Angkor Wat is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. As both a historical site and an active place of worship, it holds great cultural and religious significance to the Cambodian people.
In order to preserve its sanctity and respect local traditions, there is a dress code for Angkor Wat that visitors are expected to follow. Understanding and following the Angkor Wat dress code is crucial not only for entry but also for ensuring that your visit remains respectful and meaningful.
Let’s get into what you can and cannot wear when visiting Angkor Wat Cambodia.
Modesty at Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat was originally constructed in the 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu. It later became a Buddhist temple, but it retains its significance as a spiritual site.
Visitors from around the world come to admire its stunning architecture and intricate carvings, but it’s important to remember that it is still a sacred place for Cambodians and Buddhists.
Most religious sites, both ancient and modern, do have clothing rules to follow and Angkor Wat is no different.
Dressing modestly is more than just following a rule – it’s about honoring the spiritual traditions and showing respect for the people who continue to use Angkor Wat as a place of worship.
In Cambodia, modest attire is deeply embedded in cultural norms, especially in religious contexts. By dressing appropriately, visitors contribute to the reverence that makes Angkor Wat such a unique and spiritual experience.
What to wear in Angkor Wat
The dress code for Angkor Wat is pretty straightforward. The main thing to remember is that BOTH men and women must cover their shoulders and knees before entering the temple complex.
Women: What to wear in Angkor Wat
Women entering the temples at Angkor Wat can wear long skirts, a dress, or pants. As long as it covers the knees, you’re good.
You also need to wear a top that covers the shoulders. This can be a shirt, even a short sleeved shirt, as long as the shoulders aren’t showing.
If you have a shirt on that does show the shoulders (or stomach) then just bring a shawl or scarf to cover the shoulders when needed.
Both clothing choices above are acceptable but for the second picture you will need to cover your shoulders with a jacket or scarf when you visit a temple.
Men: What to wear in Angkor Wat
Men entering the temples should wear long pants and a shirt with sleeves. This means most shorts won’t be an acceptable clothing choice since they generally don’t cover the knees. If, however, you do have shorts that reach the knees, you should be fine.
You can wear short sleeved shirts, even t-shirts are acceptable, but no tank tops. Like women, men can use a scarf or jacket to cover the shoulders if necessary
All of these guidelines are meant to ensure visitors present themselves respectfully in a place of worship.
What NOT to Wear at Angkor Wat
Every temple in Cambodia, no matter how old they are, are considered religious sites. The clothing rules for Angkor Wat apply to ALL temples in Cambodia.
Here’s a list of things you should avoid wearing at any of the temples in Cambodia.
- Sleeveless tops or tank tops
- Shorts above the knee
- Skirts above the knee
- Any clothing that is too revealing
Why Focus on Shoulders and Knees?
In many cultures, including Cambodian, covering the shoulders and knees is seen as a sign of modesty, particularly in religious settings. The shoulders and knees are often regarded as more intimate areas of the body and exposing them can be seen as a lack of respect when entering sacred places.
Cultural Significance
Modesty is a key value in Cambodian society and this extends to religious practices. Both Hindu and Buddhist traditions emphasize purity of mind and body when engaging in spiritual activities, including visiting temples.
By covering these areas, you help preserve the sacred atmosphere of the temple and show respect for the cultural values of the people who worship there.
Religious Context
While Angkor Wat was originally dedicated to Vishnu, it later became a Buddhist temple. In both Hinduism and Buddhism, covering the body is a way to show reverence when entering a temple or any place of worship.
This practice is also common in other religious sites around the world like Thailand or Turkey, from temples to churches to mosques.
What happens if you don’t Follow the Angkor Wat Dress Code?
If you don’t comply with the Angkor Wat dresscode, you won’t be allowed to enter the temple and may even be asked to leave the specific temple areas.
You’ve come all this way and bought your ticket for Angkor Wat, don’t risk not being allowed to see it.
You’ll find inexpensive clothes for sale everywhere in Cambodia so if you need something you’ll find it there.
Tips for visitors to Angkor Wat
Because Cambodia has a tropical climate and it’s pretty hot year round, you will automatically want to wear summer clothes like shorts and sleeveless shirts or dresses. Here are some tips for the Angkor Wat dress code.
Pack lightweight clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Loose, breathable fabrics will help you stay cool in the Cambodian heat while adhering to the dress code.
You can still wear shorts or sleeveless clothing when you’re outside of the temple. That IS allowed. What I did was carry a wrap in my backpack and just put it on over my shorts when we got to the temple.
Because Cambodia is hot and humid, you’ll want to wear comfortable clothing that is both respectful and practical. Opt for material like linen which allows your skin to breathe while still covering the necessary areas.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle to stay hydrated as you explore the Siem Reap Temples.
If you forget your cover-up, you’ll find vendors outside the temples that sell scarves or cover-ups and they are very inexpensive starting at just a few dollars.
Respecting the Local Culture
Adhering to the Angkor Wat dress code isn’t just about following the rules. It’s about a fostering a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s culture and respecting the local people.
By dressing appropriately, you show that you value the historical and spiritual significance of the site. Angkor Wat is a place where both locals and tourists can reflect on the Khemer Empire and the beauty of the temple complex.
Showing respect through modest attire is one of the simplest ways to honor the temple’s cultural and spiritual importance.
Angkor Wat is not just a historical site; it’s still used for religious ceremonies. Dressing appropriately is a sign of respect toward the monks, worshippers, and Cambodian culture.
Angkor Wat Clothing Rules – Final Thoughts
The dress code at Angkor Wat may seem like a small detail but it plays a significant role in preserving the spiritual atmosphere of the temple. By covering your shoulders and knees, you are demonstrating respect for the Cambodian people and their customs.
Following the Angkor Wat dress code ensures that your visit is both respectful and enjoyable, allowing you to fully appreciate the majesty of Angkor Wat and other surrounding temples.
