Ancient Rituals You Can Respectfully Witness as a Visitor

Some rituals are open to visitors, while others are private. Here are several you can attend, and how to behave so you are a guest and not an intruder.

Rituals are not performances

Many ancient practices are still active religion, not shows for travellers. Some welcome respectful observers. Others do not. The difference is how you behave and whether you were invited.

Ceremonies where visitors are usually welcome

• Ganga Aarti, Varanasi, India: Each evening priests wave lamps beside the Ganges to chanting and bells. Arrive early to find a spot, or watch from a boat. Photography is common, but never photograph cremation ghats.
• Temple ceremonies in Bali, Indonesia: Daily offerings and festivals fill the island. Visitors can attend with a sarong and sash, and should sit lower than the priests and avoid walking in front of worshippers.
• Buddhist alms-giving in Luang Prabang, Laos: Monks collect food at dawn. Locals ask visitors to watch quietly from a distance, not buy offerings from street sellers or pose for photos.
• Shinto festivals (matsuri) in Japan: Local festivals welcome spectators. Follow the crowd, stay out of processional routes and do not touch portable shrines.
• Inti Raymi, Cusco, Peru: A winter solstice festival re-enacting an Inca ceremony, with large public viewing areas. Book accommodation well ahead.

Etiquette that applies almost everywhere

1. Ask or observe first. If locals do not film, you should not either.
2. Dress modestly. Cover shoulders and knees, and bring a scarf.
3. Do not touch sacred objects, offerings or people in ceremonial dress.
4. Keep your distance and your voice low. No flash.
5. Do not treat locals as scenery. A greeting and a thank-you go a long way.
6. Pay fairly for guides and entry, and avoid operators who sell access to private ceremonies.

Be careful with 'authentic' offers

If someone offers to take you to a 'secret' or 'private' ritual for a fee, ask who benefits. Rituals involving substances, spirit possession or healing are especially sensitive. Choose community-run experiences or those arranged through a recognised cultural centre.

Check dates before you go. Many festivals follow lunar calendars and move each year.