Physical Map of Nepal
This physical map of Nepal shows the country's topography, including the mighty Himalayas, major rivers, lakes, and three distinct geographic regions from the lowland Terai to the world's highest peaks.
Geographic Regions of Nepal
Nepal is divided into three main geographic regions running east to west, each with distinct characteristics:
The northern belt above 4,000m, covering 15% of Nepal's area. Home to 8 of the world's 14 peaks over 8,000m including Mount Everest (8,848.86m).
The central belt between 300-4,000m, covering 68% of Nepal's area. Contains Kathmandu Valley, Pokhara, and most population centers.
The southern lowland plains below 300m, covering 17% of Nepal's area. The most fertile and densely populated region.
Eight-Thousanders in Nepal
Nepal is home to eight of the world's fourteen peaks above 8,000 meters:
| Mountain | Height | World Rank | First Ascent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Everest (Sagarmatha) | 8,848.86m | 1st | 1953 |
| Kanchenjunga | 8,586m | 3rd | 1955 |
| Lhotse | 8,516m | 4th | 1956 |
| Makalu | 8,485m | 5th | 1955 |
| Cho Oyu | 8,188m | 6th | 1954 |
| Dhaulagiri I | 8,167m | 7th | 1960 |
| Manaslu | 8,163m | 8th | 1956 |
| Annapurna I | 8,091m | 10th | 1950 |
Major Rivers
Nepal's major rivers originate in the Himalayas and flow southward to join the Ganges in India:
- Koshi River - Major river system in eastern Nepal (also called Sapta Koshi)
- Gandaki River - Central Nepal, originating near the Annapurna massif
- Karnali River - Longest river in Nepal, originating in Tibet
- Bagmati River - Sacred river flowing through Kathmandu
- Trishuli River - Popular for white water rafting
Major Lakes
- Rara Lake - Largest lake in Nepal (Mugu District)
- Phewa Lake - Second largest, located in Pokhara
- Begnas Lake - Near Pokhara
- Tilicho Lake - One of highest lakes in the world (4,919m)
- Gosaikunda - Sacred alpine lake
Elevation Profile
Extreme Points
- Highest Point: Mount Everest - 8,848.86m
- Lowest Point: Kechana Kalan - 59m
- Elevation Range: 8,789.86m (largest in world)
Key Physical Facts
- Total Area: 147,516 km²
- East-West Length: 885 km
- North-South Width: 145-241 km
- Glaciers: Over 3,800