India and Nepal share many cultural and religious similarities, making travel between the two countries feel familiar. However, India’s incredible diversity in customs, languages, and traditions means it's important for Nepalese visitors to understand certain etiquette rules to ensure respectful and smooth interactions.

✅ Do’s

• Greet with ‘Namaste’: A respectful gesture in both cultures. Use it when meeting elders or entering homes.

• Remove Shoes: Always take off your shoes before entering temples, homes, and some traditional shops.

• Dress Modestly: Especially when visiting religious places or rural areas. Cover shoulders and knees.

• Use Your Right Hand: For eating, giving, or receiving items. The left hand is considered unclean in traditional settings.

• Respect Religious Practices: Don’t interrupt pujas (prayers) or rituals. Ask permission before photographing inside temples.

• Stand in Queues: Whether at railway stations or temples, always wait your turn—crowds can get overwhelming.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t Publicly Display Affection: Hugging or kissing in public is frowned upon in many parts of India.

• Don’t Criticize Religion or Culture: Avoid making negative comments about customs, food, or beliefs.

• Don’t Touch Heads or Point Feet at People or Deities: The head is sacred; feet are considered impure.

• Don’t Offer Alcohol or Non-Veg in Religious Places: Respect dietary rules in holy cities like Varanasi, Haridwar, and Puri.

• Don’t Enter Temples Without Permission: Some temples may restrict entry to non-Hindus or enforce dress codes.

Being polite, open-minded, and observant will help Nepalese travelers form genuine connections across India’s many communities.