The Northern Himalayan People :- In the northern
region of high Himalayas, the Tibetan speaking, the Sherpas, the
Dolpas, the Lopas, the Baragaonlis, the Manangis live in different
settlements scattered along the country. The Sherpas are mainly
confined in the east in the Solu and Khumbu region. The
Baragaonlis and the Lopas live in the semi- deserted area of the
upper and lower Mustang in the part of the Tibetan plateau in the
rain shadow area; the Managis in the Manang district and the
adajcent areas; and the Dolpas in the highest settlements on the
earth in the Dolpa district of Nepal ( in the west) at an altitude
of above 4000 m.
The Middle Hills and Valley People :- In the middle hills and
valleys, there coexists numerous ethnic groups. Among them are the
Magars, Gurungs, Tamangs, Sunuwars, Newars, Thakalis, Chepangs and
majority of Brahmans and Chhetris. The Brahmans and Chhetris have
long dominance in all pervading social , religious and political
realms. There are also some occupational castes e.g. the Damai (
tailor) , Sarki ( Cobbler), Kami (Blacksmith) and Sunar
(Goldsmiths). Though, there exists numerous dialects, the language
of unification is the national language , Nepali, an Indo- Aryan
language.
Ethnic Diversity in the Kathmandu Valley :- Kathmandu Valley
represents a culture cauldron of the country. The people from
different stereotypes, come together, presents traveller a unique
melting pot of cultures. Kathmandu is predominantly inhabited by
the Newars. These people have managed to integrate both Hinduism
and Buddhism to such an exceptional extent that their culture has
developed into a unique one. Today many Newars are traders. Newar
families , who had resided in the valley for centuries , had also
travelled across the country to develop trade.
The Terai People :- The main ethnic groups in Terai region include
the Tharus, Darai, Kumhal, Majhi and other populace which have
roots in India. They speak different north Indian dialects -
Maithili, Bhojpuri etc. The fertile plain of Terai, generally
known as " granary of Nepal" has great agricultural value. Most of
the inhabitants live on agriculture. There are , however, some
occupational castes e.g. Majhi ( Fisherman), Kumhal (Potter) and
Danuwar (Cart Driver). |