When meeting people, fold your hands together and say “Namaste” (or “Namaskar”) as a respectful greeting.
Dress Modestly
Wear modest clothing, especially when visiting temples or rural areas. For both men and women, it’s best to cover your shoulders and knees.
Remove Shoes Before Entering Temples or Homes
Always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, a temple, or religious sites.
Ask for Permission Before Taking Photos
While Nepal is incredibly photogenic, always ask for permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas or at religious sites.
Respect Local Customs and Traditions
Be mindful of Nepalese customs, especially during religious festivals or rituals. Avoid touching offerings or objects meant for worship.
Use Your Right Hand to Give or Receive
In Nepal, the right hand is considered clean and should be used when giving or receiving something, such as money, gifts, or food.
Be Patient and Polite
Nepal operates at a slower pace, and things may not happen as quickly as you’re used to. Be patient and kind when dealing with delays or slow services.
Bargain Politely in Markets
Bargaining is common in Nepalese markets, but do so with respect. It’s a cultural norm but should be done with a smile and good-natured negotiation.
Follow Trekking Etiquette
Respect local rules on trekking trails, greet fellow trekkers, and yield to porters and animals on narrow paths.
Show Respect to Monks and Elders
Show respect to Buddhist monks, nuns, and elders by giving them space, avoiding pointing feet at them, and speaking politely.
Don’ts:
Don’t Point Your Feet Towards People or Religious Objects
Pointing your feet towards people, temples, or religious icons is considered disrespectful. Avoid stepping over offerings or objects of worship.
Don’t Touch Someone’s Head
In Nepalese culture, the head is considered sacred, so avoid touching people’s heads, even in a friendly manner.
Don’t Offer Food With Your Left Hand
The left hand is considered unclean, so avoid using it to offer food or objects to others.
Don’t Wear Revealing Clothes in Sacred Places
Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothes when visiting temples, monasteries, or during religious ceremonies.
Don’t Display Affection in Public
Public displays of affection (like kissing or hugging) are frowned upon in Nepalese culture, so it’s best to keep interactions respectful in public areas.
Don’t Enter Hindu Temples If You’re Not a Hindu
Some Hindu temples (such as Pashupatinath) do not permit non-Hindus to enter the inner sanctum. Always check and respect the rules.
Don’t Offer Money to Monks or Nuns
While donations are appreciated, it’s better to give through the official donation boxes rather than offering money directly to monks or nuns.
Don’t Step Over Someone’s Outstretched Legs
It’s considered impolite to step over someone’s outstretched legs or sit with your feet pointing towards others.
Don’t Raise Your Voice or Get Angry
Nepalese people value calm and respect in social interactions. Raising your voice or showing frustration is seen as bad behavior.
Don’t Consume Alcohol or Smoke in Sacred Places
Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol near temples, stupas, or religious ceremonies as it is considered highly disrespectful.
