National Game of Nepal: Volleyball

National Game of Nepal

Volleyball is the national game of Nepal, officially declared on May 23, 2017. Today, it is one of the most popular and widely played sports across the country, from remote Himalayan villages to the bustling streets of Kathmandu.

This article explores the history of volleyball in Nepal, why it became the national game, its rules, development, challenges, achievements, and future opportunities.

National Game of Nepal

For decades, Dandi Biyo, a traditional stick-and-pin game, was considered Nepal’s unofficial national sport. But in 2017, the government officially declared volleyball as Nepal’s national game, recognizing its mass appeal and international significance.

The decision highlighted a shift from tradition to a modern sport that reflects Nepal’s unity, accessibility, and growing presence in global competitions.

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From De Facto to Official

While Dandi Biyo represented Nepal’s cultural roots, it declined in popularity due to urbanization and lack of formal organization. Volleyball, on the other hand, became the game of the people.

With its easy-to-learn rules, minimal equipment, and suitability for all terrains, volleyball grew into a sport that could connect diverse communities. By 2017, its official recognition was not just symbolic—it was strategic.

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A Love Born in the Hills

Volleyball entered Nepal in the 1950s, introduced by returning Gurkha soldiers who learned the game abroad. Initially confined to urban centers and colleges, it quickly spread to rural areas.

• Makeshift courts were set up in villages.
• Families and communities gathered to cheer local teams.
• Youngsters sharpened their skills on dusty grounds.

Volleyball became more than a sport—it became part of Nepalese lifestyle and social life.

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Detail History of Volleyball in Nepal

Early Introduction (1900s – 1950s)

• 1900s: British Gurkha soldiers introduced volleyball in Nepal.
• 1942: Students of Tri-Chandra College in Kathmandu played volleyball, marking its recorded presence.
• Spread: Gradually reached cities like Biratnagar, Dharan, and Pokhara, especially in police and army circles.

Growth and Formalization (1960s – 1990s)

• 1960s: National Sports Council promoted volleyball across districts.
• 1968: Nepal Volleyball Association (NVA) was established.
• 1970s: Inter-college tournaments and Japanese training programs boosted skills.
• 1982: First National Games recognized volleyball’s importance.

National Sport and Beyond (1990s – Present)

• 1990s: Gained nationwide popularity after political changes.
• 2000s onwards: Regular national and international tournaments organized by NVA.
• 2017: Officially declared as the national sport of Nepal.

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How to Play Volleyball

Volleyball is a team sport played between two teams of six players on each side. The goal is to send the ball over the net and land it in the opponent’s court while preventing the same from happening.

• Games are usually played to 25 points.
• A team must win by at least 2 points.
• Each side can touch the ball maximum three times before returning it.

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Basic Rules in Volleyball

Here are the essential volleyball rules:

1. Team Setup: Six players per team, three in front and three at the back.
2. Scoring: Rally-point scoring system (a point is awarded on every rally).
3. Ball Contact: Teams get three touches; no consecutive hits by the same player.
4. Serving: Must be done from behind the baseline (overhand or underhand).
5. Rotation: Players rotate clockwise after winning back the serve.
6. Winning: A set is won at 25 points with a 2-point lead. Matches are usually best-of-five sets.
7. Court & Equipment: Court size is 18m × 9m; net height is 2.43m (men) and 2.24m (women).

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Developmental Strides and Challenges

Despite being the national sport, volleyball in Nepal faces challenges:

• Limited funding and sponsorships.
• Lack of professional infrastructure.
• Need for advanced coaching and grassroots development.

However, positive steps include:

• Establishment of training centers.
• National tournaments gaining media coverage.
• Participation in international competitions.

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Opportunities for Ascent

Volleyball offers Nepal great opportunities:

• Government support & sponsorships could transform the sport.
• Grassroots programs can nurture young talent.
• Global exposure through international competitions can uplift Nepal’s sporting profile.
• Promotes health, teamwork, and national pride.

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Nepal Volleyball Team’s Achievements

Women’s Team

• CAVA Women’s Challenge Cup: Gold (2019, 2021), Bronze (2023).
• South Asian Games: Silver (2010, 2019), Bronze (1999, 2006, 2016).
• AVC Asian Central Zone Championship: Champions in 2019.
• World Ranking: 87th position in FIVB rankings (2020).

Men’s Team

• Asian Games: Participated in 1978, 1982, 1986, 2018 (best rank: 12th).
• AVC Central Zone Tournament: 4th place (2015, 2016, 2018), 5th place (2019).
• South Asian Games: 4th place (2010), 5th place (2016, 2019).

While the men’s team is developing, the women’s team has become Nepal’s strongest international representative.

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Other Popular Games in Nepal

Besides volleyball, Nepalese people also love:

• Cricket 🏏 (fastest-growing sport, popularized by the national team’s rise).
• Football ⚽ (a traditional favorite in cities like Kathmandu and Dharan).
• Badminton 🏸 and Table Tennis 🏓 (popular indoor sports).
• Basketball 🏀 (rising among urban youth).

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Conclusion

The journey of volleyball in Nepal is a story of growth, resilience, and national pride. From humble beginnings in the 1950s to being officially declared the national sport in 2017, volleyball reflects Nepal’s unity and passion for sports.

With stronger investment, grassroots programs, and international exposure, Nepal’s volleyball future looks bright. The game not only entertains but also strengthens social cohesion, health, and global identity.

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