However, interest by tourists in art, architecture, and mountain climbing has increased in this region since the 1960's. Today, hikers and mountain climbers use Katmandu, the capital, as a base for expeditions to Mount Everest, as well as for hiking tours in the Middle and High Himalayas. However, Nepal faces major transportation obstacles because of its rugged terrain. Most Nepali farms are small and produce barely enough to support one family. The major crops grown are sugarcane, rice, and maize, with some wheat, potatoes, and vegetables.
Farmers trade any surplus crops for other important items, such as kerosene and salt.
Others supplement their incomes through craft work and tailoring. Nepali culture is primarily Hindu-oriented. Castes may be defined by occupation or by kinship and lineage, although there are exceptions. There is some question as to whether the Awadhi Abadhi even exist as a distinct ethnic group. Some believe that they are simply a landless people who are part of other groups.