Nepal Traditions - Do's and Don'ts
for the Visitor
- With its diverse ethnic groups
and traditional beliefs, Nepal has numerous
cultural practices that may appear unusual to a
person on his/her first visit to the country.
However, to enjoy your stay in this remarkable
country of white Himalayas and sparkling rivers,
it is important to take into consideration the
different cultural aspects of the country. Here
is a list of things which may be helpful to you.
- The form of greeting in Nepal
is "namaste" and is performed by
joining the palms together.
- Before entering a Nepalese
home, temple, and stupa remember to remove your
shoes.
- Be careful not to use your
spoon, fork or hands being used for your eating
to touch other’s food, plate, cooking
utensil or the serving dish. Do not eat from
other people’s plate and do not drink from
other people’s bottle or glass. It is
considered impure by the Nepalese.
- Never touch anything with your
feet. This is considered an offence among
Nepalese.
- While travelling, dress
appropriately. Women should especially avoid
dressing in skimpy outfits.
- Seek permission first before
entering a Hindu temple. Many Hindu temples do
not allow westerners to enter.
- Leather articles are
prohibited to be taken inside the temple
precinct.
- Walking around temples or
stupas is traditionally done clockwise.
- Take photographs only after
receiving permission for the object or person
being photographed.
- Public displays of affection
between man and woman are frowned upon. Do not do
something that is totally alien to our
environment.
- Remember, many times, when a
person shakes his head from left to right, he may
mean "Yes".
- Develop a genuine interest to
meet and talk to Nepalese people and respect
their local customs.
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