Well, it s a good questions ‘How are Nepalese people like?’
Nepalese are traditionally warm and friendly and treat foreigners with a mixture of curiosity and respect. ‘Namaste’ which is hello, how are you is a universal greetings. Most Nepalese speaks some English but smiles and gestures work well where language is a barrier. Always double check when you asking for a information or direction. Nepalese hate to say ‘no’, they give you their individual versions of answers.
Nepalese people are culturally diverse due to the country’s unique blend of ethnic groups, languages, and traditions. However, there are some general characteristics and cultural aspects that are commonly associated with Nepalese people.
So, How are Nepalese people like? Nepalese people exhibit a wide range of physical features due to the country’s ethnic diversity. While there is no singular “look” for Nepalese people, some common physical traits include a range of skin tones from fair to olive, varying facial features influenced by the mix of Mongoloid, Indo-Aryan, and indigenous ethnic groups, and diverse hair textures and colors.
Knowledge of costumes also gives an insight into how are Nepalese people like. Traditional Nepalese clothing varies by ethnic group and region. However, common traditional attire for men includes the Daura Suruwal, a long shirt with trousers, and Dhaka Topi, a traditional Nepali hat. Women may wear the Gunyo Cholo, a blouse, and the Patuka, a sash tied around the waist, along with a sari or a long skirt.
Pay attention while visiting Temple. For purity sake you are not allowed to wear leather stuffs when entering temple or Buddhist monastery. Removing shoes and asking permission before photographing inside temple or festival and ceremonies is another consideration you should take. Always best to ask before taking photos specially women who are shy and do not want to appear in mass media.
Environmental consideration is another area you should be aware. Nobody likes littering. Most important is dress and behavior and here are things you should consider:
1. Nudity – not acceptable, too short dress and revealing body parts are offensive
2. Public displays of affection like long tongued kiss, massaging body are offensive
3. Do not give stuffs like candy, money, balloon, it encourages kids to beg
4. Do not leave your valuable items unattended, all your valuable items should be with you all the time. Once forgotten to pickup most probably it is gone. So pay attention.
5. Do not tease women or girls for bad intension
6. Do not over drunk as this leads to conflict if you cannot controlled your tongue or body
7. Do not argue, better take help from your friends or guide. Nepalese are fairly good at judging and will protect you if you are on the truth side. We don’t mean politicians.
8. Do not exploit anybody
Nepalese Food Behavior is must to understand how are Nepalese people like
Most of Nepalese eat food with their hand at home, do not feel bad, it is common everywhere. If you are in a non touristic area then there may be hardly a spoon for you to use but you can join like them and eat like them. There is always a jug of water for you to wash your hands or drink like local.
In Nepal eating with the hands is a common practice especially in rural areas and among certain ethnic groups. Many Nepalese people, especially in traditional households, prefer eating with their hands using right hand rather than utensils like spoons or forks. This practice is deeply ingrained in Nepalese food culture and has practical, cultural, and even spiritual significance. Using the left hand for eating may be perceived as unhygienic or disrespectful in Nepalese society.
Beef to Nepalese? No way!
Nepalese do not eat beef. In Hinduism, the cow is considered sacred and is revered as a symbol of life and prosperity. The killing or consumption of cows is strongly condemned by many Hindus, and it is considered a deeply offensive and disrespectful act. Also, Buddhist do not eat either.
Nepalese food Menu
To realize How are Nepalese people like, understanding food habit is mandatory. The daily meals in Nepal typically reflect the country’s diverse cultural and geographical influences. While eating habits may vary among different regions and communities, there are some common elements in Nepalese cuisine and dining customs:
Dal Bhat (Lentils and Rice): This is the staple food of Nepal and is consumed daily by a majority of Nepalese. It consists of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat), and often accompanied by vegetables, pickles, and sometimes meat or fish.
Tarkari (Vegetables): A variety of vegetables are commonly consumed with dal bhat. These may include potatoes, spinach, cauliflower, green beans, pumpkin, and others, depending on seasonal availability and regional preferences.
Achar (Pickles): Pickles made from various ingredients such as mangoes, tomatoes, radishes, or chili peppers are served as condiments to add flavor to meals.
Ghee and Oil: Ghee (clarified butter) or cooking oil, such as mustard oil or vegetable oil, is used for cooking and adding richness to dishes.
Roti: In many parts of Nepal, especially in the Terai region, flatbreads known as roti or chapati are consumed instead of rice. These are typically made from wheat flour.
Momos: These are a popular snack or meal throughout Nepal, especially in the Kathmandu Valley. Momos are dumplings filled with vegetables, meat (usually chicken or buffalo), or cheese, and are served with a spicy dipping sauce.
Tea and Chiya (Nepali Tea): Tea is a popular beverage in Nepal and is often consumed multiple times throughout the day. Nepali tea (chiya) is typically brewed with milk, sugar, and spices such as cardamom and ginger.
Meat and Fish: While many Nepalese are vegetarian, meat and fish are also commonly consumed, especially by those in the hills and mountains where agriculture is more challenging.
Snacks and Sweets: Various snacks and sweets are enjoyed throughout the day, including samosas, sell roti (rice flour doughnuts), and sweets like barfi, laddu, and jalebi. Join our Momo, Dhalbhat & Thukpa Cooking Class in Nepal coinciding with 4 Days Kathmandu Heritages Tour.
Community and Rituals also describes How are Nepalese people like:
In many Nepalese households, meals are often eaten together as a family. Additionally, certain rituals and traditions may be observed during meal times, such as offering a portion of food to deities before eating (prasad).
Overall, Nepalese cuisine reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, with meals typically emphasizing simplicity, flavor, and communal dining experiences. Write to us to understand Nepalese in more depth, we give you our great anthropologists !
