Do’s and Don’t
With its diverse ethnic groups and ages-old traditional beliefs, Nepal has numerous cultural practices that may appear bizarre to a person on his/her first visit to the country. However, to enjoy your stay in the remarkable country of the magnificent Himalayas and sparkling rivers, it is important to take into consideration the different cultural aspects of the country. Here is a list of things, which may be helpful to you:
- The form of greeting in Nepal is “Namaste” or “Namaskar” to elders and is performed by joining the palms together.
- Before entering a Nepali home, temple, and stupa, always remember to take off your shoes.
- Be careful not to use your spoon, fork or hand you are eating with to touch other’s food, plate, cooking utensil or the serving dish. 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 Nepali people.
- Do not lick your fingers after eating any food.Also, blowing your nose loudly in public can be considered outrageously gross by some.
- Never touch anything with your feet.This is considered an offence among Nepali people.
- Dress appropriately while travelling. Women should especially avoid dressing in skimpy outfits.
- Seek permission first before entering a Hindu temple. Many Hindu temples do not allow entrance for westerners or non-Hindus. Leather articles are strictly prohibited inside the temple premises.
- Walking around temples or stupas is traditionally done clockwise.
- Take photographs only after receiving permission for the object or person being photographed.
- Public displays of affection between man and woman are frowned upon. Do not do something that is totally alien to our environment.
- Expressing sexual feelings/desires in public is unacceptable in the Nepali culture.
- Remember, many times, when a person shakes his head from left to right, he may mean “YES”.
- Develop genuine interest to meet and talk to Nepali people and respect their local customs.
- When shooting in Nepal, it is advisable that you do not have anything in the script that offends Nepal’s national institutions, religion, customs and culture.The film must not be deemed as a threat to its security.