In South Asia, between China and India, lies Nepal. Here, you'll find lowlands and the highest mountain peaks in the world. Nepal has endured years of war, and many people live in poverty. The country is home to exotic animals, such as tigers, snow leopards, rhinos, and freshwater dolphins. These animals are all endangered, though. People cut down forests for homes and farmlands as the population grows, displacing the animals. When the trees are cut down, the soil blows away, so crops don't grow as well.
Nepal is the birthplace of Buddhism, although many people in Nepal are Hindu. Like India, the people of Nepal have used a caste system or social ranking system for many years. Although illegal, the caste system endures, especially in poor, rural areas. The social rankings include the Hindu caste, the Bhotes, the hill tribes, including Sherpas, and the Newar.
