Nepal is a culturally diverse with rich in heritage and ethnic group, religion, language, tradition and socities. Hindu and Buddhist culture are deeply rooted and culture belief in Nepal. Muslim culture are celibrated in terai region of Nepal. Christinity also found somewhere in Nepal. Therefore, Nepal is cultural variance, respect to all religion and ethnic group.
Religion and Festival:
Hindusm: Mostly nepali people belief in hindusm. Pashupatinath, Muktinath, Budhanilkantha, Devghat are major Hindu Temples in Nepal. Dashain, Tihar, Janaipurnima are major festival in Nepal.
Buddhist: Buddhist Culture and religious are second largest population in Nepal. Suyambhunath and Bouddhanath are popular buddhist stupa in kathmandu valley. Those site are listed in UNESCO world heritage site. Lochhar and Buddha Jayanti are major festival of Buddhist in Nepal.
Muslim: Muslim culture are rooted in terai region of Nepal. Chhat, eid are major festival of muslim community in Nepal.
Language and Literature:
Nepali is the official language, but there are over 120 other languages spoken by different ethnic groups. Folk literature, songs, and stories are an essential part of Nepalese cultural and heritage.
Traditional Music and Dance:
Folk music such as Dohori, Tamang Selo, and Newar Dhime are popular in different regions. Classical dances like Lakhe dance (Newar), Maruni dance (Gurung), and Charya dance (Buddhist) are performed during festivals.
Food and Cuisine:
Nepalese cuisine varies by region but is generally simple and nutritious. Dal Bhat Tarkari (lentils, rice, and vegetables) is the staple food. Other traditional dishes include Momo (dumplings), Dhido (millet or buckwheat porridge), and Sel Roti (fried rice bread).
Customs and Traditions
Social Customs:
Namaste (pressing hands together) is the traditional greeting. Respecting elders and seeking their blessings is an important custom. Arranged marriages are common in many communities.
Birth and Death Rituals:
Newborn babies undergo Nwaran (naming ceremony) on the 7th day. Death rituals involve cremation (for Hindus) and burial (for some Buddhist and indigenous groups).
Clothing and Ornaments:
Traditional attire includes Daura Suruwal for men and Gunyu Cholo for women. Different ethnic groups have their unique dresses, such as Sherpa Bakhu, Newar Haku Patasi, and Gurung Bhangra.
Cultural Diversity in Nepal:
Nepal is home to more than 125 ethnic groups, each with unique traditions: Newar culture (Kathmandu Valley) is rich in art, architecture, and festivals. Tharu culture (Terai region) has unique dances like Sakhiya and Jhumra. Sherpa culture (Himalayan region) is known for mountaineering traditions and Buddhist heritage.