Kuti to the northwest and northeast of the kathmandu valley had been the easiest routes to Tibet since the ancient times. The merchants and the cultural entrepreneurs of Nepal, Tibet and India used the routes regularly until 1907 AD. Some historian is to the opinion that Tibeto- Nepali relations first started during the reign of Srong-tsan-sgam-po, who introduced the system of dynastic rules and laid the foundation of Buddhism in Tibet. Legends considered to have been invented around the 10th century state that he married the Nepali princess, Bhrikuti, who took with her things related with Buddhism as nuptial gifts.
Furthermore, historical records show that a number of scholars and preachers visited Tibet via Nepal. Taranath, the Tibetan historian, who visited India in the 17th century mentions about Vasubandhu (a great Yogacara philosopher of the 14th century) visiting Nepal. Similarly historical records also show that preachers such as Naropa, Darika, Ratnaraksita, Milarepa and many others visited Tibet via Nepal. Some of those preachers were believed to have played important role in the establishment of ka-guy-pa sect of Lamaistic Buddhism in Tibet. The name of the famous Nepali artist and architect A-ni-ko visited Tibet, was invited to the imperial palace of China and was honored by the emperor himself for his great skill. Chinese history verifies established fact of the history that coins of Tibet were minted in Nepal. The change of style in Nepali art during the Malla period is believed to be the result of such relationship. Tibetan influence is believed to be the force behind the emergence of new styles in thanka paintings and bronze casting in Nepal.
Interesting notes
Having described in brief, some of the distinctive features of Nepali culture, we proceed now to describe historical and geographical aspects of Nepali culture. It is necessary to know the culture prevailing in the different periods of history and the history of Nepal’s geographical territories.
Foundations of the modern Nepal were laid in the 18th century by King Prithivi Narayan Shah. He is the one to start national unification campaign, continued by Bahadur Shah that culminated in the emergence of the modern Nepal. This process of unification brought about the political bond among different regions, which were in a way related with one another through cultural bonds. Cultural bonds are of great significance because they existed even before political unification. The flourishing culture of Kathmandu valley was a centripetal force. Surrounding areas, roughly equaling the territories of the modern Nepal, were very much influenced by valley culture, which is popular for its uninterrupted development. The land is glorified in various writings such as ‘Nepal Mahatmya’ ‘Pashupati Puran’ and ‘Swoyambhu Puran’, that were composed in Sanskrit in around 14th or 15th century. These chronicles, in a way, describe how the valley became habitable and how it saw the first dawn of civilization. The chronicles say that the valley was a big lake in the beginning. In the middle of the lake bloomed a huge lotus that heralded the emergence of Adi Buddha (the primordial Buddha). Later the lake was drained off by Manjushree (some Hindu scriptures say that all the work was done by Krishna). The chronicles further say that the mortal Buddha’s preceding Shakyamuni visited the valley and built pillars in Patan (the pillars are described in the chapter dealings with ‘Pilgrimage’). Although the authenticity of the facts presented by the chronicles is open to questions, they unfailingly show the fact that the valley was regarded as an important place by most of the people dwelling in the region.
Dealing with the spatial aspect of Nepali culture, two historical principalities must be mentioned here. They are Mithila and Kapilvastu. Mithila, whose kingdom was Videha came into focus when the valley was supposed being ruled by the Kirati dynasty. The state was at the peak of its eminence during the reign of King Janak, whose daughter Sita was married to Ram, the hero of the epic Ramayana. Some of the persons described by the chronicles and other literary works can be fictional characters. However, Buddhists literature found in Nepal describes Videha as a member of the Vriji confederacy. This establishes that Mithila was also not out of touch with the valley civilization.
Now, let us consider the Lumbini-Kapilvastu region. Lord Buddha was born in 563 BC in Kapilvastu where he spent 29 years of his life as a prince of the Shakya dynasty. In this period, Kaulya, Malla and Lichhavi dynasties were ruling in the neighboring states. Buddha himself is said to have visited the valley. Authenticity of such description is yet to be established. However, it is well established fact of the history that Malla and Lichhavi rulers of the Indian states in the neighborhood of Kapilvastu and many other Buddhists fled to Nepal upon invasions into their states. It suggests that Nepali culture of the period attracted them.
