Itching to visit the gorgeous temples in Thailand? There’s good news! All temples are open to visitors of all religions. They are all warmly received by the monks.
Thai people are extremely welcoming. However, there are some rules and etiquettes one is expected to follow to show respect to the culture. It is important to behave appropriately when visiting temples in Thailand.
Wear appropriate clothing
Due to Thailand's heat, most tourists disregard this rule. However, you must dress appropriately. Women should wear long pants or skirts. Men should wear full pants. Both men and women need to keep their shoulders covered. In some temples, sandals are allowed. For worship and meditation purposes, clothing shouldn't be too tight or too loose. If you are visiting Wat Phra Kew, you should be aware that the dress code is strict. Full pants are a must for men, as well as shirts with sleeves. To cover their knees, women must wear long skirts or long pants. Also, tight leggings are not allowed.
Take off your shoes, hat and sunglasses
Take off your shoes before you enter the main temple building. Many temples have an area where you can leave your shoes. You can keep wearing socks.
Remain silent
Temples are sacred places. People come to this place for prayer and meditation. Avoid talking loudly and put your phone away.
Never point with your feet or fingers
You mustn't use your fingers or feet to point at a Buddha statue, monk, or another person. Use your right hand, with the palm facing up, to indicate something. Feet are considered to be “unclean” as well as the dirtiest part of the body. To avoid this, you should never be seated in a higher position than the monk when you are placed to speak to him. Men should cross their legs when sitting, and women should bend forward.
Do not touch
Do not touch or climb on Buddha statues. It is an indecent act. Keep a respectful distance when taking pictures, don't get too close to a Buddha statue.
Respect the temple
Different Buddhists from different countries pay tribute to Buddha in various ways. It is sufficient to bow to Buddha's statue or a monk if you're not native to Thailand. Keep your head down to show respect.
Before taking photos, get permission
Thailand allows you to take photos of Buddha and the temples. However, photos are not permitted in all worship areas. Look for temple rules on noticeboards outside before you take a picture. Or just ask someone. Don't take photos of worshippers praying. It's disrespectful to take pictures in the temple.
Avoid displaying affection in public
Public displays of affection in Thai culture are prohibited, so temples are certainly not the right place.
Advice for women
Do not touch a monk's robes or robes in Buddhist culture.
You should not hand anything directly to a monk.
A monk cannot sit with a woman.
Some areas of the temple are not permitted for women.
