Day 8: Kathmandu, Nepal
“I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” (Matthew 16:18)
Kathmandu, the capital and largest city of Nepal, is nestled in the scenic Kathmandu Valley at the foot of the Himalayas. With a history dating back over 2,000 years, Kathmandu has been a key center for trade, culture, religion, and power in South Asia. Once part of ancient Hindu and Buddhist kingdoms, it became Nepal’s capital when the country was unified in the late 18th century.
For centuries, Nepal was a Hindu kingdom, closed off to the outside world. In 2008, the monarchy was officially abolished, and Nepal became a secular democratic republic, slowly opening up to outside influence—including the gospel. This development was seen as an answer to the prayers of many believers in Nepal. A season of open opportunity for Christian ministry has now shifted into a time of deep concern, as religious freedom faces increasing restrictions.
Rich in religious and cultural heritage, Kathmandu is filled with temples, stupas (Buddhist shrines), and festivals. The dominant religions are Hinduism (about 81%) and Buddhism (around 9%), often blended together in everyday life. Christianity is a small but growing minority, now estimated at 1.4% of the population.
Religious identity is deeply tied to family, heritage, and community expectations. Following Jesus often means social rejection, family pressure, or persecution—especially for ethnic Nepalis from Hindu backgrounds.
Despite opposition, the church in Nepal is growing faster than almost anywhere else in South Asia, especially among young people and in rural areas.
In Kathmandu, this growth is mirrored by a hunger for truth and spiritual transformation, especially in the aftermath of the devastating 2015 earthquake, which opened many hearts to the gospel.
“Following Jesus often means social rejection, family pressure, or
persecution …”
DID YOU KNOW?
- Kathmandu hosts a centuries-old tradition of worshiping a young girl as the “Kumari,” or living goddess—a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist belief.
- For those traveling to Mount Everest and other Himalayan trekking routes, Kathmandu is the main entry point.
- Some neighborhoods have more temples than homes.
- Despite being a developing country, Kathmandu’s youth are highly active online, presenting powerful digital gospel opportunities.
- The primary and official language spoken in Kathmandu is Nepali. While Nepali is the official language, Newar is also spoken.
HOW TO PRAY
- Pray for the Nepal Christian Society (NCS) as it seeks to provide a forum for prayer, sharing, unity, and cooperative ministries.
- Persecution in Nepal is growing, not only from religious authorities but also within families and communities. Believers often face rejection and pressure from those closest to them. Pray for grace, strength, and perseverance for those who suffer for their faith.
- Ask God to open hearts so that Christians may be recognized for their positive impact on society.
- Lift up the work of advocate bodies striving to defend the legal and religious rights of believers—especially in cases of arrest, evangelism, discrimination, and property rights.
- Many young people are disillusioned by traditional religion and open to new ideas. Pray for digital evangelism, student outreach, and youth discipleship programs to thrive.
- Although Nepal is officially secular, anti-conversion laws make evangelism risky. Pray for the protection of religious freedom and the courage to proclaim Christ wisely and lovingly.
- Pray for various Bible translation projects that are underway. Pray that as people experience reading the Word in their heart language for the first time, their lives will be forever transformed.