The penetration of Indo-Aryan culture is believed to have continued for long. The process is found to have been stronger during the Lichhavi period, the earliest historically known period of the ancient Nepal. The convergence of different cultures into the mainstream took place. The religion, art, architecture social structure, politics and the social conventions of the periods bear the strong marks of the process of synthesis. The traces of such amalgamation, even with Tibeto- Burman culture can be found in the modern Newari culture too.
After the Lichhavi dynasty was ousted, Thakuri dynasty came into power in around 750 AD and it continued to rule Nepal until 1200 AD. Kathmandu valley was ruled by the Mallas who were defeated by Prithivi Narayan Shah in 1967-69 A.D. The Malla period also did not remain untouched from the influence of Indian states. The descendants of Nanyadev, who found Tirhut kingdom in around 1090, came to the valley later and occupied significant position in the Malla courts. Brahmins of Maithali were believed to have been brought here in the same period to work in the temples of Nepal. Contributions of the Mallas are noteworthy because Nepali art forms found new mediums such as bronze, painting and wood-work during that period.
Prithivi Narayan Shah’s conquest over the valley begins a different chapter of Nepali culture. It brought about the synthesis of the culture of Baise Raj (the confederation of 22 states) and Choubise Raj (the confederation of 24 states) which had roots in the culture of Khasa Kingdom of the Karnali and Gandaki region. Khasa kingdom with its capital as Sinja and Dallu were strong in 12th to 14th century. Significant part of the population of the region moved towards east and made several attempts to conquer the valley. The attempts failed then but their desire to get on with the valley civilization was fulfilled after Prithivi Narayan Shah succeeded in defending the Malla Kings of the valley. The defeat, however, was different in many respects. The culture contributed to enrich Nepali culture. The significant thing about the assimilation is that the language of Khasa and the valley culture with some modifications started growing together.
Having presented an introduction to Nepali culture, we proceed to describe some of the constituents of Nepali culture:
Religion
Religion is one of the factors that determine the way of the life. Religion has great significance in Nepal because it is the motivating force behind many activities of the Nepalese people. Religious philosophies and religious practice in Nepal are unique in the world. Tolerance in religion is one of the most remarkable features of Nepali culture. Nepal never witnessed religious riots.
Although Nepal is a small country, almost all the influential religions of the world exist here. However Hinduism was the state religion of the country and was known as the only Hindu kingdom of the world until recently. Majority of the people are Hindus. Buddhism and Islam come in the second and third position respectively. Most of those other religious sects, followed by ethnic groups, however, have the form of animism. They believe in a host of sprits or super natural beings, which are worshiped by those members of the community who are considered to have the power and skill for offering worships. Persons having the art of communicating with the super natural beings get respected in the ethnic communities. Such communities, however, do not make attempts to be different from the Hindus nor do the Hindus try to prove them non-Hindus. In fact, majority of the members of such communities takes part in the Hindu rituals and rites in one way or the other.
The followers of Hinduism can be roughly divided into three groups. They are: the Nepali speaking Hindus of the hills, the Maithili, Bhojpuri and Awadhi speaking groups of the Tarai and the Newars of Kathmandu.
They all differ in customary practices, however, they have indisputable arrangement as regard to broader philosophical aspects of the religion. Such philosophical aspects are sustained by Vedas and Purans (religious scriptures).
Historians fail to give the exact date of the beginning of the Hindu religion in Nepal. However, there is a common belief that the Hindu penetration began right from the period when Vedas and Purans were composed in India. When we see the earliest historically known period of Nepal we find both the religions, Hinduism and Buddhism, to be equally strong and influential. Historical records of the Lichhchavi period show that Hindu rites and rituals were performed with the Brahmans well veered in Vedas and Purans. Those Brahmans do not seem to be different from the Brahmans of Gupta period in India. This Brahminic tradition was again strengthened by Jayasthiti Malla during the Malla period. Many religious acts are performed in the guidance of Parbate and Newar Brahmans even to this date. They had, and still have in many cases the unchallenged monopoly in the fields of astrology and medicine as well.
