Admin UserNepalis are known for warmth and hospitality, and a little cultural awareness goes a long way. This guide to Nepal etiquette and dress code covers greetings, temple manners, clothing, photography, food customs, tipping and behaviour on treks, so you can travel respectfully and build better connections with the people you meet.
Greetings and basic manners
Say "Namaste" with palms together and a slight bow. It is polite to greet elders first. Use your right hand when giving or receiving items, and avoid pointing with your finger or feet. A smile is the most universal greeting. Learn a few Nepali words, such as dhanyabad (thank you), and people will appreciate the effort.
Dress code
- Cities. Modest, comfortable clothing. Shoulders and knees covered are appreciated.
- Temples and monasteries. Cover shoulders and legs and remove shoes before entering.
- Treks. Long trousers and sleeved tops are best for respect and sun protection.
- Rural areas. Dress more conservatively than you would in Thamel.
For women, loose trousers or long skirts and a scarf are practical. For men, avoid going shirtless in villages and temple areas.
Temple and monastery etiquette
- Remove shoes and hats before entering.
- Walk clockwise around stupas, prayer wheels and mani walls.
- Do not touch religious objects, and do not point your feet at shrines.
- Ask before taking photographs inside.
- Speak quietly and avoid disrupting prayers.
- Leave offerings only if you wish; donation boxes are common.
Some Hindu temples, such as Pashupatinath, restrict non-Hindus from entering the main sanctuary. Learn more about Kathmandu's heritage sites.
Food etiquette
Eat with your right hand if using hands. Do not touch food or plates with the left hand, and avoid offering food you have bitten. Many Hindus avoid beef, and many Buddhists avoid meat; be considerate when sharing meals. Leaving a little food on your plate is sometimes polite in a home, but finishing your plate in a restaurant is fine. Explore Nepali food with an open mind.
Photography etiquette
Ask permission before photographing people, especially monks, elders and women. Avoid photographing cremation ceremonies at Pashupatinath, and be careful with interiors of temples and monasteries. If someone declines, smile and thank them. Offering to show the photo on your screen helps build trust.
Public behaviour
Avoid public displays of affection and loud arguments. Remain calm if there are misunderstandings, and avoid raising your voice. In crowds, be patient and polite, and do not push. Dress and behave modestly at festivals and religious events.
Etiquette on treks
Greet people you pass with "Namaste", yield to porters and animals on narrow paths and move to the uphill side when yak trains approach. Do not litter, and take rubbish out where possible. Ask lodge owners before moving furniture, charging devices or drying clothes in dining rooms. Be generous with tips for guides and porters.
Giving, begging and charity
Avoid giving money or sweets directly to children, which can encourage begging and keep children out of school. Donate to reputable schools, clinics or charities instead. If you want to help, ask your guide or lodge owner about local needs. See our responsible travel guide.
Shopping and bargaining
Bargaining is common in markets, but do it politely and with a smile. Ask about materials (some "pashmina" is blended) and buy from cooperatives where possible. Pay a fair price, and avoid aggressive haggling for small amounts. Never buy items made from endangered species or antiques without checking export rules.
Etiquette by situation
| Situation | What to do |
|---|---|
| Entering a home | Remove shoes, greet elders first, accept tea if offered |
| Visiting a temple | Dress modestly, remove shoes, walk clockwise |
| Eating with locals | Use your right hand, do not share bitten food |
| Meeting monks | Greet respectfully, avoid touching, ask before photographing |
| Using public transport | Be patient, make room, avoid loud calls |
| Bargaining | Smile, be friendly and agree a fair price |
| Taking photos | Ask first, show the picture afterwards |
Staying in homestays and village lodges
Homestays are a wonderful way to meet families. Arrive with a small gift if you wish, such as fruit or tea, remove shoes at the door and follow your host's lead on meals and bedtime. Ask before using the kitchen, accept food graciously and offer to help. Tip or pay fairly at the end and thank your hosts personally.
Interacting with monks, nuns and sadhus
Treat monks and nuns with respect: greet them with palms together, avoid physical contact and ask before taking photos. At Pashupatinath and other Hindu sites, sadhus (holy men) may pose for photos and ask for a tip. Agree this before taking pictures, and do not feel obliged if you prefer not to pay.
Gender norms and personal space
Public affection between couples is uncommon, and conservative dress is expected in rural areas. Women travelling alone may receive attention; a calm, firm response and modest dress help. Same-sex hand-holding between friends is common and has no romantic meaning, while same-sex couples should be discreet in conservative areas. See our solo female travel guide.
Handling begging and requests
You may be approached by children or adults asking for money, pens, sweets or "school fees". Giving directly can encourage dependency, so a polite "no, thank you" is fine. If you want to help, support a school, health post or charity recommended by your guide or hotel.
Useful Nepali phrases
| Nepali | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Namaste | Hello and goodbye |
| Dhanyabad | Thank you |
| Maaph garnus | Sorry or excuse me |
| Kati ho? | How much is it? |
| Pani | Water |
| Bistari | Slowly |
| Mitho cha | It is delicious |
Language and communication
English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Speak slowly and clearly, and avoid slang. Nepalis may say "yes" to avoid disappointing you, so ask open questions and confirm important details, such as prices and times.
Festivals and holidays
Dress modestly, ask before joining processions, and avoid photographing sacred rituals without permission. During festivals such as Holi, expect coloured powder and water; wear old clothes. See the festivals calendar.
Respect for local cultures
Nepal is home to many ethnic groups, each with distinct customs. Treat all with respect, avoid stereotypes and learn from local guides. The Nepal Tourism Board provides cultural information for visitors.
FAQ
Is it OK to wear shorts in Nepal?
In tourist areas yes, but cover knees at temples.
Can I take photos in temples?
Ask first; some forbid photography inside.
What is the correct way to greet?
Namaste with joined palms.
Do I tip?
10% in restaurants and 10–15% for guides.
What should women wear?
Loose, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, with a scarf for temples.
