Originally known as a Hindu Kingdom, Nepal became a secular state in 2006. About 80% of the population follow Hinduism, making Nepal a country with the highest percentage of Hindu followers. Buddhism, though a minority is also an important religion in the country because of a historical link to the country. Siddhartha Gautama, the man who was enlightened to be the Buddha was born in a small village in Nepal. These two religions have co-existed down the ages and many Hindu temples share the same complex as, Buddhist shrines. Hindu and Buddhist worshippers may regard the same god with different names while performing religious rites.

 

Apart from Hinduism and Buddhism, many other religions like Islam, Christianity, and Bon are practiced here. Some of the earliest inhabitants like the Kirats practice their own kind of religion based on ancestor worship and the Tharus practice animism. Over the years, Hinduism and Buddhism have been influenced by these practices that have been modified to form a synthesis of newer beliefs. Nepal is rich is culture and tradition. It holds seven UNESCO World Heritage sites.