How to Visit a Thai Temple (Wat): A Guide to Dress Code and Etiquette

Visiting a Buddhist temple, or wat, is a highlight of any trip to Thailand. It's a chance to witness beautiful architecture and observe Thai culture and spirituality. Showing respect is paramount.

Here is your essential guide to Thai temple dress code and etiquette.

The Golden Rule: Modesty is Key

The overarching principle for visiting a temple is to dress and behave modestly, as these are active places of worship. Your behavior should be calm and respectful.

Part 1: The Dress Code (What to Wear)

The dress code applies to both men and women. The key areas to cover are your shoulders, knees, and midriff.

What to WEAR (The Do's):

• Tops: Shirts or blouses with sleeves (cap sleeves are often acceptable, but long sleeves are safest). Clothing should not be tight or revealing.

• Bottoms: Long pants, trousers, or a long skirt or dress that covers the ankles is ideal, but anything that covers the knees is the minimum requirement.

• Scarf/Shawl: Always carry a large lightweight scarf or sarong in your day bag. This is your emergency cover-up. You can use it to wrap around your waist like a skirt or drape it over your shoulders.

What to AVOID (The Don'ts):

• No bare shoulders. This means no tank tops, spaghetti straps, or sleeveless shirts.

• No shorts or short skirts. Anything above the knee is not allowed.

• No revealing clothing. Avoid low-cut tops, crop tops, or anything that shows your midriff.

• No tight or transparent clothing.

• No beachwear.

What about shoes?
You must remove your shoes before entering any building within the temple complex, especially the main chapel (ubosot or bot) and the assembly hall (viharn). This is non-negotiable. Leave your shoes on the provided racks or steps.

What about hats?
Remove any hats or caps before entering temple buildings.

Part 2: Behavior & Etiquette (How to Act)

How you behave is just as important as how you dress.

General Conduct:

• Speak Quietly: Keep your voice low. Avoid loud conversations and laughter.

• Be Calm and Composed: Walk, don't run. Avoid dramatic gestures.

• Public Displays of Affection (PDA): Do not hug or kiss. It is considered inappropriate.

• Pointing: Avoid pointing your feet or fingers at people or Buddha images. It is considered rude.

Respecting Buddha Images:

• The Head and Feet: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body, and the feet the lowest and dirtiest.

• Never touch or climb on a Buddha image.

• Do not point your feet at a Buddha image. When sitting on the floor, try to tuck your feet underneath you or to the side (the "mermaid" sit). Avoid stretching your legs out with your feet pointing forward.

• Photography: Always check for signs. Flash photography is usually prohibited as it can damage ancient art. In the most sacred areas, all photography might be forbidden. Be observant.

Interacting with Monks:

Monks are highly revered in Thai society. There are specific rules for interacting with them, especially for women.

• Women Must Not Touch Monks: This is a fundamental rule. A woman should not hand anything directly to a monk or sit/stand close enough to make physical contact.

  • How to give an offering: If a woman wishes to give a donation or offering, she should place it on a cloth or table provided for the monk to pick up, or hand it to a male attendant.

• Giving and Receiving: When giving or receiving anything from a monk (if you are male), use both hands as a sign of respect.

• Appropriate Seating: Monks should always sit at a higher level than laypeople. In public transport, they are given priority seats.

Step-by-Step: A Respectful Temple Visit

1. Dress Appropriately: Before you leave your hotel, ensure your clothing covers your shoulders and knees. Pack a sarong just in case.

2. Arrive at the Temple: Purchase a ticket if it's a tourist temple (e.g., Wat Arun, Wat Pho). Many temples are free.

3. Remove Your Hat:

4. Approach a Building:

5. Remove Your Shoes: Leave them neatly on the racks.

6. Enter Quietly: Lower your voice. Observe if people are praying and be discreet.

7. Sit Appropriately: If you wish to sit and reflect, sit with your feet pointing away from the main Buddha image.

8. Take Photos Mindfully: No flash. Check for "No Photography" signs.

9. Donate if You Wish: It is customary to leave a small donation in the donation boxes. This helps maintain the temple.

10. Exit: Put your shoes back on.

What If I'm Not Dressed Properly?

Don't worry! Most major, tourist-friendly temples (like Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok) have clothing rental services near the entrance. For a small fee or deposit, you can borrow a sarong or loose-fitting pants. This is very common, so don't be embarrassed to use it.

By following these simple guidelines, you show respect for Thai culture and ensure a meaningful experience for yourself and those around you. Enjoy the serene beauty of Thailand's temples!