Nepali Customs and Etiquette are very important to follow when you travel to Nepal. For any activists such as trekking, hiking, mountaineering etc.
- When visiting monasteries or temples, avoid smoking and remove your shoes and hat before you enter.
- Always walk clockwise around Buddhist stupas( Bell-shaped religious structures) Chortens (Tibetan style stupas) and Mani (Ston carved with a Tibetan Buddhist chant) Walls. Even if this involves detouring off the trail.
- Some Hindu temples are closed to non-Hindus (this is normally indicated by a sign) and others will not allow you to enter with any leather items (mainly shoes and belts.
- Locals always leave a donation in a Gompa or Temple and you should follow their example.
- If you are introduced to a Buddhist Lama it is customary to give them a Khata (White Scarf) Place it in the Lama’s hands, not around their neck.
- Short shorts, sleeveless tops, and other revealing items of clothing are unsuitable for women or men; nudity is unacceptable anywhere. Women should carry a sarong with them if they will be bathing at the local water taps.
- Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned upon, so tone down the public intimacy.
- Nepali men often walk around hand and hand, but this does not carry any sexual overtones.
- Never point at someone, or beckon them with a single finger. If you do need to beckon someone over to you. Use your whole hand instead of one finger. And be careful to keep your palm facing downwards.
- Never step over someone’s legs – politely ask them to move their legs so you can get past.
- Always remove your shoes before you enter a private house.
- Food becomes ritually Jhutto (polluted) If touched by someone else’s hand, plate or utensils, so only eat off your own plate and never use your own fork or spoon to serve food on a communal plate.
- When using water from a communal jug or cup, pour it straight into your mouth without touching the sides and without pouring it all over your shirt.
- Don’t use your left hand for eating and passing food to others as this hand is used for personal solutions. Wash your hands and mouth before dining.
- In general, when eating in a group, no one gets up until everyone has finished their food. If you have to leave early, make your apologies by saying bistarai khanus (please ear slowly)
- Do not throw rubbish onto any fire used for cooking – fires are considered sacred.
This up-listed article source is Lonely Planet Nepal 9th edition.
These up-listed Nepali Customs and Etiquette are the most important to follow when you travel in Nepal.