Some Do's & Don'ts in Nepal

With its diverse ethnicity and traditional beliefs, Nepal has numerous cultural practices that may appear unusual to a person on his/her fist visit to the country. However, to enjoy your stay in this remarkable himalayan country, it is important to take into consideration of the varieties of the cultural aspects of the country. Here is a list of things which may be helpful to you.

1. Before entering a Nepalese home, temple (leather items in Hindu Temples), and monastry remember to remove your shoes.

2. Avoid eating with your left hand and beef is strictly prohibited among Hindus. Do not offer food from your plate, nor eat from a common pot, and avoid touching your lips to a shared drinking vessel.

3. Never touch anything with your feet. and try not to step over or point your feet at another person, a sacred place or a hearth. This is considered and offence among Nepalese.

4. While traveling, dress appropriately. Women should especially avoid dressing in skimpy outfits.

5. Seek permission first before entering a Hindu temple. Many Hindu temples do not allow westerners to enter.

6. Leather articles are prohibited in most religious places.

7.Among Hindus, avoid touching women and holy men instead the traditional palms-together "Namaste" greeting is preferable

8. Walking around temples or stupas is traditionally done clockwise.

9. Take photographs only after receiving permission for the object or person being photographed.

10. Remember, when a person shakes his head from left to right many times, he may mean “NO”

11. Develop a genuine interest to meet and talk to Nepalese people and respect their local customs.

12. Use your both hands to show appreciation and respect rather than one while giving or acepting something from others.

13. Kissing and hugging in public especially between men and women is social offence in Nepal.