Etiquette and Taboo in Tibet
Etiquette
Presenting Hada (or Khatag) is a traditional practice in Tibet to show respect
and hospitality. If you are receiving a Hada, do remember to accept
with both your hands! Raise the Hada above your shoulder and bow
if you are presenting a Hada to a statue or a high lama! Presenting
a Hada to your host if you are visiting a Tibetan house will be
appreciated.
Always add a "La" after one's name to show your respect,
for example Tashi La.
Address a high lama with "Rinpoche" and a common lama
with Geshe La although he might not be a Geshe.
It would be considered nice if you would like to offer some money
or butter fuel in monasteries.
Do always walk clockwise around religious shrines, stupas, Mani
stones and prayer wheels. However, if you visit a Bon monastery,
then walk counterclockwise!
It's okay to enter a chamber without removing your shoes, although
monks do.
Coming inside during the chanting session is acceptable. Sit or
stand in the rear. No loud and irreverent conversation!
Taboo
Do not smoke, drink alcohol or make unnecessary noise in monasteries.
Do not touch, walk over or sit on any religious texts, objects or
prayer flags in monasteries.
Do not kill or cause anything to be killed in monasteries.
Do not be intrusive when photographing monasteries especially when
people are performing religious ceremonies. Always ask for permission.
Do not try to harm vultures, and yaks and sheep wearing red, yellow
or green cloth.
Do not step on the threshold when entering a Tibetan house.
Do not spit before somebody.
Don't put trash in the fire.
Do not engage in public displays of affection.
Do not wear shorts!