The Nepalese immigrants in the United States comprise a comparatively small community, representing the diversity of Nepalese ethnic backgrounds. Culturally, these encompass the three geographical areas of Nepal, popularly known as Himal (high mountainous region bordering the Tibet Autonomous Region of China), Pahad (middle hills), and Tarai (southern flat area bordering India). Despite their geographic, linguistic and ethnic diversities, Nepalese immigrants in the US are collectively known by a single group name 'Nepali'. The word Nepali stands for both the people and the lingua-franca of present day Nepal, a country situated between the two giants of Asia, China and India.
