The Do's and Don'ts of Socially Responsible Himalayan Trekking
While many ethical travel codes of conduct can be wishy-washy about the specifics of respecting local culture, Himalayan Kingdoms Ltd. has created an excellent list of what to do (and not to do) on your next Himalayan trek. I'm a big believer that codes of conduct should be site-specific, grounded in the social and eco justice frameworks and authored by the community itself. Himalayan Kingdoms Ltd. does just that.
Here is my simplified and notated version of their document on the "Preservation of Local Culture."
Official website: www.himalayankingdoms.com
We are visitors in another nation's culture; we should respect local laws, customs and beliefs.
• At religious festivals we should remain as unobtrusive as possible.
• Do not give sweets or presents to the village children. It only encourages begging and tooth decay. If you want to show your friendship, it is best to give presents of pens to the local schoolteacher or hand out a few picture postcards of your home country. The habit of begging once encouraged, does nothing for the self respect of local people. It is much better to play games with the children − juggling or origami are suggestions for capturing their interest.
• Public affection is frowned upon. Kissing, holding hands in public places is disrespectful.
• Ask first before taking any photos. Similarly, respect people's right to privacy. Make friends with people first, then ask if taking a photo is OK. Many of the older generation think a photo is a theft of part of their soul, therefore do not shoot unless permitted. Local women may also take offence − take care.
• Do not wear leather into temples, as the dead skin of an animal is considered impure. Take of shoes. Similarly, smoke is considered an essential impurity - therefore no smoking in temples. DO not touch religious objects in monasteries as your skin is seen as impure and many statues are revered or believed to be alive.
• Gracefully accept that there is usually a small charge of a few rupees for entering monasteries. This cash will help preserve these buildings.
• The greatest virtue you can possess while traveling in the Himalayas is patience. Time has a totally different meaning. By becoming inpatient you will only slow things down further!
• Many people will stand around just watching what you are doing, sometimes touching you and your things. Be patient, do not get angry with them.
• Because of the effects of television and videos, locals sometimes get completely the wrong impression of the Western world. Try and show them a realistic view. Show them photographs of your town, house, family, way of life, etc.
• It is useful to pick up a little of their language if you can. Locals really appreciate this and you will establish a much more friendly relationship with them.
• Do not expect to be able to just walk into houses. There are ways of showing that you would like to look into house without being obtrusive or forceful. They will usually invite you in any case. Imagine how you would feel if a tourist in this country knocked on your door and asked to come in for a look around! Tact and respect are important.
• Be as friendly as possible to your guides and porters. They are often your best way of discovering more about the way of life of the people and their customs.
• Dress demurely. Locals often find that shorts on men, shorts on women, skimpy tops and skin tight Lycra wear is rude and offensive, particularly in the remoter regions. Nudity obviously is frowned upon. Your sherpa staff of course are more used to our more relaxed habits and will often join in at swimming places, but generally be careful, especially in Muslim regions.
• It is also better not to give money to beggars in the main cities. Many of them belong to well organized rackets, and governments are trying to discourage begging. It would be better to give to a recognized charity instead.
• Stepping over the feet or body of a person is not done. Never point your feet at someone. Do not stand in front of someone who is sitting/squatting, as your feet would then be in front of them.
• Do not share food or drink from the same plate, cutlery or drinking vessel with locals; this is thought of as impure.
• Never offer anything by the left hand. It is polite to give something to someone with both hands.
• Avoid touching a Nepalese person dressed in all white. It signifies there has been a death in their family.
• Your guide would be more than happy to field a general discussion on the above matters, or to talk to you about your individual concern.