Buddhism is another important religion of the kingdom. As mentioned earlier, Nepal preserved the religion when it was in the verge of extinction in India. However, Buddhism took a different turn when it got changed as a result of its contact with Hinduism (all the changes may not have resulted from the contact). The main changes are: the loss of monastic order, the installation of the common deities and the celebration of many festivals in collaboration with the Hinduism.
From Lichhchavi period, Buddhism in Nepal had been Mahayanistic in it’s philosophical doctrines and theistic practices.
The ultimate goal of Mahayana is the salvation of the entire world through the attainment of Buddhahood. The other branch, Hinayana, on the other hand seeks the personal salvation. Mahayana is backed by the Madhyamika philosophy of Sunyata. This philosophy postulates the idea that the entire phenomenal world is a void. Another branch, Vajrayana was development later. Indrabhuti was the beginner of this sect. He reinterpreted the concept of void postulating the idea that the void changes into the experience of the eternal consciousness after the attainment of enlightenment. According to him, to experience Sunyata in this manner is to follow the ‘adamantine path’ or ‘adamantine vehicle’. The principal treaties of Vajrayana, whose symbol is Vajra or thunderbolt, are Guhyasamaj and Manjusri Mulkapala. These treaties give account of the basis of the various aspects of the religious sect. Furthermore, they describe the original Tathagata (Adi Buddha or primordial Buddha), five Dhyani Buddhas and the whole range of Vajrayana pantheon.
The latest phase of the development of Buddhism is dominated by tantras. The tantras do not depart from the basic principles of Buddhism but they emphasize the possibility of the attainment of Buddhahood through the performance of different rituals. According to this sect, there is a procedure on the way to the attainment of Buddhahood. The procedure includes the recitation of mantras (syllables considered to have mystical and magical power), the display of mudras (hand gestures considered to have cosmic significance), and the use of Mandalas (ritual diagrams depicting the positions of the cosmic bodies and deities). Various tantric treaties are composed making one or the other deity center of the cosmic bodies. However, the chief goal presented by the treaties of all types is the attainment of Buddha hood.
Practice of tantras seems to be mystic. Only those with special training can conduct such practices. The most interesting thing about such practices in that the practitioners meditate supposedly in the form of Buddha for the attainment of Buddha hood. Along with practices include the mode of Panchamakar, the five ‘M’s representing Mamsa (the animal flesh), matsya (Fish), Madira (liquor), Mudra (dance like gestures) and Maithuna (coition).
The religions described above are not the only religions of Nepal. Other various sects do exist in Nepal because the ethnic structure of the country is really complex and there is greater degree of diversity with regard the religious belief. We have to be aware of this aspect of Nepali religions in spite of the fact that almost all the ethnic groups of Nepal are under the influence of one or the other major religions described above. The study of religions is complete only when it is conducted in religion with the ethnic structure. Some of the ethnic groups will be described later.
Hindu cast system and customs
The earliest available historical document of Nepal describe the cast system was deep rooted in Nepali society during Lichhchavi period. The society was divided into four castes and a kind of hierarchy placing the Brahmans at the top was established. The second, third and the fourth position in the hierarchy were given to Khsetriyas, Vaishyas and Sudras respectively. Different occupations were prescribed for these casts.
Brahmans had the responsibilities of conducting worships and studying Vedas and Purans, Khsetriyas were to rule and perform martial duties, Vaisyas were the merchants and Sudras, the untouchables were to do the works that were considered to be of the inferior kind at the time. Different kinds of foods also were prescribed for the different casts. Brahmans were to abstain for meat, liquor and many other things and were suggested to eat only those things which matched with their meditative temperament and priestly duties. The rigid system was once weakened by various factors during a period between the Lichhchavi regime and Malla regime. However, it was reinvigorated by Jayasthiti Malla. Various historical documents and inscriptions show the existence of such system. Inscription of 1392 AD in Kumbheshwor, Patan, the inscription of Kochu tole, Farping (1406 CE) and the number of others mention the various aspects of caste system.
Other ethnic groups outside the system were also significant elements of social structure. However, caste ranks equating the status of Brahmans and Kshetriyas were not given to them. They were not strictly obtained by the system.
Now the discriminatory caste system is limited to religious rituals. Nepali society at present is guided by other broader humanitarian concerns. Cast discrimination is prohibited by the law of Nepal.

