Nepal is a diverse country in terms of its people, castes, culture, religion, and even its natural landscapes. It stretches across the Himalayan range and features serene flatlands, verdant hills, and majestic mountains.
For this reason, many travelers visit Nepal multiple times or return to specific and popular places, even when traveling alone or staying for a single time.
This also means it’s more convenient to understand this beautiful country’s customs, traditions, and norms if you are traveling to make your journey more enjoyable.
Here are some essential dos and don’ts for visitors traveling in Nepal.
- To show gratitude and respect, use both of your hands rather than one when giving or receiving something, even money. It is very practicable in Nepal.
- Remove your shoes; especially leather shoes when entering a temple or monastery
- Remember not to point with a single finger but use a flat extended hand especially to indicate a sacred object or place.
- The traditional Nepali greeting is “Namaste,” with palms pressed together in a gesture of respect.
- In Nepal, people (especially women) do not normally shake hands when they greet one another, but instead press palms together in a prayer-like gesture known as a “Namaste” greeting is preferable.
- A cow is the National animal of Nepal; in our culture, we regard it as our Goddess and wealth. So, be mindful of eating beef in front of Nepalese people, especially Hindus and Buddhists as the cow is sacred here.
- Always use latrines in safe and discreet locations designated along the trail.
- It is better not to touch offerings or persons when they are on their way to shrines, especially if you are non-Hindu.
- People from other countries, especially Western people are strictly prohibited from entering into some of the Hindu temples.
- Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting a temple or monastery.
- Use an open palm to point instead of a finger.
- Do not take photographs of locals, holy shrines & temples unless local people consent.
- Don’t buy illegal or endangered species products.
- Address elders with respectful titles.
- Cover sensitive areas when bathing in public.
- Refrain from seeking services related to prostitution.
- Avoid smoking in religious settings.
- Support responsible practices and be committed to sustainability when traveling.
- Remember eating with hands is normal in Nepal.
- Acts of affection and handholding in public between women and men are not appreciated.
- Walk around stupas clockwise, so that the outer walls are always on your right. If you encounter a stone wall covered with Tibetan inscriptions, do the same: Walk past with the wall on your right (and don’t take any of the stones).
- Raising your voice or shouting is seen as extremely bad manners in Nepal. It can only make a problem worse.
- Do not give anything to children or the elderly, as this will only stimulate behavior and they will start being dependent on it.
- If you want to help, give your donation to a trustworthy charity or a school. Your tour company can advise you on this.
- Don’t 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 an offense among Nepalese.
