Agriculture is the foundation of rural life in Nepal, directly supporting the livelihoods of nearly 60% of the population. The varied agro-climatic zones dictate farming practices. In the fertile Terai plains, often called the "granary of Nepal," farmers cultivate the bulk of the nation's staple crops: rice, wheat, sugarcane, and jute.
In the middle hills, agriculture becomes more challenging, relying on intricately carved terraces that cascade down mountainsides. Here, maize, millet, barley, and potatoes are primary crops. Cash crops have become increasingly important for hill farmers, with regions in eastern Nepal gaining international recognition for high-quality orthodox tea, large cardamom, and ginger.
Livestock plays an essential role in both the diet and the economy. Cattle and buffalo are kept for milk and draft power (though cattle are sacred and not consumed), while goats and poultry are widely raised for meat. At higher altitudes, yaks are bred for milk, wool, and transport. While organic farming is traditionally practiced in remote areas by necessity, there is a growing, intentional movement toward certified organic agriculture to supply urban markets and international buyers.