121 Breeding Tigers Estimated To Be Found In Nepal
ScienceDaily (July 28, 2009) — Kathmandu, Nepal – The first ever overall nation-wide estimate of the tiger population brought a positive ray of hope among conservationists. The figures announced by the Nepal Government's Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) shows the presence of 121 (100 – 194) breeding tigers in the wild within the four protected areas of Nepal. The 2008 tiger population estimate was jointly implemented by the DNPWC, Department of Forests (DOF), WWF, National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) with support from Save The Tiger Fund (STF), WWF-US, WWF-UK, WWF International and US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).
See also:
Plants & Animals
Endangered Animals
Wild Animals
Cats
Earth & Climate
Rainforests
Environmental Policy
Exotic Species
Reference
Biodiversity hotspot
Tiger
Endangered species
Carnivore
The 2008 nation-wide tiger population was initiated on 15 November 2009 in the Terai Arc Landscape (TAL) of Nepal both inside and outside the protected areas of Nepal. [TAL encompasses the Terai region of Nepal and into tiger range states across the border into India.]
"To obtain reliable population estimates of wide ranging species like the tiger, it is important to undertake the survey simultaneously in all potential habitats," says Dr. Rinjan Shrestha, Conservation Biologist with WWF Nepal. Previous studies had been undertaken in different time periods and at different spatial scales.
"To derive information on both abundance and distribution of tigers, the current survey employed two methods - Camera Trapping method inside the protected areas and Habitat Occupancy survey both inside and outside the protected areas."
According to WWF Global Tiger Network Initiative, the wild tiger population is at a tipping point. Tigers are experiencing a range collapse, occupying 40 per cent less habitat than was estimated just one decade ago. The estimated number of tigers in important range countries is frighteningly low, with a recent government census suggesting there may be as few as 1,300 tigers left in India, the species' stronghold. And tigers are facing an epidemic of poaching and habitat loss across their range.
The main reason for the decline of tiger populations has been attributed to poaching and illegal trade. This is linked to the illegal international trade in tiger parts and derivatives (skin, bones, meat in some cases although not reported in Nepal) and use in traditional Chinese Medicines (TCM). Apart from these, sporadic cases of retaliatory killing from irate communities have been reported. Other important reasons of tiger population decline are habitat shrinkage and fragmentation due to human intervention, loss/decline of prey species.
"The tiger numbers have increased in Chitwan but decreased in Bardia and Shuklaphanta," said Mr. Anil Manandhar, Country Representative, WWF Nepal.
"In spite of the decade long insurgency, encroachment, poaching and illegal trade, the present numbers is a positive sign, but we can't remain unworried. The declining numbers in western Nepal has posed more challenges, needing a concerted effort to save this charismatic endangered species focusing on anti-poaching and illegal wildlife trade."
The Government of Nepal has approved and launched the 'Tiger conservation Action Plan 2008- 2012'. A comprehensive management plan has been devised in which the target is to increase the population of tigers by 10 per cent within the first 5 year period of the plan implementation.
"Tigers can not be saved by the effort of a single individual or a single organization," said Mr. Gopal Prasad Upadhyay, Director General, DNPWC. "The transboundary relation with India needs to be strengthened further and all organizations should work together to conserve tigers."

