What to Wear to Thai Temples: A Simple Dress Code Guide for Women and Men

Visiting temples is a highlight of any trip to Bangkok, and many visitors ask us what they should wear. Because our scarf shop is at Chatuchak Weekend Market, we meet a lot of travellers who come in on a Saturday hoping to buy something to cover up before a temple visit.

Here is the simple guide we share at our counter. Rules can differ between temples, and major sites may have their own staff checking clothing, so always follow the signs and instructions at the entrance.

The basic idea: cover shoulders and knees

Thai temples are active places of worship. The general expectation for visitors is modest clothing, which usually means:

• Shoulders covered

• Knees covered

• No see-through or very tight clothing

• Clothing that is clean and neat

This applies to everyone, not only women.

What women can wear

Easy options include a loose blouse or T-shirt with sleeves, plus long trousers, a midi or maxi skirt, or a long dress. If you prefer a sleeveless top for the heat, carry a large shawl to wrap around your shoulders when you enter.

A shawl can also be wrapped around the waist as a temporary long skirt if you are wearing shorts, but some temples may not accept this, so long trousers or a long skirt are the safer choice.

What men can wear

A T-shirt or shirt with sleeves and long trousers are the simplest choice. Avoid tank tops and shorts above the knee. Lightweight long trousers in cotton or linen are comfortable in Bangkok heat.

Shoes and behaviour

You will often be asked to remove your shoes before entering temple buildings, so slip-on shoes or sandals make life easier. Inside, keep your voice low, do not point your feet towards Buddha images or monks, and follow posted rules about photos.

Why a large shawl is the most useful item to pack

We always recommend a large shawl because it solves several problems at once:

• Instant shoulder cover over a sleeveless top

• Sun protection while walking between sites

• Warmth in cold air-conditioned malls, vans and planes

• A light, useful souvenir to take home afterwards

Our large shawls measure 130 x 130 cm, big enough to cover the shoulders and upper arms comfortably. They cost 200 THB each or 3 for 550 THB, which is handy if you are travelling as a group. Read more in our temple scarf guide.

Choosing colours and fabric

Any colour is generally fine. Many visitors pick a shawl that matches their outfit so it works for photos too. Our shawls are cotton or polyester. Cotton feels breathable, while polyester holds bright colours and dries quickly. We do not sell silk.

Where to buy a temple shawl before your visit

You can pick one up at our Section 6 shop near Gate 18 (Soi 59/2 Room 043–044 and Soi 59/3 Room 071), open Friday to Sunday 9:00–20:00. Our Section 13 shop (Soi 11/1 Room 013–015) also opens on weekdays: Tuesday to Thursday 9:00–17:00 and Friday to Sunday 9:00–18:00.

See how to find our shops, or browse our online shop and message us to arrange delivery by Grab within Bangkok.

FAQ

Can I wear shorts to a Thai temple?

It is best not to. Long trousers or a long skirt are the safest choice. Rules vary by temple.

Is a scarf enough to cover my shoulders?

A large shawl usually works well. A very small scarf may not cover enough.

Do men need to cover up too?

Yes. The modest dress expectation applies to everyone.

Can I get a shawl delivered to my hotel in Bangkok?

We deliver within Bangkok by Grab. Message us on LINE (gib-atale) to arrange it.