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Nepal has a population of about 22
millions which consists of different ethnic groups,
races and tribes. They are mainly derived from Indo
Aryans, Tibetans, Mongolians and Tibeto - Burmese origins
migrated in different course of time. They are divided
into different ethnical groups and sub groups living
in different regions wearing different costumes and
speaking different languages and dialects. The Indo
Aryan people have been found mostly in Terai and lower
mountain regions whereas Mongolians and Tibeto Burmese
are found in the valley and mid Himalayan region.
The Tibetan
origin people are found mostly in Himalayan region.
All of them are known by different surnames like Gurungs,
Magars, Rais, Limbus, Sherpas, Newars, Tharus, Yadav,
Rajbhangsi, Brahamins, Chettris, Thakuris, Ranas etc.,
but are proud of being called a Nepali. The average
density of People is 132 per sq. kms. average live expectation
is 54.2 years and average birth rate 2.47 per annum,
infant mortality at birth 107 per thousand.
The major religions
in Nepal are Hinduism and Buddhism, besides that a very
small percentage of Muslims, Christians and Janis live
in Nepal. The religious tolerance which is a remarkable
feature of Nepal is expressed by the peaceful co-existance
and co-operation among the different religions. The
Official census of Hindus, Buddhist, Muslims, Jains,
Christians and other are repesented by the following
percentage respectively 89.5%, 5.3%, 0.1% and 0.23%.
The unique features
of Nepalese culture are represented by the majestic
temples of exquisite and artistic architecture of Nepali
Pagodas. Whether it is temple, stupa or shrine the perfection
of art has been featured by intricate woodcarving super
metal work and artistic terracotta and stone sculptures.
Nepalese are generally
very welcoming the visitors, and will make allowances,
but it will be appreciated if you make an effort to
respect certain customs. Some people, particularly women,
prefer not to shake hands with opposite sex, and you
should always use the right hand when shaking hands
or even when passing and receiving anything. Footwear
should be removed before entering places of worship
and temples. You should always walk clockwise around
temple, and you may have to remove items made of leather,
never touch or point at anything with your feet, which
are spiritually the lowest part of the body.
Begging is relatively
common, partly because both Hinduism & Buddhism
encourage the giving of alms, it can be very difficult
to assess whether someone is genuine or not-see if any
Nepalese are giving. Around the main religious shrines
there are long lines of beggars, to whom-pilgrims normally
give a coin each. But some are professionally beggars
mostly from India should be discouraged. Westerners
are not really expected to give here
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