Socializing in Nepal

Namaste is the traditional greeting in Nepal. A person places his or her palms together—with the fingers up—in front of his or her chest or chin and says “Namaste,” or Namaskar to superiors. Adults do not use the Namaste greeting with children. In informal situations, one might raise the right hand in a salaam gesture, which is similar to a salute, for both greetings and farewells. At formal social gatherings, a guest may be adorned with a mala, which is a flower garland, when greeted. In certain Buddhist communities, a khada (white cotton scarf) may be offered instead of a mala. The Nepalese generally do not shake hands, although some men may shake hands with Westerners or each other. In greetings, it is respectful to use titles (such as “Professor,” “Doctor,” or “Director”) or the suffix -jee (or -jye) with the last name. The Nepalese usually ask permission before taking leave of others.