No, Nepal no longer has a royal family. The monarchy in Nepal was officially abolished, marking a significant shift in the nation's political landscape.
The End of a Royal Era
The institution of the monarchy, which had existed for centuries in Nepal, came to an end on May 28, 2008. This historic decision was made by the 1st Constituent Assembly, which formally declared Nepal a federal democratic republic. This move concluded a long period of political transformation and civil unrest.
Following the nationwide abolition of the central monarchy, the subnational monarchies that existed within various regions of Nepal were also dissolved. By October 2008, royal rule ceased in areas such as:
- Mustang
- Bajhang
- Salyan
- Jajarkot
This complete dismantling of royal power across all levels ushered in a new republican era for the country.
Transition to a Republic
The transition from a Hindu kingdom to a secular federal republic was a complex process, driven by various political movements and a decade-long civil war. The abolition of the monarchy was a pivotal moment, symbolizing the culmination of efforts to establish a more inclusive and democratic system of governance.
The timeline below highlights key events in this transition:
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Monarchy Abolished | May 28, 2008 | Nepal declared a Federal Democratic Republic. |
| Subnational Monarchies Abolished | October 2008 | Royal rule ended in regions like Mustang, Bajhang, Salyan, and Jajarkot. |
| Formation of 1st Constituent Assembly | April 2008 (election) | Voted to abolish the monarchy. |
Today, Nepal operates under a multi-party parliamentary system, with a President as the head of state and a Prime Minister as the head of government. The former royal palace, Narayanhity Palace, has since been converted into a public museum, further cementing the end of the royal family's reign.
For more information on Nepal's political system, you can refer to resources on the Government of Nepal.
