Tips for the Culturally Sensitive Traveler

Thursday, 21 May 2009 06:38

It is always a good idea to learn about the culture and tradition of the place you’re traveling to. As with any country, Nepal has its own set of unique culture and tradition, distinctly different from the West. Here are some of the most important cultural tips to consider, especially in villages:

• To greet in a traditional manner, place your palms together in a prayer style and say “namaste” or “namaskar”
• It is not acceptable to wear revealing clothes like shorts, lycra, low-necks and so on. This applies particularly to women. Public nudity, even while bathing, is punishable by law. When swimming in the river, it is suggested that women wear a one-piece swim suit.
• Always remove your shoes before entering a Nepali home.
• Dress conservatively and keep shoulders and knees covered in a temple (and remove your shoes before entering). Also you should note that cows are a sacred animal in Nepal and injuring or killing them is an offence. You will find cows roaming freely all over the place.To greet in a traditional manner, place your palms together in a prayer style and say “namaste” or “namaskar”
• It is not acceptable to wear revealing clothes like shorts, lycra, low-necks and so on. This applies particularly to women. Public nudity, even while bathing, is punishable by law. When swimming in the river, it is suggested that women wear a one-piece swim suit.
• Always remove your shoes before entering a Nepali home.
• Dress conservatively and keep shoulders and knees covered in a temple (and remove your shoes before entering). Also you should note that cows are a sacred animal in Nepal and injuring or killing them is an offence. You will find cows roaming freely all over the place.