Cultural Etiquette
Some tips on the common etiquettes practiced by Nepali people should be useful to visitors.
- The form of greeting in Nepal is “Namaste” performing by joining both palms together. It literally means “the divine in me salutes the divine in you”.
- As a mark of respect Nepalis usually take their shoes off before entering someone’s house or place of worship.
- Food or material that has been touched by another person’s mouth is considered impure or “jutho” and, therefore, is not accepted unless among close friends or family.
- Touching something with feet or using the left hand to give or take may not be considered auspicious.
- Women wearing skimpy outfits are frowned upon especially in the rural parts of the country.
- As a part of the tradition some Hindu temples do not allow non Hindus to enter.
- Leather articles are prohibited inside some temple areas.
- Walking around temples or stupas is traditionally done clockwise.
- To avoid conflict photography is carried out after receiving permission from the object or person.
- Public displays of affection are considered scandalous.
- Nodding of head means “Yes” while shaking of head means a “No”. A slight dangling of head from left to right means “OK”.
More Information about Nepal
- Mountaineering
- Trekking
- Rock Climbing
- Rafting/ Kayaking/ Canoeing
- Jungle Safari
- Hunting
- Bird Watching
- Paragliding / Ultra light / Cable Car
- Mountain Flights
- Mountain Biking
- Bungee Jumping / Canyoing
- Boating / Fishing / Angling
- Horse Riding / Pony Trek
- Golf
- Pilgrimage
- City Tours
- Nightlife / Clubbing
- Dining
- Shopping
- Events / Festivals
- Special Interest (Ayurveda, Meditation, Yoga, Spa)
![Nepal - Tourist Activities](../../images/rock-climbing-nepal-sml.jpg)