The Gurkhas are soldiers native primarily to Nepal, originating from the hill principality of the Gorkha Kingdom in central Nepal. The term Gurkha is derived from this region. Historically, the Gorkha Kingdom expanded under King Prithvi Narayan Shah in the 18th century, unifying Nepal and laying the foundation for the renowned Gurkha soldiers. These soldiers are traditionally recruited from the hill people of Nepal, who trace their roots back to an 8th- century Hindu warrior, Guru Gorakhnath. The Gurkhas first came into British awareness during the Anglo-Nepalese War from 1814 to 1816, when their military prowess impressed the British East India Company forces. Following the war and the Treaty of Sugauli, the British began recruiting Gurkha soldiers into their armies. Today, Gurkhas serve in the armies of Nepal, India, the United Kingdom, and other countries. In summary, the Gurkhas come from the mountainous region of Nepal, particularly linked to the historical Gorkha Kingdom area.