The earliest Nepali settlement in Basingstoke dates back to around 2003, when the first Nepalese families began to make this area their home. As the community gradually grew, the Basingstoke Nepalese Community (BNC) was established in 2006 by a group of dedicated volunteer founders, during a time of significant challenge, to support Nepalese people and preserve their culture in the United Kingdom.

Since its establishment, BNC has grown steadily and now has approximately 700 active, fee-paying members who contribute voluntarily to our shared mission. Our vision is to build an inclusive, diverse, and sustainable community that supports and empowers its members.

Membership in BNC offers valuable opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, engage in cultural activities, and contribute to community development. BNC operates as a registered charity and not-for-profit organisation, committed to upholding community responsibility and service.

The relationship between Nepal and the United Kingdom has deep historical roots, with diplomatic ties established in 1816. The distinguished service of the Gurkhas in the British Army began formally on 24 April 1815, following the Anglo-Nepalese War. Today, British Gurkhas remain a fully integrated and highly respected part of the British Armed Forces, symbolising the enduring bond between the two nations.

Over 160,000 Gurkhas served in the British-Gurkha Brigade and other units during the First and Second World Wars, with around 43,000 making the ultimate sacrifice. In recognition of their extraordinary bravery, Gurkha soldiers have been awarded 13 Victoria Crosses—the highest honour for gallantry in the United Kingdom.

Currently, around 150,000 Nepalese people live in the UK, many of whom are ex-Gurkha servicemen and their families. The UK Government’s decision to allow their settlement in the UK is a profound recognition of their service. As a community, we share a responsibility to support their integration while honouring both British values and Nepalese cultural heritage.

A significant number of BNC members are former British-Gurkha servicemen who have served the United Kingdom, its people, and the Crown with distinction. In light of this proud history, it is essential that the Nepalese community continues to have a strong voice and a sense of belonging within a diverse and inclusive society.

BNC is a multicultural and multilingual organisation that actively organises cultural celebrations, community events, and support programmes in Basingstoke and beyond. While we continue to face challenges, we are equally presented with opportunities to grow and strengthen our impact.

As one of the largest Nepalese communities in the UK, our objective is to foster a stronger sense of inclusion, unity, and cultural integration.

United we stand, divided we fall.

Basingstoke Nepalese Community, UK