Breakaway Destination Guides (International)

As tourist one must be sensitive and respectful to the beliefs of others. This is also true when visiting the beautiful wats in Thailand. These temples are still being used as a place of worship by locals. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that people should be considerate and respectful.

Generally the Thai Buddhist temples or Wats are open to everyone. The temples are very often not just beautiful but they also have a very pleasant, calm, soothing atmosphere and you should try to visit at least some of them. There are, however, several rules that you must observe.

For ladies, a skirt or dress that covers the knees and a top with sleeves that covers the shoulders and is not transparent.

For men, long pants and a shirt that covers the shoulders. Shorts should not be worn.

Before entering any building in a temple you must always take off your shoes. Outside there are often shelves for the shoes [sometimes separate shelving, one for Thais and one for foreigners]

You may normally take photographs of anything in a Wat, but taking pictures while people are praying is not polite!

The monks may be photographed, by they often do not like it, they will normally hide when they see a camera aimed at them.

It is good idea to ask first if you wish to take photos in any establishment and especially of any of the monks you might come across.

Women may talk to monks, but may not touch them and the monks may not receive anything directly from a woman`s hand.

Never climb on anything in a temple.

In general, ask yourself. Would I behave in this manner in a church or temple of my own confession? Act accordingly.

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