Nepal is a multilingual country with a diverse linguistic landscape. The official language of Nepal is Nepali, which is spoken by the majority of the population and is the primary language used in government, education, and media. However, there are numerous other languages spoken by various ethnic and linguistic groups throughout the country. Some of the major languages spoken in Nepal are:
- Nepali: The official language and lingua franca of Nepal, spoken by the majority of the population.
- Maithili: Spoken mainly in the eastern Terai region of Nepal, Maithili is also one of the recognized regional languages.
- Bhojpuri: Another language spoken in the eastern Terai, particularly in the districts of Parsa, Rautahat, and Siraha.
- Tamang: Widely spoken by the Tamang community in the central and eastern regions of Nepal.
- Newari (Nepal Bhasa): The traditional language of the Newar community in the Kathmandu Valley and surrounding areas.
- Tharu: Spoken by the Tharu community, mainly in the western Terai region.
- Gurung: Spoken by the Gurung community, predominantly in the western hills of Nepal.
- Magar: Commonly spoken by the Magar community in various regions of Nepal.
- Rai and Limbu: Languages spoken by the Rai and Limbu communities, respectively, in the eastern hills.
- Sherpa: Spoken by the Sherpa community in the Everest region and other parts of the eastern hills.
- Urdu, Hindi, and English: While not native languages of Nepal, Urdu and Hindi are understood and spoken by some, especially in the southern Terai region near the border with India. English is widely used in urban areas, particularly in tourism, business, and education.
The linguistic diversity in Nepal reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage and the coexistence of various ethnic groups with their unique languages and traditions.
