Bagmati Province (बागमती प्रदेश)
Home to Kathmandu Valley and Most Populous Province
Geography
Area & Location
Bagmati covers 20,300 km² (7,838 sq mi) in central Nepal, containing Kathmandu Valley and surrounding hills. Named after the sacred Bagmati River that flows through the valley.
Topography
Varied from Himalayan peaks (Langtang) to mid-hills and valleys. Kathmandu Valley sits at 1,400m elevation, surrounded by mountains up to 2,800m (Shivapuri, Phulchowki).
Climate
Temperate climate in valley (17°C avg), colder in mountains. Distinct wet monsoon (June-September) and dry seasons. Higher elevations receive winter snowfall, while valley remains moderate.
Districts
13 Districts of Bagmati:
- Kathmandu
- Lalitpur
- Bhaktapur
- Kavrepalanchok
- Dhading
- Nuwakot
- Rasuwa
- Sindhupalchok
- Dolakha
- Ramechhap
- Sindhuli
- Makwanpur
- Chitwan
District Highlights
Kathmandu
Capital city with numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites including Durbar Square, Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple.
Bhaktapur
Medieval city with well-preserved Newari architecture and culture. Known as the "City of Devotees" with famous 55 Window Palace and Nyatapola Temple.
Chitwan
Chitwan National Park, Nepal's first UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. Home to endangered one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tigers, and over 550 bird species.
Culture & People
Newars
Indigenous inhabitants of Kathmandu Valley with rich cultural heritage. Known for distinctive architecture, art, music, and cuisine. Traditional occupations include trade, craftsmanship, and agriculture.
Tamangs
Indigenous Tibeto-Burmese group predominantly in northern districts. Traditionally follow Buddhism mixed with shamanism. Known for their mountain skills and resilient culture.
Brahmin/Chhetri
Indo-Aryan groups primarily following Hindu traditions and caste system. Historically associated with governance, education, and religious practices.
Nepali
The official language spoken by majority (approx. 60%) and used in government, education, and business.
Nepal Bhasa (Newari)
Traditional language of Newars with rich literary history (approx. 15%). Written in Devanagari script with distinct vocabulary and grammar.
Tamang
Tibeto-Burmese language spoken in northern districts (approx. 10%). Has several dialects with significant variation between regions.
Dashain
Most important 15-day Hindu festival celebrating goddess Durga's victory over evil. Features family gatherings, feasts, kite flying, and bamboo swings.
Indra Jatra
Eight-day celebration in Kathmandu honoring rain god Indra. Features the display of Living Goddess Kumari and impressive mask dances (Lakhe).
Tihar (Deepawali)
Five-day festival of lights honoring Laxmi (goddess of wealth). Each day has specific rituals for crows, dogs, cows, oxen, and brothers.
Tourism Highlights
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Ancient royal palace complex with intricate wood carvings, pagoda-style temples, and courtyards. UNESCO World Heritage site featuring architectural marvels like Hanuman Dhoka Palace and Kumari Ghar (home of living goddess).
Chitwan National Park
932 km² protected area established in 1973, offering jungle safaris, elephant rides, and bird watching. Home to 68 species of mammals including rare one-horned rhinoceros and Bengal tigers.
Langtang National Park
Nepal's first Himalayan national park covers 1,710 km² in Rasuwa district. Famous for trekking routes with stunning mountain views, alpine forests, and glacial lakes. Home to endangered red pandas and snow leopards.
Economy
Tourism
The economic backbone with over 1 million international visitors annually (pre-pandemic). Cultural tourism in Kathmandu Valley, nature tourism in Chitwan, and trekking/adventure tourism in northern districts.
Services
The province hosts major financial institutions, IT companies, education centers, and healthcare facilities. Government services in Kathmandu contribute significantly to employment.
Agriculture & Industry
Rice, wheat, and vegetable farming in valley and surrounding areas. Industrial zones in Balaju, Patan, and Bhaktapur produce textiles, handicrafts, and consumer goods. Hydropower projects harness mountain rivers.
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