Religious Diversity of Nepal
Major Religions
Hinduism (81.3%)
- Former state religion until 2008
- Pashupatinath Temple is most sacred site
- Blends with Buddhist traditions in Nepal
- Major festivals: Dashain, Tihar, Shivaratri
Buddhism (9.0%)
- Lumbini - Buddha's birthplace (UNESCO site)
- Two main traditions: Tibetan and Newar Buddhism
- Major stupas: Boudhanath, Swayambhunath
- Celebrates Buddha Jayanti, Losar
Religious Demographics
| Religion |
Percentage |
Main Regions |
| Hinduism |
81.3% |
Nationwide |
| Buddhism |
9.0% |
Northern mountains, Kathmandu |
| Islam |
4.4% |
Terai region |
| Kirat Mundhum |
3.1% |
Eastern hills |
| Christianity |
1.4% |
Urban areas |
Religious Harmony
Shared Sacred Sites
- Muktinath - revered by Hindus and Buddhists
- Swayambhunath - Buddhist stupa with Hindu shrines
- Janakpur - important for Hindus and Buddhists
Nepal's 2015 constitution guarantees religious freedom while preserving traditional practices, creating a unique model of secularism.
Religious Holidays
| Holiday |
Religion |
Significance |
| Dashain |
Hindu |
Victory of gods over demons |
| Buddha Jayanti |
Buddhist |
Buddha's birth, enlightenment |
| Eid al-Fitr |
Muslim |
End of Ramadan fasting |
| Christmas |
Christian |
Birth of Jesus Christ |