While traditional sports remain culturally significant, modern international sports have seen a massive surge in popularity, uniting the nation.
* **Cricket:** Cricket is incredibly popular. The Nepal National Cricket Team enjoys massive, passionate support, regularly drawing packed crowds to the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. * **Football:** Another national favorite, with matches primarily hosted at the Dasharath Rangasala Stadium in Kathmandu. Nepal actively competes in the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF). * **Martial Arts:** Nepal has a strong track record in martial arts, particularly Taekwondo, Karate, and Wushu, frequently securing medals in regional Asian competitions. * **Traditional Sports:** *Dandi Biyo* (a game played with two sticks) was historically considered the unofficial national sport before volleyball was officially designated as the national sport in 2017. Elephant polo was historically played in Chitwan but has been phased out due to animal welfare concerns.