Buddhist rules, respect for monks and sensitivity around the recent history.

Cambodians are welcoming and patient; the country practices Theravada Buddhism, and respect for traditions is valued here.

Good to know

  • The “sampeah” greeting is palms together at the chest; respond in kind.
  • Enter temples and Angkor with your shoulders and knees covered; shoes and headwear are removed.
  • Monks: women may not touch them or hand things to them directly.
  • The head is not touched, and you do not point with your feet or show the soles.

History

The subject of the Khmer Rouge and the genocide of the 1970s is a living wound. At the Tuol Sleng museum and the Killing Fields, behave quietly and respectfully, without smiling selfies.

An unusual fact: a temple on the flag

Cambodia is the only country in the world with a building on its national flag: Angkor Wat. For the Khmer the temple is a symbol of the nation, which is why respectful behavior toward Angkor is especially valued here.