Kathmandu - Post Report Question and Answers
Are there problems with ethnic, race/racial minorities or religious prejudices? Gender equality?
There is significant gender bias that can affect expats women, particularly outside the city. Though it never rises to the level of being unsafe, many women (myself included) have experienced locals unwilling to engage with them directly when their husbands are present or being ignored in favor of males in a group. This is less prevalent in the city, but still occurs. I've also heard of racism being directed to Asians throughout the city. It seems to be worse if you appear to be of South Asian descent and, particularly, appear to be from a "low caste". - Jun 2024
For many Nepalis, women are seen as less than men, it can be frustrating when a man does not want to speak with me because I am a woman. - Aug 2022
Gender inequality is huge. I had to get used to men completely ignoring me and only speaking to my husband or the other men in the group. Don't shake the hand of the opposite gender unless they offer first. When I went to activate my cell phone, they asked where my husband was! Among Nepali's, there are prejudices against those of a lower caste, and people are sometimes killed over marrying into the wrong caste. Also against the Tibetians, Tamang, and other tribes. - Aug 2019
As a Westerner Nepalis will stare at you. However, they are all very nice. I have not run into any prejudices that I've noticed. Dating can be challenging due to cultural differences and men can still be condescending to women sometimes. - Aug 2015
Within Nepali society, absolutely. There is certainly discrimination against expats of color, as well, mostly in the form of staring and inappropriate comments. The gender discrimination is much more subtle but as a Westerner, it will get under your skin. - Jul 2014
This is a traditional South Asian society, and women are second class citizens in general. There are serious problems with violence against women in domestic settings as well as economic discrimination. - May 2014
If you look like a Westerner, you will be stared at. That is about it. - Apr 2014
None that I'm aware of. - Dec 2013
None. - Jun 2013
Many people discriminate against dark-skinned people. Mostly they stop and stare in a provincial way. It is usually not malicious and not dangerous, but it is definitely annoying. This is less common in the city but more pronounced in the countryside and on treks. - May 2013
No, Nepalis are some of the most tolerant/accepting people I have ever met. - Jun 2011
Though this is not a misogynistic culture, women are not equals in all eyes. That said, all tourists are equally exploitable :) - Sep 2010
Yes. At times we could not meet because of the recent bombing of a Catholic Church. - Jan 2010
Are you kidding? All of the above. - May 2008
