SOME DO's AND DON'Ts

The Nepalese people are friendly and hospitable by nature and the tourists in general will have no difficulty in adjustment. All the same, one may be confused regarding some customs, traditions and manners as in coming into any unfamiliar society. Nepal like any other country has its own ways of regulating life though it might be different in degrees to each individual visitor. We want visitors to observe and see the way the Nepalese people live and share. It is in this spirit that we offer some practical guideline that could help to make the stay delightful, homely and rewarding.

The Relegious Way of Life:

Religion is an integral and deep-rooted part of Nepali life. Temples, images, sacred paintings are to be seen everywhere. Majorities of the people are Hindus in Nepal, nevertheless, Buddhism has also important place in this country. Hinduism and Buddhism are so closely connected in Nepal that it would take a lifetime's study to understand the complexities of country's religious life. Hindus and Buddhists alike worship all deities and fasts and festivals are shared. For centuries both have cherished mutual regard and respect for one another's tradition. The following are some hints regarding religious matters.

• Visitors to Hindu temple or Buddhist shrine are expected to be unshoed as a marked of respect. In fact, a pair of open sandals is more convenient and comfortable while visiting the temples and stupas.
• In some of the temples, entrance may be prohibited for non-Hindus.
• Leather articles are prohibited inside the temple precinct.
• It is better not to touch offerings or persons when they are on their way to the shrines.
• Beef is strictly prohibited among both the Hindus and Buddhist. No female animal is killed for food.
• Walking around temple or stupa is traditionally done clock wisely.
• Generally temples, stupas and monuments are permitted to be photographed but it is better to ask authorized persons to have permission before using the camera.