The short answer
Greet with a folded-hand "namaste", dress modestly, remove shoes at temples and homes, walk clockwise around stupas and mani walls, use your right hand to give and receive, and avoid pointing your feet at people or sacred objects. Public displays of affection are not common, and anger is usually seen as a loss of face, so stay calm in disputes.
Ask before photographing people or religious ceremonies, do not touch people's heads, and do not step over someone's legs or food. Small kindnesses, patience and a smile go a long way.
Key facts
- Greeting
- Namaste
- Temples
- Shoes off, clockwise
- Hands
- Right hand to give and receive
- Feet
- Do not point at people
How it works
- Greet politelyNamaste.
- Dress modestlyCover shoulders and knees.
- Remove shoesAt temples.
- Walk clockwiseAround stupas.
- Ask before photosAlways.
Everyday courtesy
A smile and a folded-hand namaste go a long way. Be patient with queues, delays and different ideas of time. Keep your voice calm, and avoid showing anger in public, since it is often seen as losing face.
Use your right hand for giving, receiving and eating, and avoid pointing your feet at people or sacred objects. Ask before entering a home, a kitchen or a prayer room.
At sacred places
Remove shoes where signs or others do, and walk clockwise around stupas, prayer wheels and mani walls. Do not touch offerings or religious items without permission, and ask before photographing people or rituals.
Dress modestly, speak softly and follow your guide's lead. Small gestures of respect build goodwill and often lead to warmer welcomes.
Insider tip
When unsure, watch what locals do and copy them.
Avoid this
Do not touch sacred objects, step over offerings or photograph ceremonies without asking.
Related questions
Is it rude to refuse tea?
Politely accept or decline with thanks.
Can I hug or kiss in public?
Avoid it; it is not the local custom.
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