Non-Rectangular National Flags
Nepal is the world's only current non-rectangular national flag. Discover its double-pennon shape, symbols and constitutional construction.
Nepal — the unique national flag
Nepal's flag consists of two joined triangular pennons rather than a rectangle. It is the only current sovereign national flag with this non-quadrilateral outline.
Two pennons instead of a rectangle
The unusual outline reflects a long South Asian tradition of triangular banners. Nepal retained this distinctive form while most other modern states adopted rectangular national flags.
The moon and sun
The upper pennon carries a crescent moon and the lower pennon carries a sun. These symbols give the flag a particularly recognisable appearance and connect the design with Nepal's older traditions.
A flag defined by geometry
Nepal's constitution gives detailed instructions for constructing the flag. Its shape is therefore not simply an artistic suggestion: the geometry is formally specified.
Why Nepal stands alone
Switzerland and Vatican City are square, but a square is still a four-sided rectangle. Nepal goes further by having a genuinely non-rectangular national outline.