How to behave around Buddhist monks
Monks are part of daily life in Cambodia. Here's how to greet them, offer food, take photos and avoid mistakes, especially if you are a woman.
In this guide
Saffron-robed monks are a familiar sight in Cambodia, walking their morning alms rounds, studying at pagodas or travelling around town. They are deeply respected, and a few rules of etiquette help visitors show the same respect.
Greeting monks
Greet monks with a respectful sampeah, palms together and raised to around nose or forehead level with a slight bow. You don't need to speak, but a smile is welcome.
Rules for women
Monks follow strict rules that prevent physical contact with women.
- Don't touch a monk, even accidentally, or brush against his robes.
- Don't hand anything directly to a monk. Place it on a table or a cloth in front of him, or ask a man to pass it on.
- Avoid sitting right next to a monk on public transport or in a tuk-tuk.
Positioning and posture
- Don't sit or stand higher than a monk if you can help it.
- When sitting near monks, tuck your feet behind you and don't point them at anyone.
- Let monks go first through doorways and on paths.
Offering food
Monks rely on alms. In the early morning, they walk through neighbourhoods with bowls, and people give rice and other food. If you'd like to take part:
- Buy simple, fresh food, such as cooked rice or packaged snacks.
- Remove your shoes and kneel or stand respectfully.
- Place the food in the bowl without touching the monk.
- Don't expect conversation; monks receive in silence.
Photography
- Ask permission before taking a close-up photograph.
- Don't stage photos or interrupt monks during prayers or alms rounds.
- Avoid using flash.
Conversations
Many young monks are happy to practise English and chat about their studies. In some pagodas, monks welcome questions about Buddhism. Keep conversations respectful, and avoid topics such as relationships or alcohol.
Things to avoid
- Offering money directly by hand.
- Buying alcohol or other things monks can't accept.
- Treating monks as a tourist attraction.
A note on fake monks
Occasionally, people dressed as monks ask tourists for money in busy areas. Genuine monks don't pressure people for donations. If unsure, give to a pagoda's donation box instead.