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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.