Nepal Movies: 25 Essential Films That Define Nepal’s Cinematic Journey

Over the past few decades, Nepal movies have evolved from humble productions into internationally recognized works that capture the essence of the country’s landscapes, cultures, and struggles. These films tell stories of love and loss, political change, rural traditions, and urban realities—all filtered through the lens of Nepali filmmakers with a deep connection to their heritage. Whether it’s the snow-capped beauty of Mustang, the bustling streets of Kathmandu, or the intimate confines of a family home, Nepal movies transport audiences to worlds that feel both personal and universal.

This list presents the 25 highest-rated Nepal movies on IMDb—films that have left a lasting mark on cinema. From groundbreaking dramas to cultural milestones, they represent the creativity, resilience, and storytelling power of Nepal’s film industry.

25. Maruni (2019)

• Runtime: 2h

• Starring: Samragyee RL Shah, Pushpa Khadka

• Director: Nawal Nepal

• Genre: Social Drama, Romance

• IMDb Rating: 7.0

Maruni is an emotionally charged romance that dives deep into the impact of societal pressure on young love. Set in a tight-knit community where reputation is everything, the film follows two lovers fighting against judgment and gossip. Its quiet moments are as powerful as its emotional confrontations, revealing the subtle ways that tradition can both protect and suffocate. Among modern Nepal movies, Maruni stands out for its heartfelt performances and its message about the cost of conformity.

24. Chhakka Panja (2016)

• Runtime: 2h

• Starring: Deepak Raj Giri, Priyanka Karki, Kedar Ghimire

• Director: Deepa Shree Niraula

• Genre: Comedy, Satire

• IMDb Rating: 7.1

One of the most commercially successful Nepal movies of all time, Chhakka Panja uses humor to shine a light on real societal issues. It cleverly tackles migration, marriage expectations, and political disillusionment, all while keeping the audience laughing. The ensemble cast’s chemistry, combined with sharp writing, made it a cultural talking point across the country. Beneath the comedy lies a bittersweet commentary on the everyday struggles of ordinary people.

23. Saanghuro (2013)

• Runtime: 1h30m

• Starring: Dayahang Rai, Nisha Adhikari

• Director: Joes Pandey

• Genre: Social Realism, Drama

• IMDb Rating: 7.1

Saanghuro strips cinema down to its essentials, presenting a raw and intimate portrait of a struggling couple. Confined to a tiny apartment, their lives unfold in a series of tense, emotional exchanges. The film’s minimalism forces viewers to focus on the characters’ faces, gestures, and unspoken words. In the realm of Nepal movies, it’s proof that a small-scale story can leave a large emotional impact.

22. The Red Monsoon (2013)

• Runtime: 1h45m

• Starring: Himali Dixit, Sandip Chhetri

• Director: Eelum Dixit

• Genre: Drama

• IMDb Rating: 7.2

A quiet yet resonant piece of cinema, The Red Monsoon captures moments of change in the lives of Kathmandu’s residents. Its interconnected characters move through the city like rainclouds—drifting, colliding, and sometimes passing each other unnoticed. The film’s slow pacing allows viewers to absorb its atmospheric details, from bustling tea shops to rain-slicked streets. As far as Nepal movies go, it’s a love letter to the city and the fleeting encounters that shape our lives.

21. Uma (2013)

• Runtime: 2h

• Starring: Reecha Sharma, Saugat Malla

• Director: Tsering Rhitar Sherpa

• Genre: Political Drama, Family

• IMDb Rating: 7.2

Set during a period of political upheaval, Uma examines how ideology can fracture even the closest of families. The story follows siblings whose conflicting beliefs force them to make difficult choices. The director uses intimate domestic scenes to show the human cost of political divides. In the history of Nepal movies, Uma is a standout for its ability to blend personal drama with national history.

20. Jhola (2014)

• Runtime: 1h40m

• Starring: Garima Panta, Desh Bhakta Khanal

• Director: Yadav Bhattarai

• Genre: Historical, Social Issue

• IMDb Rating: 7.3

Jhola is a haunting portrayal of the outlawed Sati tradition, where widows were forced to self-immolate. Based on Krishna Dharabasi’s short story, the film delivers a powerful critique of oppressive customs while honoring the resilience of those who fought against them. Through rich period detail and emotional performances, it stands as one of the most socially important Nepal movies ever made.

19. White Sun (Seto Surya) (2016)

• Runtime: 1h29m

• Starring: Dayahang Rai, Asha Magrati, Rabindra Singh Baniya

• Director: Deepak Rauniyar

• Genre: Drama, Political

• IMDb Rating: 7.3

An internationally acclaimed political drama, White Sun deals with the difficult process of reconciliation in post-war Nepal. The story follows a man returning to his mountain village for his father’s funeral, where old political and personal tensions resurface. The majestic landscapes serve as a counterpoint to the intimate human drama. Among Nepal movies, it’s a meditation on forgiveness and the scars that remain after conflict.

