Etiquette & taboos

Etiquette & taboos

Understanding local customs is where a journey begins. Find the topics that matter to you and feel at ease wherever you go.

Cambodia

3 rules found

Essential restrictionsEveryday mannersPlace-specific guidance · Cambodia

Cambodia: drugs, including cannabis, are a serious crime

Do

Stay away from drugs of any kind

Don’t

Possessing or trafficking any drugs

Can lead to a long prison sentence, up to life imprisonment.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Cambodia travel advice

Cultural sensitivitiesPhotos & dronesPlace-specific guidance · Cambodia

Cambodia: ask before photographing monks

Do

Ask before photographing people, especially monks

Don’t

Photographing monks and religious figures without permission

Respect local customs.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Cambodia travel advice

Cultural sensitivitiesDressPlace-specific guidance · Cambodia

Cambodia: cover shoulders and knees at Angkor Wat and other religious sites

Do

Cover your shoulders and wear trousers or a skirt below the knee

Don’t

Wearing shorts or a skirt above the knee

You may be refused entry to Angkor Wat and other religious sites.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Cambodia travel advice

Site-specific notes 2

Taken from the "don'ts" on each site page here. Open a site for its full etiquette and background.

Angkor Wat

The central sanctuary of Angkor Wat has daily visitor limits, and anyone not dressed appropriately is refused entry
don't carve anything or take stones
don't give children sweets or cash (it encourages begging) — donate to reputable NGOs instead.

Bayon (Angkor Thom)

Clothes must cover shoulders and knees, or you may be refused entry to some areas
don't climb or lean on carvings
don't touch the reliefs
don't give money to begging children (it keeps them out of school)