A
brief introduction to Nepali culture
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"Namaste"
is a common act done by putting the palms together in a prayer
like gesture to greet anyone in Nepal. Do not take it seriously
if any Nepalese hesitates to shake hands because it really hasn't
been very long since western traditions crept into the Nepalese
way of life. In Nepal, people especially ladies; do not normally
shake hand when they greet one another.
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Use
your right hand to eat and deal with food. Nepalese use their
left-hand to wash themselves after defecating. Also remember that
most Nepalese use their fingers to eat and using spoons and forks
is not common, especially when you are having "Daal Bhat"
the staple Nepalese diet, but this does not mean, however that
you can't use implements.
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On
any visit to a Hindu temple, Buddhist Stupas, Monasteries or into
a home you are expected to be un-shoed as a mark of respect
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Feet
should never be pointed at anyone; drape something over them if
you must stretch them out while sitting on the floor. Never step
over anyone, and always move your feet to let people avoid stepping
over you
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Beef
is prohibited among both the Hindus and Buddhists and no female
animal is killed for food.
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Once
your lips have touched a food item or its container, it is considered
"Jutho"(polluted) for others. Don't eat off someone
else's plate or offer anyone food you have taken a bite out of.
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Major
Hindu temples are usually off-limits to foreigners.
Don't enter them or take pictures unless given permission to.
Do not take leather articles inside the temple precinct as they
are prohibited.
There
are small circular or rectangular stones or metal Mandalas on
the ground in front of most shrines. Do not step on them.
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Public
display of affection between men and woman is frowned upon. Avoid
kissing, hugging, cuddling or even holding hands in public
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Be
patient. Anger and impatience will rarely make things better.
Nepalese have an easy "timeless" manner. Try to adjust
to it.
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Please
do not encourage beggary by being benevolent.
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Beware of touts
who claim to be representatives of companies and offer to "make
you a bargain". Though it will surprise you once you visit
you will learn that not everyone in Nepal is trustworthy.
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Nepal has about thirty-six
different ethnic groups and multiple religions and languages.
It's music is similarly varied, with
pop, religious, classical and folk music being popular. Musical
genres from Tibet and Hindustan have greatly influenced Nepalese
music. Usually, women, even of the musician castes, do not play
music except for specific situations, such as at the traditional
all-female wedding parties.
Click here
to learn more of Nepali music
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The architecture
of Nepal is another art that has become an important part of
the country's culture. Nepal's architecture can be divided into
three broad groups, the stupa style, the pagoda style and the
shikhara style.
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Note that men and
woman should always dress appropriately. Men should not walk
or trek bare-chest ed, shorts are acceptable but it's recommended
to rather wear long pants. Women are recommended to wear long
skirts that cover the ankles, because exposure of a woman's
legs can draw unnecessary attention.
