With its diverse ethnic groups and traditional beliefs, Nepal has numerous cultural practices that may appear unusual to a person on his/her first visit to the country. Although some customs have merely been converted to habits without thought, ancient texts justify them with far-fetched reasons, sometimes making sense and sometimes not. Most of these customs go back to the Hindu and Buddhist traditions. However, to enjoy your stay in this remarkable country, it is important to take into consideration the different cultural aspects of the country. Here is a list of things, which may be helpful to you.  

• The form of the greeting in Nepal is “Namaste” and is performed by joining the palms together.
• Conversations may have ‘dead’ patches. Nepalese are not uncomfortable with silence. Remember, many times, when a person shakes his head from left to right, he may mean, “yes".
• Public display of affection between man and woman are frowned upon. Public kissing, hugging, and sometimes hand- holding are offensive to most Nepalese and a sign moral.
• Nepalese men often walk around hand in hand, but this does not have the same implication as it does in Europe, America or other developed country.
• Be careful not to use your spoon, fork or a hand being used for your eating to touch other's food, plate, cooking utensil or the serving dish. Do not eat from other people's plate and do not drink from other people's bottle or glass. It is considered Jutho (impure) and refers to food that is ritually polluted
• Before entering a Nepalese home, Temple, and Stupa remember to remove your shoes.
• Seek permission first before entering a Hindu temple; many Hindu Temple do not allow westerners or non -Hindus to enter. Leather articles are prohibited to be taken inside the temple precinct. Walking around temples or Stupas is traditionally done clockwise. 
• Never touch anything with your feet. This is considered an offence among Nepalese.
• While traveling dress appropriately. Women should especially avoid dressing in skimpy outfits.
• Keep a respectful distance from persons when they are on the way to shrines or are in the process of worshipping.
• Left hands are used for cleaning oneself after going to the toilet. It is never used to pass or accept things, whether food at the table or money with a shopkeeper.
• Take photographs only after receiving permission for the object or person being photographed.
• Anger is best not expressed openly. It causes you and the person you’re mad at loss of face.
• Baksheesh is an extra payment for a service performed and is usually given to porters or laborers at the end of the job. It can be money or clothes or anything else and there is no set rate.
• Bargaining is to be expected. Don’t bargain if you’re not really interested. If your price is accepted, don’t try to back out, and don’t try to get an even lower price.
• Bathing in the hills is very conservative. Men should wear shorts; women should wear a lungi pulled up under the arms.
• Children are spoiled crazies. Don’t be surprised if you are the center of attraction everywhere.
• Gifts are rarely given and seldom opened in front of the person who has given it.
• Heads are sacred and should be treated with respect. Never take a topi (hat) off a man’s head, even in fun.
• Invitations often arrive at the last moment. Don’t be surprised or offended if it happens to you. If you’re busy, even a short appearance is enough.