Khmer superstitions travellers often notice
From hanging fruit over doors to avoiding certain dates, Cambodia has many everyday beliefs. Here are the superstitions visitors are most likely to notice and what they mean.
In this guide
Daily life in Cambodia is shaped by a mix of Buddhist teaching, spirit belief and folk tradition. Many beliefs are practised casually, and people hold them to different degrees. Here are some you might notice on your travels.
Protection at home
- Spirit houses outside homes and businesses keep land spirits content.
- Hanging items over doorways, such as certain fruits, plants or charms, are believed to keep bad spirits out.
- Blessed strings tied around wrists after visiting a pagoda or ceremony offer protection and good luck.
Auspicious days
Cambodians often consult an achar or fortune teller to choose dates for weddings, moving house, opening a business or starting a long journey. Some days are considered lucky; others are best avoided.
Body and behaviour
- The head is the most sacred part of the body; don't touch people's heads.
- Feet are considered low; avoid pointing them at people or Buddha images.
- Whistling at night is believed by some to attract spirits.
- Cutting hair or nails at night is avoided by some people.
Ghosts and spirits
Many Cambodians take ghost stories seriously. Some places, such as certain trees, abandoned buildings or old wells, are thought to be inhabited by spirits. You may notice people avoiding them after dark.
Pregnancy and birth
Traditions surround pregnancy, birth and the period after, such as keeping new mothers warm and following special diets. Practices vary between families and regions.
Money and luck
- Shops may burn incense and make offerings in the morning to attract customers.
- Some sellers believe the first sale of the day sets the tone, so they may be keen to close it.
Numbers and colours
Certain colours are linked to days of the week, and some people wear them for luck. Practices vary, and younger urban Cambodians may not follow them.
How to respond
You don't need to follow these beliefs, but respecting them shows good manners. If a host asks you not to do something, such as sweeping at night or stepping over certain objects, go along with it. Asking politely about the meaning often leads to interesting conversations.