Culture & etiquette
Local etiquette and culture
Hospitality, dress, bread and tea, mosques and photographing people.
Hospitality
Guests are honoured throughout Central Asia. If you are invited into a home, remove your shoes at the door, accept tea and try a little of everything offered. Refilling a guest’s cup only partly is a sign of care: it means they will keep coming back to refill it.
Bread
Bread is treated with respect. Do not place it upside down or throw it away; tear it by hand rather than cutting it.
Dress
Cities are relaxed, but cover shoulders and knees at mosques, mausoleums and in rural areas. Women may be asked to cover their hair at active mosques; a light scarf is useful.
Greetings
Men often greet with a handshake and a hand on the heart. A hand on the heart and a slight nod is a polite greeting to anyone, especially if a handshake is not offered.
Photographing people
Most people are happy to be photographed if you ask first, and many will ask for a photo with you. Be especially respectful with women and elders, and never photograph people praying.
Rules, timetables and prices change. We check this page regularly, but always confirm entry requirements with official sources before you travel.