Animal Breeding Division
Background History
Activities relating to animal breeding started in the country in 1960/61with the initiation of artificial insemination (AI) programme to upgrade the native cattle by using the warm semen of the exotic breeds through Livestock Improvement Section. Artificial Insemination Project was established in Tripureswor in 1968/69 that helped to establish the liquid nitrogen plant in Tripureswor and the production of frozen semen started in the following years. In those days, the AI programme was restricted to Kathmandu valley. AI programme of Tripureswor was then shifted to Khumaltar and was upgraded as Animal Breeding Section under the Central Livestock Development Centre (CLDC) in 1985/86. This helped in expanding the AI activities in other districts to conduct the genetic improvement programme. During this time CLDC was under the Department of Livestock Services (DLS). The Animal Breeding Section was upgraded to Central Animal Breeding Division under National Agricultural Research and Service Centre (NARSC), Khumaltar in 1988/89. Later in 1991, NARSC has been changed to Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC) as an autonomous institution under "Nepal Agricultural Research Council Act-1991" with the prospect of having an efficient, effective and dynamic agricultural research system in the country and accordingly, the Central Animal Breeding Division was changed to Animal Breeding Division under the Council. The Council now has two major research institutes; National Agriculture Research Institute (NARI) and National Animal Science Research Institute (NASRI). Animal Breeding Division is working as one of the disciplinary division under NASRI, since its establishment.
Introduction
Animal Breeding Division is one among the five technical divisions of National Animal Science Research Institute (NASRI) under the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC). The Division is responsible and mandated for the systematic evaluation and improvement of native genetic resources and introduced breeds of different livestock species intending to improve the livestock productivity. The Division, apart from doing laboratory based out-reach research at Khumaltar, is now conducting breeding research in different agricultural research stations (ARS), commodity programmes and regional agricultural research station (RARS) of NARC as well as at farmers’ field. The laboratory-based works are focussed to support the different commodities to make their programme effective and productive.
The Division is situated in Khumaltar, Satdobato, Lalitpur, District (South of Kathmandu on the way to Godawari) at an altitude of 1360 masl. The Division is located at 27o 40" north latitude and 85o 20" east longitude.
Mandate
Systematic Evaluation of Native and Introduced Exotic Breeds of Livestock Species Intending for Improved Productivity
Objectives
To develop a national breed performance database to facilitate the evaluation of genotype performance and identification of superior genotypes
To undertake applied genetic research in all farm animals and birds in collaboration with livestock commodity research programme and agricultural research station (ARS)
To establish and improve nucleus breeding herds of dairy animals, meat and wool producing animals and egg producing birds in collaboration with livestock commodity research programme and agricultural research station (ARS)
To conserve, maintain and improve germplasm diversity of farm animals and birds
To collaborate and support DLS (Department of Livestock Services) farms to develop " nucleus breeder farmers" to maintain line breeding
To develop improved reproduction technology appropriate to small farmers and small holders
To establish linkage through NARC with international research organizations, institutes, universities for exchange of experts and materials
To formulate national policies of genetic improvement for sustainable production system of domesticated livestock and birds
To provide leadership and coordination with DLS, IAAS (Institute of Agriculture and Animal Sciences), Nepal Academic for Science and Technology (NAST) and NGOs for research in the field of animal genetic research and breeding fields
To extend expertise and consultancy services in animal breeding technologies
To coordinate the nationals research efforts into the causes of infertility and delayed breeding in livestock
To take a leadership in the national programme for importation and testing of new and improved genetic materials including frozen semen and embryo
Programs
Genetic Improvement/Breed Development
Reproductive Physiology and Biotechnology
