20 Things Not to Do in Nepal

Nepal, a land of towering mountains, ancient temples, and vibrant traditions, is a dream destination for travelers seeking adventure and cultural immersion. However, navigating its unique customs and practical challenges requires awareness and respect. Below is the detailed guides: “20 Things Not to Do in Nepal”. These lists, informed by trusted sources like Nepal Ascent Treks, Ethical Adventures Nepal, and Travel Triangle, aim to help you travel respectfully and enjoyably.

To ensure a respectful and smooth trip, avoid these actions that could offend locals or cause practical issues.

No.	Action to Avoid	Why It Matters
1	Give money to beggars	Encourages dependency; donate to charities instead (Nepal Ascent Treks).
2	Use left hand for eating or passing items	Left hand is considered unclean; use right hand (Ethical Adventures Nepal).
3	Drink tap water	Unsafe due to contamination; use bottled water (Travel Triangle).
4	Enter restricted areas	Some sites are off-limits to foreigners; respect signs.
5	Touch people’s heads or show feet	Head is sacred, feet are disrespectful; be mindful.
6	Wear revealing clothing	Conservative dress respects local norms, especially in rural areas.
7	Enter holy sites with shoes	Shoes are removed to honor sacred spaces.
8	Offer tasted food	Considered unhygienic; offer fresh food only.
9	Walk around stupas anti-clockwise	Clockwise circumambulation is a Buddhist tradition.
10	Buy antiques without receipts	Needed for customs; antiques over 100 years require documentation.
11	Take photos where prohibited	Some sites ban photography; always ask first.
12	Leave with Nepalese currency	Not exchangeable abroad; convert before departure.
13	Touch women or holy men	Physical contact can be inappropriate; use verbal greetings.
14	Consume marijuana	Illegal in Nepal; avoid legal trouble.
15	Visit dance bars	Often linked to scams; choose cultural venues instead.
16	Show public affection	Frowned upon, especially in rural areas.
17	Eat beef	Cows are sacred in Hinduism; avoid to respect beliefs.
18	Litter or damage environment	Preserves Nepal’s natural beauty; stick to trails.
19	Approach yaks closely	Can be dangerous due to poor senses (Travel Triangle).
20	Shout in public	Disrupts Nepal’s tranquil atmosphere; keep volume low.

Why These Matter

Nepal’s culture is deeply rooted in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, where respect for sacred spaces, personal boundaries, and the environment is paramount. For example, using the right hand for interactions is a sign of cleanliness, while drinking tap water can lead to health issues due to poor filtration systems. Practical missteps, like leaving with Nepalese currency or buying antiques without receipts, can cause logistical problems at the airport. By avoiding these actions, you show respect for local customs and ensure a smoother travel experience.

Practical Tips

Carry Bottled Water: Always have a supply of bottled or purified water, especially when trekking.
Dress Appropriately: Pack loose, long clothing for temple visits and rural areas.
Check Signs: Look for photography or entry restrictions at religious sites.
Exchange Currency: Visit exchange counters in Kathmandu or Pokhara before leaving.