Angkor Visitor Code of Conduct
After several incidents of tourists behaving badly at the Angkor Archaeological Park, the Apsara Authority has finally released a visitor code of conduct for tourists visiting the temples. The Apsara Authority has already released some materials which have been handed out to Siem Reap hotels, resorts and business establishment. The printed materials are available in English, French, Chinese, Khmer, Japanese, Korean and Chinese. One of the goals of implementing the Angkor Visitor of Conduct is to harmonize tourist experiences with public safety and respect towards the community.
Things to Consider When Visiting the Angkor Wat Temples
Dress Code
Revealing clothes such as shorts and skirts above the knees and showing bare shoulders are prohibited in sacred places. Respectful dress is strongly encouraged in Angkor
Monuments
Touching carvings, sitting on fragile structures, leaning on temple structures, moving or taking archaeological artifacts and graffiti are strictly prohibited. Backpack, umbrellas with sharp tips, tripods and high heels are discouraged from being brought it worn inside the temples.
Sacred Sites
As Angkor is a sacred site, loud conversation and noises and other inappropriate behaviour in Cambodian culture is considered to be offensive and may disturb other visitors. Please keep calm and be respectful.
Restricted Areas
For your own safety and for the conversation of Angkor, please comply with all signs on the site and be mindful of your steps at all times. Do not climb on loose stones.
Smoking and Littering
As a member of the World Health Organization, Angkor has been a smoke free site since 2012. Smoking cigarettes disturbs others and cigarettes can start bush fires. To protect the environment, please do not smoke and litter.
Candy or Money to Children
Buying items, giving candy or money to children encourages them not to attend school but to beg. If you wish to help the children, please consider donating to a recognized charity.
Monks
Monks are revered and respected. If you want to take pictures, please ask for permission first. Women should not touch nor stand or sit too close to monks.
Source: Apsara Authority (http://apsaraauthority.gov.kh/)
