Manners in Bhutan
Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country
Greetings
- Kuzu zangpo la (Hello)
- Shakking la (Thank you)
- Handshake
- Palms together bow
Etiquette
- Remove hat and shoes at temples and dzongs, circumambulate clockwise
- Criticism of king and royal family considered breach of etiquette
- Obtain permission for photography of monks, military, or sanctuary interiors
- Hand offerings or money with right hand (or both hands)
- Wearing national dress (gho/kira) mandatory when visiting public institutions and schools
- Smoking in public places prohibited by law
- Always walk keeping stupas and prayer flags on left
- Polite to accept chili snacks or butter tea when offered during home visits
- Often no toilet paper, so bringing own is safer
- Lightly spinning prayer wheels at roadsides and bridges brings good fortune