Dos and Don’ts in Tibet

Dos and Don’ts in Tibet

Certainly! When visiting Tibet, it’s important to be aware of and respectful towards the local culture and traditions. There could be things that could be normal in one culture and taboo in another culture. Here’s a list of dos and don’ts to keep in mind:

Dos in Tibet:

1. Add “La” after the name of person you are talking to. It indicates you being polite, it is equivalent of saying “Sir/Madam” in western world.
2. Cross your legs while asked to sit down, don’t stretch your legs wide apart while siting.
3. Accept by both hands; when Tibetan people offer you something take hold of the thing by both hands, it symbolizes respect among giver and taker.
4. Behave well, while being in Tibet don’t act rancorously, try to be friendly to locals and respect their sentiments.
5. While walking around pagodas and monasteries, walk clockwise keeping the pagoda/monasteries to the right-hand side.
6. While being on monasteries be quiet, don’t talk in stentorian voice, talk in whispers if necessary.
7. Take off your sunglasses and hat while entering religious establishments.
8. Dispose garbage at designated place.
9. Avoid discussing political issues, anything that stirs and enflame the political issue can get you in deep trouble.
10. Dress modestly while visiting monasteries.
11. Ask for permission while taking a photograph of people, and inside monasteries and stupas.

Don’ts in Tibet:

1. Don’t step on threshold when entering a house or tent.
2. Don’t put your shoulder casually yon a local Tibetan or touch their head even if you know them.
3. Don’t say any unlucky words or curse in Tibetan household.
4. Don’t buy any exotic animal products that is derived from rare, endangered and protected species.
5. Don’t whistle at night, it is believed that whistling at night brings ghosts and elves.
6. Don’t eat garlic before going to the temple. It is considered inauspicious.
7. Don’t throw bones at fire, as fire is revered as holy entity.
8. Don’t make noise while you eat your food.
9. Don’t pour water with your backhand, it is considered bad omen.
10. Don’t bargain vigorously with locals, if you don’t like the price then just move on.