Rais an Limbus are known as the Kirati. The Kiratis are one of the most ancient people are ruled Kathmandu valley centuries ago. The traditional home of the Rai people is called Majh - Kirat comprising the eastern hill districts of Solokhumbu, Okhaldunga, Khotang, Bhojpur, Udayapur, Dhankuta, and some in Terhathum. The Limbus also have an area of their own, known as "Pallo Kirat" or ‘Limbuwan". Their native areas of Nepal include Terhathum, Dhankuta, Taplejung, Ilam, and Pachthar districts.

These castes have similarities in physical appearance and can easily be distinguished from other castes. Their main occupation is farming. Some serve in the English, Indian and Nepali armies and some are starting to enter politics.