and climate vulnerability. With a population of roughly 31.33 million, the country continues to navigate federal restructuring, reliance on remittances, and development challenges.
Introduction
Nepal is a landlocked Himalayan nation situated between India and China, known for its diverse geography, cultural heritage, and political evolution from monarchy to republic. Its modern political framework stems from the 2015 Constitution, which established a federal democratic system.
Geography
Nepal spans 147,181 sq km, stretching roughly 800 km east–west and 90–150 km north–south. It lies along the southern slopes of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest.
People and Society
- Population (2025 est.): 31.33 million
- Languages: Nepali (official) and others
- Urban population: ~22.4% (2024)
- Life expectancy: ~70.35 years (2023)
- Internet users: 55.8% (2023)
Nepal’s society is ethnically diverse, with strong cultural traditions and significant labor migration abroad.
Government
Nepal is a federal democratic republic with:
- Three-tier governance: federal, seven provincial, and 753 local governments
- Multiparty democracy with coalition-based politics
- Ongoing challenges in fully implementing federalism and legislative reforms
Population
Estimated 31.33 million in 2025, with moderate density (~213/km²). Population growth is slow, partly due to migration.
Economy
- GDP (2024–25 est.): ~$42.9B
- GDP per capita: ~$1,450–5,000 depending on metric used
- Key features:
- Heavy reliance on remittances
- High informal employment (82%)
- Vulnerability to climate shocks and natural disasters
- Need for stronger domestic job creation and investment
Energy
Nepal’s energy sector is dominated by hydropower, with ongoing development to meet domestic demand and export potential. (General context inferred; no direct 2025-specific data found.)
Communications
- Internet penetration: 55.8% (2023)
- Calling code: +977
- Timezone: UTC+05:45
Transportation
Nepal’s transport network includes:
- Road systems connecting major cities and rural areas
- Limited rail infrastructure
- Air travel essential for remote regions (General context; no 2025-specific updates found.)
Military and Security
Nepal maintains a national military focused on:
- Border security
- Disaster response
- Participation in UN peacekeeping Political stability remains sensitive due to coalition dynamics and past insurgency history.
Travel Advice (General)
Travelers should be aware of:
- Terrain challenges (mountain roads, weather disruptions)
- Earthquake and landslide risks
- Political demonstrations that may affect mobility (General safety context; no 2025-specific advisory found.)
Expected Trends for 2026
Based on 2025–26 reporting:
- Continued political volatility, including concerns over governance and ordinance use (2026 news context)
- Ongoing economic pressure from global shocks and domestic structural issues
- Increased focus on climate resilience and air quality improvements (World Bank 2026 updates)
- Potential regional diplomatic tensions (e.g., Lipulekh route concerns)
