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 |