In Nepal's 2021 census, which province was most populous?

In Nepal’s 2021 census, Bagmati Province was the most populous province, with 6,116,866 people.

Bagmati narrowly surpassed Madhesh Province, which recorded 6,114,600 residents—a difference of only 2,266 people. The province includes Kathmandu Valley and Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, helping explain its exceptionally large population and economic importance. Its provincial capital is Hetauda, while Kathmandu is its largest city.

Nepal’s 2021 census was the first national census conducted under the country’s new federal structure of seven provinces, 77 districts, and 753 local levels. Bagmati accounted for roughly 20.97% of Nepal’s 29,164,578 residents. A common mistake is to assume Madhesh was largest because it has a higher population density; Bagmati led in total population, while Madhesh was much denser.