Nepal

• Trekking agencies offering suspiciously cheap packages with inexperienced guides — book with reputable companies.
• Tiger Balm 'massage' scam in Thamel — someone starts massaging you then demands payment.
• Fake trekking permits — always get official permits from authorized offices.
• Gem and Thangka (painting) shops pressuring you to buy 'investments' — these rarely hold resale value.

• Altitude sickness is the biggest health risk — acclimatize properly, ascend slowly, stay hydrated.
• Drink only bottled or purified water. Stomach issues are common — pack medication.
• Kathmandu has decent hospitals. Remote trekking areas have very limited medical access — helicopter evacuation insurance is essential for treks.

• Hepatitis A and Typhoid strongly recommended.
• Hepatitis B and Rabies recommended (stray dogs are common).
• Japanese Encephalitis for Terai region.
• Routine vaccines up to date.

• Greet with 'Namaste' (hands pressed together) — it's the universal greeting.
• Trek responsibly — carry out your trash, respect local communities, hire local guides.
• Visit Kathmandu's ancient squares (Durbar Square, Boudhanath, Swayambhunath) for living history.

• Don't step over someone or their belongings — walk around them.
• Don't touch food or cooking pots with your left hand — use your right hand.
• Don't point your feet at people, religious objects, or the fireplace in a trekking lodge.
• Don't give money or candy to children who beg — it encourages begging culture. Support local schools instead.

Tip trekking guides (NPR 500–1,000/day) and porters (NPR 300–500/day). 10% at restaurants. Small tips at hotels. Tips are a significant part of income for service workers.

Modest and practical. Cover shoulders and knees at temples. Trekking requires proper gear — invest in good boots, layers, and waterproofs. Casual in Kathmandu.

Hindu and Buddhist traditions coexist beautifully. Walk clockwise around Buddhist stupas and mani walls. Remove shoes at all temples. Don't photograph religious ceremonies without permission. Cows are sacred — never harm or disrespect them.