Cultural Do’s and Don’ts in Nepal

Respect the culture of Nepal as if it was your own culture!

A mindful traveller is always concerned about the dos and don’ts of a country they visit for the first time. What to expect from that culture and what is taboo is of utmost curiosity in their mind. Whether trekking in the mountains or going around in cities and towns, you do not need to worry too much as The Nepalese are gracious hosts and have been used to tourists for long enough not to be too offended if they make mistakes. We usually laugh it off.

Here are pointers to keep in mind.

Greet anyone of all ages and at all times of the day with “Namaste,” we will say Namaste back or at least give you a broad smile. Women in villages are not used to shaking hands, so join both palms and greet them with Namaste. There are a few versions of Namaste’s meaning, one of which is – I bow before you.

Take your shoes off when visiting a home, Temple, or Monastery, and cover up your legs and upper arms. Avoid smoking inside sacred institutions. Avoid touching offerings or holy objects. Ask for permission before taking photos; if possible, avoid using flash.

Always go clockwise when walking around religious monuments, keeping the monuments to your right side.

Use both hands, whether giving or receiving, as a gesture of respect, even if it is money.

It is good to bring a Polaroid camera if you plan on taking photos of people. I think it is fair that you give a Polaroid photo to the person after taking their picture with your smartphone or camera; that way, they have something to remember you by.

Do not point your finger at a person, especially at religious monuments; instead, use the flat back of your hand to indicate the person or a sacred object. Also, please do not use your foot to point at anyone or anything; it is the ultimate show of disrespect.

Use your right hand if you need to use your fingers to eat, as the left hand is considered unclean.

You are eating something delicious, and you want your Nepali friend to try or when you cannot finish your plate of food – Do not offer it to a local. Food, once eaten by someone else, is considered impure.

It is common to see two guys holding hands, as they are good friends, whereas a man and woman holding hands or showing affection is frowned upon.

Remain calm and do not raise your voice or show anger. It is considered an offensive manner, and it can only worsen matters.

If a child asks for a pen, money, a balloon, or even food – refrain from giving them. It all started with early travellers to Nepal with good intentions. But, unfortunately, they saw how little the children had here and gave them pencils, pens, bubble gums, etcetera; this has taught children to beg.

Do not bargain for room or food while on a trek; it is only a matter of pennies. To you, it is a game to see what you can get away with; to the lodge owners, it is their livelihood. Would you please respect that?

These practices are similar in Bhutan, India, and Tibet.

Note: Do not buy antiques or/and products made from endangered animals; you can end up in jail.