How to dress for Thai temples and palaces
To enter Thai temples and the Grand Palace, your shoulders and knees must be covered at all times. Avoid tank tops, crop tops, ripped jeans, and tight leggings, and always remove your shoes before entering any temple building.
- Cover your shoulders. A simple T-shirt or a blouse with sleeves is perfect. If you are wearing a sleeveless shirt, carry a lightweight linen or cotton scarf to drape over your shoulders. Thin spaghetti straps alone are not considered sufficient coverage.
- Cover your knees. Wear trousers, long skirts, or dresses that fall below the knee. If you choose to wear capri pants or shorter skirts, bring a sarong to wrap around your waist at the entrance. Men should avoid athletic shorts and stick to long linen trousers or smart chinos.
- Choose the right fabric. Thailand is hot and humid. Pack breathable natural fabrics like linen or light cotton. Avoid heavy denim or synthetic blends that trap heat and sweat.
- Prepare your footwear. You will be taking your shoes off constantly. Wear slip-on shoes or sandals that are easy to remove and put back on. Avoid complicated lace-up boots that slow you down at the temple entrance.
- Can I just wear a shawl over my tank top?
- Sometimes it is accepted, but strict guards at the Grand Palace often require sleeves. It is safer to wear a proper T-shirt underneath.
- Are ripped jeans allowed?
- No. Even if they are long, ripped jeans with skin showing through the holes are considered disrespectful in religious sites.
- Do I need to wear socks?
- You don't have to, but temple floors can be extremely hot from the sun. Carrying a pair of light socks in your bag to wear inside the temple is a pro tip.