Religion is interwoven into every aspect of daily life in Nepal, characterized by profound tolerance and syncretism between its two major faiths.
* **Religious Composition:** Hinduism is the majority religion (approx. 81%), followed by Buddhism (9%), Islam (4.4%), Kiratism (3.1%), and Christianity (1.4%). * **Hinduism:** Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu is one of the most sacred Shiva temples globally. The Muktinath temple in Mustang is highly revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. * **Buddhism:** Lumbini (Buddha's birthplace), along with the great stupas of Boudhanath and Swayambhunath, are central to both Theravada and Mahayana/Vajrayana practitioners. * **Syncretism:** Many deities, such as Kumari (the Living Goddess) and Matsyendranath, are worshipped equally by both Hindus and Buddhists in the Kathmandu Valley.