Cambodia is famous for its beautiful ancient temples, rich culture, and friendly people. To ensure you have a smooth journey and connect well with the locals, it helps to understand their basic customs.
Here is a simple, straightforward list of the important do’s and don’ts when you visit.
The Do’s
Use the Traditional Greeting
When you meet someone, it is polite to use the local greeting called the Sampeah. You do this by pressing your palms together in front of your chest and giving a slight bow. It shows respect and warmth.
Dress Modestly
Cambodia is a conservative society. When you visit villages, towns, or sacred places like temples, make sure to cover your shoulders and knees. Lightweight pants and long-sleeved shirts are perfect for staying cool while keeping covered.
Take Off Your Shoes
Always remove your footwear before entering someone’s home or a temple building. Look at the entrance, if you see shoes lined up outside, you should leave yours there too.
Ask Before Taking Photos
Local people, especially monks and elders, are often happy to let you take their picture, but always ask for permission first out of politeness.
Use Both Hands
When you pass an item to someone, give a gift, or receive a business card, use your right hand or both hands together. This shows respect.
The Don’ts
Do Not Touch Someone’s Head
In Cambodian culture, the head is viewed as the most sacred and spiritually important part of the body. Never touch anyone on the head, including young children.
Do Not Point With Your Feet
Feet are considered the lowest and least clean part of the body. Avoid pointing your feet at people, monks, or religious items like statues of Buddha. When you sit on the floor in a temple, tuck your legs behind or beside you.
Women Must Not Touch Monks
Monks are highly respected. By tradition, women are not allowed to touch a monk or hand things directly to him. If you want to give something to a monk, place the item down within his reach or hand it to a man to pass over.
Do Not Lose Your Temper
Showing anger, shouting, or raising your voice is viewed very poorly. It causes everyone involved to lose dignity. If a problem comes up, stay calm, smile, and speak softly to resolve it.
Keep Public Affection to a Minimum
Holding hands is fine, but intense public displays of affection like kissing and hugging are considered inappropriate in public areas.
