Tibet Homestay Etiquette for Western Travelers
If you opt for a commercial-style homestay in Tibet, you can relax and act as you would in a hotel, with more freedom in your comings and goings. However, when staying in a homestay hosted by Tibetan families, extra care is needed. Many such Tibetan homestays include a prayer room, the core area for the family's religious activities. It's crucial to understand its significance: never enter, touch the statues, scriptures or butter lamps, or take photos without explicit permission. Remember that this is a family's living space, not just a place to stay, so respect their daily routines, such as traditions, and any dietary taboos they may have.
Stepping inside: Many homes ask guests to remove shoes at the door, where slippers are often provided—arrange your footwear neatly to show care. Dress modestly, especially if elders are present; avoid short shorts or tank tops, as they may be seen as disrespectful in traditional settings.
Sharing meals and drinks: When offered butter tea or highland barely wine, accept with both hands—a sign of gratitude. If toasted, dip your ring finger in the drink and gently flick it toward the sky three times (a gesture honoring nature and spirits) before sipping. It's polite to finish small portions of food like tsampa or Tibetan noodles; waste is frowned upon. If you have dietary restrictions, mention them politely in advance. Physical contact like hugs or shoulder taps is best avoided—stick to smiles and verbal greetings. Always use both hands when passing or receiving objects, as a single hand can seem dismissive.
Conversations and photos: Keep chats light—ask about local festivals, farming traditions, or landscape stories. Steer clear of politics or sensitive religious debates. Never take photos of people, especially elders or children, without asking first. The same rule applies to family gatherings or religious practices—always seek permission.
Building Connections: Greetings and Farewells
A warm "Tashi delek" (meaning "blessings and good luck") goes a long way as a greeting. Learning simple phrases shows you value their culture. Small gifts are thoughtful—try locally unavailable treats from your home country or practical items like notebooks. Avoid clocks (associated with death) or white flowers.
Practical Tips for Smooth Stays
Staying in a homestay provides a deeper immersion into Tibetan daily life compared to other travel arrangements. Keep noise levels down, especially at dawn (when prayers may occur) and night. Observe how the family behaves, and follow their lead—when in doubt, a polite inquiry is always better than assuming. Your consistent politeness will naturally earn you greater respect.
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35 Comment ON "Tibet Homestay Etiquette for Western Travelers"
Asked by Liliana Me** from N/A
plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April
Hi! I would like to plan a 7-8days trip for me and my boyfriend in April (3rd to 10th ideally) to Nepal, Tibet, and, if possible, Bhutan. Do you think it would be doable? Based on what I read, there are some places/things to do to consider: Nepal: Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit, ancient temples, sacred sites like Lumbini, Kathmandu, Tibet: The Potala Palace in Lhasa and the Jokhang Temple. eventually the holy Mount Kailash or the high-altitude plains. Bhutan: Thimphu, Paro, and the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery. To take part in cultural traditions, yoga, meditation... Of course I am open to any recommendations you could make. For your reference, we are both based in Asia: him, in Bangkok and myself in Macau. Thank you so much for the information you could provide and, if possible, an estimated budget for your offer.
Asked by Ke** from Singapore
Cycling Tour to Mt Kailash
Hi , we are planning a Cycling Trip once Tibet opens for Tourism. The plan is we shall arrive to Kathmandu , travel to the border and enter via Kerung. Can you pls send a day to day Itinerary starting from Kerung - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Asthapath. We shall go around Kailash on foot and resume Cycling back to Kerung. We are a Group of 6-8 persons. Thanks Pls send ur reply to Kevin
Asked by Debo** from USA
Please can you tell me the prices and dates for the Tibet Luxury Tour.
Also, could you please provide a detailed itinerary - I want to see how many hours are spent on buses/vehicles. Thank you! Deborah
Asked by S** from HongKong
Tibet Tour from HK
May I know if holding Mainland Travel Permit for HK Residents. is it also need to get the visa permit to Tibet and what is the procedure if need to apply? Thank you
Asked by Na** from USA
Is Kailash Mansarovar Trip open for Indian Passport Holder?
Is it open for Indian Passport Holder?
Asked by A** from Singapore
Enquiry on private tour
We are planning a trip from Hong Kong to Tibet during the 12th to 21st of April. We want a private tour that covers all the scenic places as well as the EBC. Please advise an itinerary along with the cost breakdown. Thanks.
Asked by Na** from Canada
We would like to take the train from Xining to Lhasa
Asked by Gr** from Canada
The "Tibet Entry Permit" should be apply
Asked by Tam** from Singapore
Sightseeing Potala Palace
Asked by Ka** from Singapore
plan to travel to Mount Kailash