How to dress for Buddhist temples in Thailand

Dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees at all times. Carry a lightweight sarong or scarf in your day bag to quickly wrap around yourself if you are wearing shorts or a tank top.

  1. Cover your shoulders. Avoid tank tops, spaghetti straps, or off-the-shoulder cuts. If you are wearing a sleeveless shirt, keep a light linen shirt or a large scarf in your bag to drape over your shoulders before entering the temple grounds.
  2. Cover your knees. Shorts, mini-skirts, and ripped jeans are not permitted. Wear trousers, maxi skirts, or flowy culottes that extend past the knee. If you arrive in shorts, many temples will charge a small fee (20-50 THB) to rent a wrap-around cloth.
  3. Opt for slip-on footwear. You must remove your shoes before entering any temple building (wihan or bot). Wear sandals or slip-on shoes that are easy to remove and put back on quickly to avoid holding up the line.
  4. Check your fabric. Thailand is hot. Choose breathable, natural fabrics like linen or thin cotton. Avoid tight-fitting leggings or synthetic gym wear, which are often considered disrespectful in sacred spaces.
Can I wear leggings to a temple?
It is discouraged. Even if they cover your knees, they are considered form-fitting and revealing. Stick to loose-fitting trousers.
Do I have to take my shoes off everywhere?
Only inside the temple structures themselves. You can wear shoes on the outer temple grounds and pathways.
Does this apply to children?
While enforcement is more relaxed for young children, it is still polite to ensure they are dressed reasonably well, ideally covering shoulders and knees.