Nepal's culture is greatly influenced by its music, architecture, religion and literature. Your first sight of Nepal may leave you speechless: the great quantities of temples, churches, monasteries and other religious buildings, the hurly-burly in the streets, and the number of people and animals socializing on every corner of the narrow cobble-stone lanes.
Showing Respect
Respect, especially to the oldest or those in authority, is an important component of our culture. One shows respect in many different ways, including body posture and position, clothing worn, loudness and gestures.
Do not feel offended if any Nepalese hesitates to shake hands with you because it hasn't been very long since the western traditions were introduced to them. Most Nepalese greet one another by a “Namaste”, a common act done by putting the palms together in a prayer like gesture.
Shoes are never worn in the house; they should be left at the door. You may keep your socks on if you want.
Never sit on the threshold of the door. Always ask permission before taking photos (it will almost always be granted). Do not indiscriminately stand up and take photos during ceremonies - ask permission beforehand.
Taboos
* Note the correct way of sitting (generally on the floor) keeps knees covered.
* Ask permission before taking someone’s photo.
* Do not go on an unescorted walk or trip with a person of the opposite sex.
* Always remove your shoes before entering a home.
* Don’t leave the meal table before the chief or head of family does.
* Never address the chief casually.
* Never show affection in public.
* Don’t eat food while walking through the village.
* Never shout across the village.
* Never run through the village.
Socializing
It’s very important for foreigner to know a few things about the Nepali culture. A few important points you can take note of:
To greet you... or to say good morning…in the villages, men will shake hands with other men. They will not shake hands with a woman. They will fold their hands and bow slightly. A woman is expected to do the same. This is the ‘Namaste’ greeting and is common across Nepal.
In urban areas, a woman may shake hands and the man can then do so. This may not be applicable for the children. Children will love to touch you and shake hands with you.
With regards to outward display of affection between different genders, it is considered inappropriate to outwardly display affection that includes touching and holding hands between different genders. This includes married people on the team. Keep in mind that what may seem normal to you may be a source of discomfort for the local people.
Team members are expected to be respectful of the Nepali culture, the ethics and the morals. Respect, especially to elders or those in authority, is an important component of the Nepal culture. One shows respect in many different ways, including body posture and position, clothing worn, loudness of voice, and gestures.
The political situation may be tense at times. It is best to avoid taking a strong position. There is too much to understand in a short visit to Nepal. If discussing politics, listen politely but avoid making judgements.
Many local people desire to live in the West, and sometimes see foreigners as an opportunity to emigrate. Be sure to exercise good judgement in your relationships.
