13 Unique Things Only Found in Nepal

Overview

Nepal, a land of diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is home to a plethora of unique and fascinating treasures found nowhere else in the world. From rare avian wonders like the Spiny Babbler, believed to be extinct for centuries until its miraculous rediscovery, to the mysterious Yeti, said to roam the secluded paths of the Himalayas, Nepal captivates with its mythical allure.

Nestled between China and India, Nepal is a gem that offers a captivating blend of nature’s marvels and a vibrant tapestry of ancient traditions. In this article, we will delve into the unique things only found in Nepal.

Things Only found in Nepal

1. Only Country with Triangular Flag

One of the first things that distinguish Nepal from other countries is its flag. Unlike the square-shaped flags of most nations, Nepal boasts a distinctive triangular flag. The crimson-red color of the flag symbolizes war victory and the national flower, Rhododendron. The blue border signifies peace, making it a unique and meaningful representation of the nation. The flag’s history dates back over 2000 years, adding to its fascinating allure.

2. Kumari – The Living Goddess

Nepal is home to the only living goddess in the world, known as Kumari. According to Newari tradition, the goddess Taleju is believed to inhabit a pre-pubescent girl chosen to become the living goddess. The selection process is meticulous, with specific physical and temperamental attributes being crucial criteria. Once selected, the Kumari is revered by locals and visitors alike, and people seek her blessings during festivals. The young girl remains the living goddess until she reaches adolescence.

3. The Nepali Calendar

Nepal follows a unique calendar system known as Bikram Sambat. Unlike the Gregorian calendar used by most countries, Bikram Sambat is specific to Nepal and approximately 57 years and 8.5 months ahead of the Gregorian calendar. The Nepalese new year falls in mid-April, marking a distinctive cultural practice that sets Nepal apart.

4. Saturday as the Public Holiday

In a departure from the global norm, Nepalese have their public holiday on Saturday instead of Sunday. Saturday is considered the first day of the week in Nepal, and this unique tradition sets the country apart from the rest of the world. Government offices, schools, colleges, and industries observe Saturdays as a day of rest, making Nepal’s workweek distinctively different.

5. Lukla – Most Dangerous Airport in the World

Nestled amidst the Himalayas, Lukla Airport holds the reputation of being one of the most dangerous airports globally. Its short and challenging runway, surrounded by mountains, demands skilled piloting and nerves of steel. The airport’s remote location and unpredictable weather add to the thrill and adventure of landing in this unique and perilous setting. Lukla Airport serves as the primary gateway for visitors aiming to explore Mount Everest.

6. Mount Everest – Highest Peak in the World

Nepal proudly hosts the highest peak on Earth, Mount Everest, also known as Sagarmatha. The allure of Everest draws millions of tourists each year, and the iconic Everest Base Camp trek remains a popular adventure. Standing at a staggering 8,848 meters, Mount Everest is a testament to Nepal’s majestic beauty and has been an inspiration for countless adventurers.

7. Eight of the Ten Highest Peaks

As a Himalayan country, Along with the highest peak Mount Everest, Nepal is blessed with eight of the world’s ten highest peaks. Mount Everest, Mount Makalu, Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Cho Oyu, Mount Lhotse, Mount Annapurna, Mount Manaslu, and Mount Dhaulagiri grace Nepal’s picturesque landscape. These majestic peaks attract mountaineers and adventurers from across the globe, seeking the thrill of conquering the highest summits.

8. Shaligram Stone

A Saligram stone, also known as a Saligram Shila, is a sacred object in Hinduism. It is a fossilized shell or ammonite found in the Gandaki River in Nepal, specifically in the Kali Gandaki River, which is considered one of the holiest rivers in the country. The stones are typically black, and their sizes can vary from small pebbles to larger, more intricate formations.

These stones are highly revered by Hindus, especially those following the Vaishnavism tradition, as they are believed to be the embodiment of Lord Vishnu. The unique markings and patterns found on the Saligram stones are considered representations of various forms of Vishnu and his various avatars (incarnations). Each stone is believed to possess divine energy and is considered a powerful symbol of protection, prosperity, and spiritual growth.

