1. Mountainous Regions (Himalayas):
- Harsh climate with cold temperatures, high snowfall, and rugged terrain, especially above 4,000 meters.
- Sparsely populated due to challenging living conditions.
- Settlements usually located in sheltered valleys or on lower mountain slopes where cultivation is possible.
2. Hilly Regions (Middle Hills):
- Temperate climate with variations in temperature based on altitude.
- Moderately densely populated as they offer favorable conditions for human habitation.
- Most of Nepal's population resides in the middle hills due to fertile soils, ample water sources, and moderate climate.
3. Inner Terai and Siwalik Hills:
- Lower temperatures and higher humidity compared to the Outer Terai.
- Moderately densely populated with settlements on river terraces, hill slopes, and valleys.
4. Outer Terai:
- Tropical and subtropical climate characterized by high temperatures, high humidity, and ample rainfall.
- The most densely populated region of Nepal due to favorable conditions for agricultural activities, especially rice cultivation.
5. High Mountain Valleys:
- Pockets of settlements above 3,000 meters featuring unique climatic conditions with high variation in diurnal temperature range, but less precipitation.
Overall, settlement patterns in Nepal are affected by various climate factors including temperature, precipitation, humidity, and topography. Climate influences aspects such as agriculture, accessibility, resource availability, and overall suitability for human habitation across the different regions of the country.
