Nepal’s 23 million people belong to 40 ethnic groups. If the Newars are indigenous to the Kathmandu Valley, the sturdy Sherpas, known for their climbing skills, inhabit the Everest region. Brahmins and Chhetris are scattered across the hills and valleys while the Tamangs live in the hills surrounding the Kathmandu Valley. Also inhabiting the hills are the Gurungs, Limbus, Magars and Rais of the Gurkha fame. The Terai is home to the Maithili, Bhojpuri and Tharu people.