Angkor Wat Dress Code: What You Can and Cannot Wear
Angkor Wat dress code explained: respectful clothing, shoulders and knees, footwear, temple etiquette and Bakan tower rules.
Updated 20 Oct 2026
Angkor Wat dress code explained: respectful clothing, shoulders and knees, footwear, temple etiquette and Bakan tower rules.
The basic Angkor dress code
Angkor is an active sacred landscape, not simply an archaeological attraction. Wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees when entering temples, especially sacred upper areas.
What to avoid
Very short shorts, very short skirts, exposed shoulders and clothing that is obviously inappropriate for a religious site can lead to denied access to sensitive areas. Carrying a scarf is useful, but dressing appropriately from the start is more reliable.
Bakan tower
The upper sanctuary at Angkor Wat applies stricter access controls. APSARA asks visitors to follow the visitor code of conduct, remain orderly and respect the sacred character of the tower.
Shoes and practical clothing
Lightweight breathable clothing is ideal in Cambodia's heat. Comfortable footwear with grip matters because temple stairs can be steep and stone surfaces become slippery after rain.
Temple etiquette
Do not climb on restricted structures, touch carvings unnecessarily, disturb monks or worshippers, or leave litter. Angkor's rules are designed to protect both the monuments and the living religious culture.
More planning
Read the full Angkor guide and opening-hours guide before your visit.
Practical note
Rules, access conditions and prices can change. For ticketing and visitor regulations, check the official Angkor Enterprise and APSARA National Authority information shortly before your visit.
Hey It's Cambodia practical take
The practical version
If your shoulders and knees are already covered before you leave the hotel, you avoid having to improvise at the temple. Lightweight loose clothing is usually the easiest solution in the heat.
Respect is broader than clothing
The official visitor code also covers behavior around monks, climbing, touching stonework, litter and interactions with children. Dress code is only one part of visiting a sacred and protected site responsibly.
Keep planning
Angkor visitor guide · Angkor with children · Angkor opening hours · What to pack for Siem Reap