Nepal is a country full of warm people with often smiling faces who know how to laugh even in the toughest parts of their lives. The bonds with them are everlasting once they are created. Here are some tips on the common etiquette practiced by Nepali people that should be useful to visitors to form instant connections:
- The form of greeting in Nepal is "Namaste" performed by joining both palms together, which literally means "the divine in me salutes the divine in you".
- As a mark of respect, Nepalese usually take their shoes off before entering the residences and temples they worship.
- Food or material that has been touched by another person’s mouth is considered impure or "Jutho" and, therefore, is not accepted unless among close friends or family.
- Touching something with your feet or using the left hand to give or take may not be considered auspicious.
- Women wearing skimpy outfits are frowned upon, especially in rural parts of the country.
- As a part of the tradition, some Hindu temples do not allow non-Hindus to enter.
- Leather articles are prohibited inside some temple areas.
- Walking around temples or stupas is traditionally done clockwise.
- To avoid conflict, photography is carried out after receiving permission from the person in charge of the individual.
- Public displays of affection are considered scandalous.
- Nodding of the head means "yes," while shaking of the head means "no.". A slight dangling of the head from left to right means "OK".