Genetic Resource Conservation and Utilization
Genetic Improvement/Breed Development
Under this category, the evaluation of native breeds and their improvement programme, and investigation of suitable breeds for existing agro-climatic conditions and management systems are being implemented. Studies on the identification of suitable breeds and then their development works are also carried out. List of the on-going projects of the Division under the programme is as follows;
Participatory Breeding Approach for Production of Quality Murrah Buffalo Bulls in Nepal
Participatory Breeding Approach for Improved Productivity of Khari Goat in Western and Central Development Region of Nepal
Establishment of Elite Herds of Dairy Cattle and Buffaloes
Reproductive Physiology and Biotechnology
Under this programme, studies on reproduction physiology and some of the biotechnology tools such as Heat synchronization and AI will be undertaken for improving the livestock productivity. List of the on-going projects of the Division under the programme is as follows;
Study on Production, Freezing and Insemination of Semen of Crossbred Bulls in Nepal
Establishment of Elite Herds of Dairy Cattle and Buffaloes
The diversity of animal genetic resources in the country is shrinking due to introduction of exotic blood and lack of promotion of indigenous animal germplasm (Farm Animal Genetic Resources, 1997). There may be many breeds/strains of domesticated animals and birds that need to be identified and characterized. The importance and value of the local breeds/strains has to be established and evaluated for their merit. Under this programme, activities relating to identification, characterization of breeds/strains for their further utilization and conservation are being implemented. List of the on-going projects of the Division under the programme is as follows;
Animal Genetic Resources Conservation and Improvement in Nepal
Characterization of Native Animal Genetic Resources: Terai Buffaloes
Conservation and Utilization of Rare Breeds of Indigenous Cattle, Achhami
Major Output/Achievements
Genetic Improvement/Breed Development
Jersey crossbreds (50 to 75%) are suitable for Nepalese conditions for higher milk production
Holstein-Friesian should be selected for high intensive management system
The native hill cattle blood level should not be lower than 25% to make effective use of resistant gene to parasites and diseases prevailing in the cattle farming system of Nepal
Native breeds of buffalo like Lime, Parkote and Gaddi have been identified
Khari/Hill goats have been proved to be the most productive breed of goat for hills of Nepal
Selection within the Hill/Khari goats can improve the overall productivity
Wool production of native sheep can be increased by crossbreeding with exotic breeds (Polworth, Merino and Border Leicester) of sheep
Wool obtained from crossbred sheep is not suitable for making carpet
Exotic pig breeds adapted and found productive for our conditions are Hampshire, Yorkshire, Landrace. Pakhribas black pig is suitable breed for the hills of Nepal
Angora rabbits can be successfully reared in the hilly region of Nepal
German Angora rabbits are suitable breed for our condition
Dual purpose poultry breeds (New Hampshire and Austrolorp) have been recommended for scavenging and semi intensive system
Reproductive Physiology and Biotechnology
Semen production techniques in cattle and buffaloes established
Egg Yolk Citrate (EYC), Lactose-Fructose Egg Yolk (LFEY) and TRIS diluents are equally effective for freezing the semen of cattle and buffalo
TRIS is found to be more effective in buffalo semen
Heat shynchronization protocol is established for indigenous cattle and buffaloes. They are two dose of prostaglandin hormone at 11 days apart (day 0 and at 11 day after 1st injection) to cyclic buffaloes and cattle are effective for bringing them on heat. Similarly, one dose of prostaglandin and two dose of gonadotrophin (GnRH) at 14 days apart to non-cyclic cattle and buffaloes are effective for bringing them on heat
Embryo transfer (ET) techniques in cattle established
Establishment of Elite Herds of Dairy Cattle and Buffaloes
Altogether 25 native breeds have been identified. They are Lulu, Achhami, Khaila, Terai Pahari and Yak in cattle; Lime, Parkote and Gaddi in buffaloes; Khari, Terai, Sinhal and Chyangra in goats; Lampuchhre, Kage, Baruwal and Bhyanglung in sheep; Hurrah, Chwanche and Bampudke in pigs; Sakini, Ghanti Khuile and Puwankh Ulte in chicken and Jumli horse in horse
All of these have been identified at phenotypic level while a few are characterized at chromosomal level and one at DNA level
Status of these breeds in relation to conservation determined

