How to dress for Angkor Wat and surrounding temples
You must cover your shoulders and your knees to enter temple grounds. If you arrive showing too much skin, guards will turn you away, so wear lightweight, breathable fabrics that provide full coverage.
- Choose your fabrics wisely. Avoid heavy denim or thick synthetic materials. Opt for linen, lightweight cotton, or technical moisture-wicking fabrics, as humidity in Siem Reap can exceed 80%.
- Cover the shoulders properly. T-shirts or loose blouses are ideal. Avoid tank tops, camisoles, or spaghetti straps. If you wear a sleeveless top, you must carry a pashmina or scarf to tie around your shoulders, but note that some guards may still refuse entry if they see skin underneath.
- Ensure legs are covered to the knee. Capri pants, long skirts, or flowy trousers are best. Short shorts and skirts above the knee are not allowed. Leggings are often frowned upon by local authorities for being too form-fitting, so loose-fitting pants are a safer bet.
- Choose appropriate footwear. While there is no strict dress code for shoes, you will be climbing steep, uneven stone steps. Wear sturdy walking sandals with straps or light hiking shoes with good grip.
- Can I just use a scarf to cover my shoulders?
- Technically, yes, but it is at the discretion of the guards. If it looks like a temporary cover-up, they may deny you entry. A proper shirt is always the safer choice.
- Are hats allowed?
- Yes, hats are allowed and highly encouraged to protect you from the intense sun. Just remove them when entering the interior of the smaller temple buildings.
- Will I get too hot with all these clothes on?
- If you choose loose, breathable fabrics like linen or thin cotton, you will actually stay cooler by keeping the direct sun off your skin.