Culture of Nepal

Nepal is a living repository of culture. Based on the assimilation of different ethnicities, people and traditions, the culture of Nepal is equally vivid and exciting.  The hybrid ascendants, traditional lifestyle of people, religious beliefs and enriching customs all comprise the cultural expressions of Nepal. People here hold culture close to their existence and this is one prominent reason why the cultural heritage in the country is priceless.

There are beautiful city squares, stupas, shrines, temples, intangible cultural dance forms, music and other enticing icons from the country that make it captivating in every right. Many tourists are attracted to Nepal for its intriguing culture. They come here to access and reach the highest point on the earth, i.e. Mount Everest. They also make a visit to this eastern Himalayan destination for their pilgrimage to the place where Buddha was born, Lumbini and Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu.

While following their pursuits, they also learn more about the simple yet complex Nepali diaspora. There are Newars, Sherpas, Gorkhas, Gurungs, Magars, Bahuns, Chhetris, Tharus in the country that define and uphold their different set of beliefs and traditions.

The people of Nepal also keep up the heritage of the country alive. They start their day with religious rituals and end it with the same. They work hard and live the life in close connection with the lord and spirituality. But they also serve as great hosts. While they interact with tourists, they make sure to guide them the right way and provide them a rich perspective towards Nepal’s cultural heritage.

This is a highly enriching aspect for mutual travelling where the natives of Nepal work as a vehicle for tourists to understand the first-hand perspective of culture. For tourists who visit this colourful country to soak in its rich cultural experiences, the people of Nepal present the exotic side of the country that no guide-book can reveal to you. Such gestures define the amicable hospitality traditions of Nepal.

For tourists who are keen and curious about Nepal’s culture should also develop fondness, understanding and appreciation towards simple yet important Nepali beliefs.  The country is primarily religious, with prominence of Hindu and Buddhist believers. From both the religions only, the natives have borrowed the gratitude and respect for all living beings. In return, they expect the same from the travellers as well.

While interacting with the people, it is suggested to every traveller to not pinpoint with a single finger at any location. Extending flat hand is always seen as a good gesture, especially with the temples and sacred locations.

Also, avoid touching women and holy men and not offer a hand shake. Instead, greet them with folded palms addressed as a Namaste. Following this gesture anywhere in Nepal will surely earn you a great respect. While performing transactions including money, use both of the hands even while receiving and giving. It is better not to touch offerings or persons when they are on way to shrines, especially if you are non-Hindu. These gestures bridge up the gap Nepali people usually experience while dealing with the travellers.

Try not to display affection on the roads. Nepali culture is totally alien to such acts.  Don't lose your cool. Raising your voice or shouting is seen as extremely bad manners in Nepal too and will only worsen the situation.

Following such simple beliefs in Nepal surely will make your trip enriching and bustling with loads of experiences.