rare species of nepal

SN
Scientific Name
Local Name
Common Name
Status
IUCN
CITES
Mammals






1
Ailurus flugens
Habre
Red Panda

I
2
Antilope carvicapra
Krishnasar
Black buck
V
III
3
Bos gaurus
Gauri Gai
Gaur
V
I
4
Bos mutus
Yok Nak
Wild Yak
E
I
5
Bubalus bubalis
Arna
Wild water buffalo
E
III
6
Canis lupus
Bwanso
Tibetan woulf
V
I
7
Caprolagus hispidus
Hispid Kharayo
Hispid Hare
E
I
8
Cervus duvaceli
Barasinghe
Swamp deer
E
I
9
Elephus maximus
Jangali Hatti
Asiatic elephant
E
I
10
Felis lynx
Lynx
Lynx
E
II
11
Hyaena hyaena
Hundar
Striped hyaena
E

12
Macaca assamensis
Asamese Rato Bander
Asamese monkey

II
13
Manis pantadactyla
Salak
Chinese pangolin

II
14
Moschus chrysogaster
Kasturi
Himalayan Musk Deer
E
I
15
Ovis ammon
Nayan
Great Tibetan Sheep
I
I
16
Panthera tigris
Bagh
Royal Bengal Tiger
E
I
17
Panthera uncia
Hiun Chituwa
Snow Leopard
E
I
18
Pantholops hodgsoni
Chiru
Tibetan Antelope

I
19
Pardofelis nebulosa
Dhwanshe Chitwa
Clouded Leopard
V
I
20
Platanista gangetica
Sauns
Gangetic Dolphin
V
I
21
Prionailurus bengalensis
Chari Bagh
Leopard Cat

II
22
Prionodon pardicolor
Silu
Spotted Lingsang

I
23
Rhinoceros unicornis
Gainda
Greater one-horned rhinoceros


24
Sus salvinus
Sano/Pudke Bandel
Pigmy Hog
EXN
I
25
Tetracerus quadricornis
Chausingha
Four-horned Antelope

III
26
Ursus arctos
Himali Rato Bhalu
Brown Bear

I
Birds
27
Buceros bicornis
Thulo Dhanesh
Great Pied Hornbill

I
28
Catreus wallichil
Cheer
Cheer Pheasent
E
I
29
Ciconia nigra
Kalo Saras
Black Strock

II
30
Ciconia ciconia
Seto Saras
White Strock

II
31
Eupodotis bengalensis
Khar Majur
Bengal Florican
E
I
32
Grus grus
Saras
Common Crane


33
Lophophorus impejanus
Danfe
Impeyan Pheasant

I
34
Sypheotides inidica
Sano Khar Mujur
Lessar Florican

II
35
Tragopan satyra
Munal
Crimsom-horned Pheasant


Reptiles
36
Gavialis gangeticus
Ghadial
Gharial Crocodile
E
I
37
Python molurus
Ajingar
Asiatic Rock Python
V
I
38
Varanus f;avescens
Sun Gohoro
Golden Monitor Lizard
I
I
CITES status categories are:
I = Appendix I: Species threatened with extinction
II = Appendix II: Species not yet threatened, but which could become endangered if trade is not controlled.
III = Appendix III: Species that are protected by individual countries within their borders, and for which co-operation of other convention signatories is sought.
IUCN threatened categories are:
E= Endangered: A taxa in danger of extinction, and whose survival is the causal factors continue operating.
V= Vulnerable: A taxa believed likely to move into the "Endangered" category in the near future if the causal factors continue operating.
R= Rare: A taxa with small world population that is not at present "Endangered" or "Vulnerable".
I = Indeterminate: A taxa known to be endangered, vulnerable or rare, but for which there is not enough information to say which of the three categories is appropriate.
K= Insufficiently known: A taxa suspected but definitely not known to belong any of the above categories because of lack of information.
T= Threatened: A taxa that can not be ascribed to any of the previous categories.

Threatened species are defined as those animals listed by the IUCN's Red Data Book , the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) (Appendices I, II, and III), and animals protected under Schedule I (Protected Wildlife, pertaining to section 10) of the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act of 2029 (1972/1973) of Nepal. These species are considered to be rare, endangered, threatened or vulnerable to extinction within Nepal or elsewhere within their ranges. Species listed by CITES are considered threatened by unregulated international trade. This list was developed from information contained in the 1988 Annotated CITES Appendices and Reservations prepared by the Wildlife Trade Monitoring Unit of the IUCN Conservation Monitoring Center in Cambridge, England.