People and Culture

According to the Central Bureau of Statistics, the total population of Nepal was 26,427,99 in 2007. The population comprises people of more than 100 multiple ethnic groups who speak about 93 different languages and dialects which are further divided into different castes. The distinction in caste still plays a significant part in a Nepali’ life when it comes to marriage. Some of the main ethnic groups are: Gurungs and Magars who live mainly in the western region; Rais, Limbus and Sunwars who live in the eastern middle hills; Sherpas, Manangbas and Lopas who live near the mountains of Everest, Annapurna and Mustang respectively; Newars who live in and around the Kathmandu valley; Tharus, Yadavas, Satar, Rajvanshis and Dhimals who live in the Tarai region; and Brahmins, Chhetris and Thakuris generally spread over all parts of the country. Nepali is the official language of the state, spoken and understood by almost all the people of Nepal. English is spoken by many in government and business offices. It is the mode of education in most private schools of Kathmandu and some other cities.

ETH. GROUP POPULATION
Brahman 2,896,477
Chhetri 3,593,496
Magar 1,662,241
Tharu 1,533,879
Tamang 1,282,304
Newar 1,245,232
Rai 6,35,151
Gurung 5,43,571
Limbu 3,59,379
Thakuri 3,34,120
Sherpa 15,462
Thakali 12,973
Chepang 52,237
Raute 658