Respecting Culture

Aṉangu Culture has a set of social behaviours and customs that are considered good manners. Here are some that you should know.

• Aṉangu traditionally greet each other by saying ‘palya’, a word that can also mean welcome, thank you, understood, ok and goodbye. Greeting Aṉangu with a friendly ‘palya’ while in the park is a simple way to show respect for the local Culture.
• Aṉangu often address each other using kinship terms rather than personal names.
• Like most people, Aṉangu appreciate privacy and respect. Some of them may find constant eye contact uncomfortable.
• In Aṉangu Culture it is important to listen closely and consider your response carefully before giving an answer. If someone remains silent when you are talking to them, please don’t assume they are ignoring you – they are most likely listening or thinking about their response.
• Please do not enter or photograph restricted areas, including sacred sites, ceremonial sites, burial grounds and people’s homes.
• Always ask for permission before photographing Aṉangu.
• Make sure you get a permit for any images of Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park that you want to use for commercial purposes. You can find out more about the cultural protocols around taking pictures on our photography page.
• Please stay on marked tracks and paths and do not climb onto rock formations or boulders. This will ensure you are not entering any sacred areas.