Table of Contents
What is API Development?
API stands for Application Programming Interface a way for different software systems to talk to each other.
API development is the process of designing, building, and maintaining APIs that:
- Connect websites and apps
- Automate processes between systems
- Enable mobile apps to sync with backend servers
- Power integrations with third-party services
Why API Development Matters for Nepali Businesses
As Nepal goes digital, APIs are at the core of innovation. Whether it’s enabling:
- Bank integrations
- eCommerce transactions
- Mobile apps
- Government platforms
- Logistics and booking systems
APIs allow businesses to scale, connect, and automate faster than ever.
Types of APIs Built in Nepal
| API Type | Description |
|---|---|
| RESTful API | Most common – easy to use and scalable |
| GraphQL | Flexible querying – used in modern SPAs |
| SOAP | Legacy enterprise applications |
| Webhooks | For real-time data sync (e.g., payment updates) |
| Public APIs | For open data access (e.g., tourism APIs) |
| Private APIs | Internal system integrations |
Common Use Cases for APIs in Nepal
- eSewa/Khalti/ConnectIPS Integration
- eCommerce backends for WooCommerce, Shopify, custom Laravel stores
- Mobile backend APIs for Flutter, Android, iOS apps
- Document management and digital signature services
- Ride-sharing platforms and booking systems
Technologies Used in API Development
| Tech Stack | Tools Used |
|---|---|
| PHP | Laravel, Lumen, Symfony |
| JavaScript | Node.js, Express, NestJS |
| Python | Django REST Framework, FastAPI |
| Java | Spring Boot |
| Go | Gin, Fiber |
| Auth | OAuth2, JWT, API keys |
| Docs | Swagger, Postman, Redoc |
Laravel and Node.js are most popular in Nepal for REST APIs.
API Security Standards Followed
Nepali developers are increasingly using:
- JWT (JSON Web Tokens) for auth
- OAuth2 for third-party integrations
- HTTPS/SSL for encrypted communication
- Rate Limiting and IP Whitelisting
- Input validation and sanitization
Security is critical, especially for fintech and health tech APIs.
Mobile App and API Integration
Every mobile app needs a backend. In Nepal:
- Flutter + Laravel/Node.js is a common combo
- Firebase used for real-time sync (but not always preferred)
- APIs support user auth, notifications, transactions, and analytics
Best Practices for API Development
- Use versioning (e.g., /api/v1/)
- Always return proper HTTP codes
- Add Swagger or Postman documentation
- Secure endpoints with middleware
- Write unit and integration tests
- Log and monitor API traffic
Challenges in Nepal’s API Ecosystem
- Lack of public/open APIs from government
- Low awareness of standards in small firms
- Delays in legacy system integrations
- Poor documentation culture in agencies
But it's improving rapidly with more global exposure.
Conclusion
API development in Nepal is fueling the country’s digital growth. From fintech and mobile apps to enterprise software and e-commerce APIs are everywhere. Whether you need a robust backend for your startup or want to integrate with third-party services, Nepal offers affordable and skilled API development services.
March 26, 2025
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