18. Kagbeni (2008)

• Runtime: 1h49m

• Starring: Saugat Malla, Deeya Maskey, Nima Rumba

• Director: Bhusan Dahal

• Genre: Horror, Drama

• IMDb Rating: 7.3

Inspired by the classic short story The Monkey’s Paw, Kagbeni blends supernatural tension with Nepali cultural elements. Set in the stunning Mustang region, its vast mountain landscapes provide a haunting backdrop for a tale of greed, regret, and fate. The film’s deliberate pacing and atmospheric cinematography create a slow-burning sense of dread that lingers long after the credits roll. In the canon of Nepal movies, Kagbeni is celebrated as a technical milestone that raised the bar for production quality.

17. Loot (2012)

• Runtime: 2h15m

• Starring: Saugat Malla, Dayahang Rai, Karma

• Director: Nischal Basnet

• Genre: Crime, Action

• IMDb Rating: 7.4

A gritty urban crime thriller, Loot follows a group of small-time crooks planning an ambitious bank heist. With snappy dialogue, unexpected twists, and morally ambiguous characters, it redefined what commercial Nepal movies could look like. The raw energy and street-smart storytelling resonated with younger audiences, earning it cult status. Beyond its entertainment value, the film captured the pulse of a rapidly changing Kathmandu.

16. Loot 2 (2017)

• Runtime: 2h

• Starring: Saugat Malla, Dayahang Rai, Karma

• Director: Nischal Basnet

• Genre: Crime, Action

• IMDb Rating: 7.4

The sequel to Loot takes the story to higher stakes, reuniting familiar characters while introducing new rivalries. The action sequences are sharper, the humor darker, and the betrayals more devastating. It’s a rare case where a sequel not only matches but in some ways surpasses the original. Within Nepal movies, Loot 2 reinforced the appetite for smart, stylish crime dramas.

15. Kabaddi (2013)

• Runtime: 2h10m

• Starring: Dayahang Rai, Rishma Gurung

• Director: Rambabu Gurung

• Genre: Romantic Comedy

• IMDb Rating: 7.5

A charming romantic comedy set in the Mustang region, Kabaddi centers on an unrequited love story complicated by village politics and tradition. The humor feels organic, arising from character quirks rather than forced gags. Audiences embraced its mix of laughter, heartache, and stunning scenery. It’s one of the few Nepal movies that perfectly balances rural authenticity with mass appeal.

14. Kabaddi Kabaddi (2015)

• Runtime: 2h

• Starring: Dayahang Rai, Rishma Gurung

• Director: Rambabu Gurung

• Genre: Romantic Comedy

• IMDb Rating: 7.5

Continuing the saga, Kabaddi Kabaddi deepens its characters’ emotional arcs while retaining the humor that made the first film so beloved. The Mustang backdrop once again plays a vital role, enhancing the film’s rustic charm. Sequels in Nepal movies often struggle to maintain freshness, but this one remains as engaging as its predecessor.

13. Darpan Chhaya (2001)

• Runtime: 2h25m

• Starring: Niruta Singh, Dilip Rayamajhi, Uttam Pradhan

• Director: Tulsi Ghimire

• Genre: Romance, Musical

• IMDb Rating: 7.6

An enduring romantic classic, Darpan Chhaya is best remembered for its heart-stirring love story and unforgettable soundtrack. The film explores friendship, sacrifice, and the bittersweet nature of love with emotional sincerity. Even decades later, it holds a special place in the hearts of fans of Nepal movies, symbolizing a golden era in the industry.

12. Basudev (1984)

• Runtime: 2h15m

• Starring: Harihar Sharma, Shakuntala Sharma

• Director: Neer Bikram Shah

• Genre: Drama

• IMDb Rating: 7.6

Adapted from a novel by Dhruba Chandra Gautam, Basudev is a socially conscious drama that examines morality, friendship, and the compromises people make under societal pressure. The film’s strong performances and thoughtful script have helped it endure as one of the most respected Nepal movies of all time.

11. Highway (2012)

• Runtime: 1h20m

• Starring: Saugat Malla, Reecha Sharma

• Director: Deepak Rauniyar

• Genre: Drama, Road Movie

• IMDb Rating: 7.6

Set during a nationwide transportation strike, Highway weaves together multiple storylines of passengers stuck on the road. Through their interactions, the film reveals a cross-section of Nepali society—its hopes, frustrations, and contradictions. It’s a compact yet powerful entry in Nepal movies, celebrated for its ensemble storytelling and realism.

10. Talakjung vs Tulke (2014)

• Runtime: 1h50m

• Starring: Khagendra Lamichhane, Dayahang Rai

• Director: Nischal Basnet

• Genre: Drama

• IMDb Rating: 7.7

A biting social satire, Talakjung vs Tulke follows a man whose aspirations collide with the harsh realities of class and politics. The film is equal parts humorous and tragic, offering commentary on the shifting social landscape of Nepal. It’s a standout example of how Nepal movies can blend entertainment with thought-provoking themes.

