Nepalese

Nepalese is a term used to refer to Nepal and to its people, culture, and things associated with the country. In English, it functions as a demonym for residents of Nepal and as an adjective describing Nepali-related topics. In Nepal, the term Nepali is commonly used for the language and for national identity, but Nepalese remains common in some international or historical contexts.

The population of Nepal is ethnically and linguistically diverse. The country includes communities such as Chhetri and Bahun (Brahmin) in the hills, along with Newar, Magar, Tharu, Tamang, Rai, Limbu, Sherpa, and other groups across mountain and plains regions. Hinduism is the largest religion, followed by Buddhism, with minorities practicing Islam, Christianity, and other faiths. Social structures and cultural practices vary among communities, reflecting a long history of kingdoms, trade, and migration.

The Nepalese language landscape is characterized by Nepali (often called Nepali or Nepal Bhasha), an Indo-Aryan language that serves as the lingua franca and is widely used in education and administration. It is written in the Devanagari script. Many minority languages are spoken by different ethnic groups, and language policy recognizes Nepali as the common language of communication while allowing linguistic diversity alongside English in official and educational settings.

Geographically, Nepal is a landlocked country in the Himalayas, bordered by India and China, with Kathmandu as its capital and largest city. Since 2008, Nepal has been a federal democratic republic, reflecting its multiethnic and multi-religious composition. The Nepalese identity is shaped by a long history of kingdoms, regional cultures, and national unity.