About Nepal
Nepal (map) is a small country located between two of the world's most populous countries-India and China. Nepal has dramatic contrasts in elevation. Starting from 175 ft, the country rises to the top of Mt. Everest at 29,035 ft above sea level (according to the American Alpine Club). Nepal is a major destination for adventure travelers, although the ongoing Maoist uprising has cast dark clouds on its tourism industry.

Nepal is a unique and special country. It is bordered by China in the north and India in the south, west and east. According to the 2003 census, Nepal has a population of over 26 million, consisting of over 40 different ethnic groups speaking over 90 languages and dialects. Approximately 80 percent is Hindu, while 11 percent are Buddhist. A small percentage is Kirat, Muslim, or Christian. More than half of the country's population lives below the poverty line. In 2003 the annual per capita income was U.S. $ 240.

Nepal's diverse terrain provides perfect conditions for a large variety of flora and fauna. Its national parks in the lowlands are home to the Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, sloth bear, and numerous species of birds. Blue sheep, musk deer, and the very rare and elusive snow leopard make their homes in the national parks located at higher elevations. Nepal also boasts very rare species of orchids and rhododendrons, some of which are endemic to Nepal. The red rhododendron is the national flower of Nepal.

The Nepali people are among the friendliest and most charming people one is likely to meet. Unfortunately, over 70 percent of Nepal's population is illiterate. In the lowland region, where WELNepal is active, only 10 percent of the women are literate. Inadequate education policies and government indifference have done nothing to improve the situation. For example, rural communities themselves were required to construct and maintain their schools, while the government would simply pay teachers' salaries.

Nepal (map) is divided into seventy-five districts, each administered by a centrally appointed chief district officer. This centrally controlled administrative system is one of the causes of the Maoist uprising, which advocates more local-level representation. At this time, the Maoist insurgents have called for a ceasefire and have agreed to join the political mainstream once a new constitution has been written and adopted. What is most important for the Nepali people is a lasting peace.