9. Pashupati Prasad (2016)

• Runtime: 2h

• Starring: Khagendra Lamichhane, Barsha Siwakoti

• Director: Dipendra K Khanal

• Genre: Drama

• IMDb Rating: 8.0

Pashupati Prasad is a heartfelt tale of a young man who moves to Kathmandu with hopes of clearing his family’s debts. His journey through the city is filled with kindness, loss, and resilience. The film struck a chord with audiences and critics alike, becoming a modern classic in Nepal movies.

8. Bulbul (2019)

• Runtime: 1h37m

• Starring: Swastima Khadka

• Director: Binod Paudel

• Genre: Drama

• IMDb Rating: 8.0

In Bulbul, Swastima Khadka delivers a powerful performance as a female tempo driver navigating life’s challenges in Kathmandu. The film’s quiet power lies in its attention to everyday struggles and its portrayal of female independence. It’s a modern highlight among Nepal movies, celebrated for its feminist perspective.

7. Dying Candle (2016)

• Runtime: 1h50m

• Starring: Srijana Subba, Lakpa Singhi Tamang

• Director: Naresh Kumar KC

• Genre: Drama

• IMDb Rating: 8.1

Set against the backdrop of a remote mountain village, Dying Candle is an intimate family drama about sacrifice, duty, and love. The film’s pacing and character work create a touching portrait of resilience. In Nepal movies, it stands out for its emotional honesty and strong sense of place.

6. Kagaz Patra (2015)

• Runtime: 2h

• Starring: Shilpa Maskey, Najir Hussain

• Director: Samten Bhutia

• Genre: Drama

• IMDb Rating: 8.1

Kagaz Patra examines the emotional toll of migration on both those who leave and those who stay behind. The performances are grounded, and the story resonates with many Nepalis living abroad. As part of the modern wave of Nepal movies, it offers a poignant exploration of separation and identity.

5. The Black Hen (Kalo Pothi) (2015)

• Runtime: 1h30m

• Starring: Khadka Raj Nepali, Sukra Raj Rokaya

• Director: Min Bahadur Bham

• Genre: Drama, War

• IMDb Rating: 8.1

Set during the Maoist insurgency, The Black Hen is a poetic tale of two friends caught in a divided world. Its gentle pace and symbolic storytelling make it a rare combination of political and deeply personal cinema. Among Nepal movies, it’s a festival favorite for its artistry and emotion.

4. Sunakali (2014)

• Runtime: 50m

• Starring: — (Documentary)

• Director: Bhojraj Bhat

• Genre: Documentary, Sports

• IMDb Rating: 8.3

Sunakali tells the inspiring true story of girls from a remote village forming a football team despite societal limitations. The documentary not only follows their athletic journey but also shines a light on broader issues of gender equality. It’s a unique gem in the landscape of Nepal movies for its uplifting message.

3. Himalaya (1999)

• Runtime: 1h48m

• Starring: Thilen Lhondup, Gurgon Kyap

• Director: Eric Valli

• Genre: Adventure, Drama

• IMDb Rating: 8.3

Oscar-nominated Himalaya is a sweeping epic that captures the harsh beauty of life in the Dolpo region. It’s both an adventure story and a portrait of cultural heritage under threat. In visual terms, few Nepal movies can match its grandeur and authenticity.

2. Shirish Ko Phool (1986)

• Runtime: 2h

• Starring: Tulsi Ghimire, Tripti Nadakar

• Director: Tulsi Ghimire

• Genre: Drama

• IMDb Rating: 8.4

A deeply moving story of love, loss, and societal expectation, Shirish Ko Phool remains a cornerstone of Nepali cinema. Decades later, it continues to inspire new generations of filmmakers and viewers. It’s one of the most enduring classics among Nepal movies.

1. Kagbeni (Special Edition) (2008)

• Runtime: 1h49m

• Starring: Saugat Malla, Deeya Maskey

• Director: Bhusan Dahal

• Genre: Drama, Mystery

• IMDb Rating: 8.5

The remastered Kagbeni offers an even more visually striking version of the already celebrated original. Its blend of supernatural intrigue and human drama captures everything that makes Nepal movies memorable: atmosphere, depth, and emotional resonance.

Conclusion: The Lasting Legacy of Nepal Movies

From sweeping Himalayan epics to intimate urban dramas, Nepal movies have proven their ability to speak to audiences far beyond national borders. These 25 films represent the artistic heights, cultural depth, and emotional range that define Nepal’s cinematic identity. They tell stories rooted in tradition but alive to modern realities, offering both entertainment and insight.

For viewers new to the country’s cinema, this list is the perfect starting point—each title a unique window into Nepal’s people, landscapes, and dreams. And for long-time fans, it’s a reminder of just how far Nepal movies have come, and how much promise lies ahead. As more Nepali filmmakers gain recognition on the global stage, the world can look forward to an even richer, more diverse collection of stories from this extraordinary corner of the world.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nepal Movies