Some Do’s & Dont’s in Nepal

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 tips, which may be helpful to you.

1. The form of greeting in Nepal is ‘namaste’ and is performed by joining the palms together. Some ladies may not like shaking hands with men. So, please greet them by ‘Namaste’.
2. Before entering a Nepalese home, temple and stupa remember to remove your shoes.
3. Be careful not to use your spoon, fork or hand being used for your eating to touch other's food, plate, cooking utensil or the serving dish.
4. 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.
5. Never touch anything with your feet. This is considered an offence among Nepalese.
6. While traveling, dress appropriately. Women should especially avoid dressing in skimpy outfits.
7. Seek permission first before entering a Hindu temple. Some Hindu temples do not allow westerners or non-Hindus to enter.
8. Leather articles are prohibited to be taken inside the temple precinct.
9. Walking around temples or stupas is traditionally done clockwise.
10. Take photographs only after receiving permission for the object or person being photographed.
11. Public displays of affection between man and woman are frowned upon. Do not do something that is totally alien to our environment like kissing in      public places.
12. Remember many times, when a person shakes his head from left to right, he may mean, ‘Yes’.
13. Develop a genuine interest to meet and talk to Nepalese people and respect their local customs. You will have a great time with them.
14. Exchange money only through the authorized banks and moneychangers.
15. Insist on receipt after exchanging money.
16. Make sure you do no buy banned wildlife products and artifacts more than 100 years old. In such cases, you are required to have special certification from the concerned Govt. authorities.
17. Do no show off your money and valuable. Always maintain small money in a separate pocket/wallet for the frequent expenses.
18. Do not encourage begging and high tipping