 Along with the hosts, the other seven nations from the South Asian region participated in the tournament.India came into the tournament as the reigning champions from the 2011 edition.The draw ceremony took place on 30 July 2013 at Kathmandu's Soaltee Crowne Plaza was attended by a host of dignitaries including All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) Chairman Ganesh Thapa, SAFF President Kazi Salahuddin, Secretary Alberto Colaco and National Sports Council Member-Secretary Yubaraj Lama.