Devotees often keep Shaligram stones in their homes or use them in temples for worship. It is essential to handle these stones with utmost respect and cleanliness, and they are typically kept in a sacred cloth or container when not in use.

9. Yeti – The Mountain Man

The legend of the Yeti, a mysterious creature believed to reside in the Himalayas, has intrigued explorers and adventurers for centuries. Numerous climbers have claimed sightings of the elusive Yeti, and expeditions have been launched to uncover its existence. Although conclusive evidence remains elusive, the stories and sightings continue to add an air of mystique to the Himalayan region.

10. Spiny Babbler – A Rare Bird

Nepal boasts its own avian gem, the Spiny Babbler (locally known as Kande Bhyakur). This bird species, scientifically named “Turdoides nipalensis,” is found exclusively in Nepal’s Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. Once considered extinct, it came to the attention of ornithologists like Sidney Dillon Ripley, who confirmed its existence. The Spiny Babbler remains a rare and treasured discovery for bird enthusiasts.

11. Yarsagumba – The Caterpillar Fungus

Yarsagumba, also known as the caterpillar fungus, is a unique and valuable herb found in the far western Himalayan region of Nepal. This extraordinary fungus forms when parasitic mushroom spores infect and mummify moth larvae living in the soil. Harvested during specific times of the year, Yarsagumba is highly prized in traditional Chinese medicine and fetches a high price due to its scarcity and beneficial properties.

12. Freshwater Fish Species

1. Schizothorax macrophthalmus (Nepalese snow trout)
   • Habitat: Endemic to Rara lake
2. Schizothorax nepalensis (Tikhe Asla)
   • Habitat: Endemic to Rara lake, found in littoral zones over gravel substrate
3. Schizothorax raraensis (Rara snowtrout)
   • Distribution: Mugu
   • Habitat: Endemic to Rara lake
4. Psilorhynchus pseudechenesis (Stone carp)
   • Habitat: Endemic to Nepal,
5. Myersglanis blythi (Stone catfish)
   • Distribution: Mugu, Myagdi
   • Habitat: Found in rivers with swift flow over a rocky substrate in Mountains and Hills.
   • Feeding Habit: Insectivorous, feeds on aquatic insects including stone fly, nymphs, and larval forms of insects.
6. Batasio macronotus
   • Distribution: Saptari, Sunsari
   • Habitat: Known only from the Koshi river in eastern Nepal, found in lowland waters over sand and mud substrate.
7. Erethistoids cavatura
   • Distribution: Dungre Khola, Buri Rapti river of Chitwan, and Narayani river.
   • Habitat: Known only from Nepal, found in gravel bed streams with sandy bottoms having water temperature 18-20 degrees Celsius.
8. Erethistoids ascita
   • Distribution: Jhapa, Udayapur
   • Habitat: Found in pebbles with moderate depth and current velocity.
9. Pseudechenesis eddi
   • Distribution: Tanahun district
   • Habitat: Found in hill rivers with swift water flow over rocky substrate.
10. Psilorhynchus nepalansis
    • Distribution: Tanahun district
    • Habitat: Endemic to Nepal, found in hilly streams, and tributaries of Kaligandaki.
11. Pseudecheneis crossicauda
    • Distribution: Mewa Khola and Tamu river
    • Habitat: Same as above, found in hill rivers with swift water flow over rocky substrate.
12. Pseudechenesis seracula
    • Distribution: Bajura, Gulmi, Kanchanpur, Tanahun

13. Variation in Altitude

Nepal’s geographical diversity is awe-inspiring, with an astounding variation in altitude. The country’s elevation ranges from as low as 70 meters in the Jhapa district to the lofty heights of 8,848 meters at Mount Everest’s summit. This remarkable variation allows Nepal to claim some of the most extreme places on Earth, including the highest valley (Arun valley), the deepest gorges (Kaligandaki), and the highest lake (Tilicho).

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nepal stands out as a land of wonders and uniqueness. From its extraordinary flag to its mystical legends and unparalleled natural beauty, Visiting Nepal is like embarking on a magical journey filled with awe and wonder, leaving a lasting impression on all who have the pleasure of exploring its charm.

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