Cambodia is a country of profound history, quiet resilience and deep spirituality. While visitors are warmly welcomed, Cambodia’s past and cultural values shape how people interact today. Travellers who approach the country with sensitivity, patience and respect often experience some of the most meaningful connections in Southeast Asia.
This guide covers the key do’s and don’ts of travelling in Cambodia, helping you navigate temples, daily interactions, food customs and social norms with confidence.
Respect, History and Cultural Sensitivity
Cambodia’s recent history is deeply personal for many people. The Khmer Rouge period affected almost every family, and while Cambodians are open and friendly, some topics require sensitivity.
Do:
• Show respect when discussing history
• Listen more than you speak
• Be mindful at memorial sites
Avoid:
• Casual jokes about war or genocide
• Pressing people for personal stories
• Treating historical sites as photo props
When visiting places like the Killing Fields or Tuol Sleng, quiet behaviour and modest dress are essential. These sites are memorials, not tourist attractions.
Temples, Monks and Religious Spaces
Buddhism is central to Cambodian life, and temples (wats) are active places of worship.
Temple etiquette:
• Cover shoulders and knees
• Remove shoes before entering buildings
• Speak softly and move calmly
• Keep your head lower than monks
Never:
• Touch monks (especially if you are a woman)
• Pose disrespectfully with Buddha images
• Point your feet at altars or people
As in Thailand and Laos, feet are considered unclean and the head sacred — a regional belief explained further in our Thailand Travel Etiquette and Laos Travel Etiquette guides.
Dress Code: Modesty Matters
Cambodia is conservative, particularly outside tourist centres like Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
Acceptable:
• Lightweight trousers or skirts
• T-shirts with sleeves
• Practical, neat clothing
Best avoided:
• Walking around shirtless
• Very short shorts or skirts
• Swimwear in towns or villages
At Angkor Wat, dress codes are strictly enforced — covering knees and shoulders is non-negotiable.
If you’re planning multiple countries, our Packing Smart for Southeast Asia: Less is More guide helps you pack appropriately without overpacking.
Greetings, Body Language and Politeness
Cambodians are gentle and reserved in public interactions.
• A slight bow with palms together (sampeah) is traditional
• Handshakes are increasingly common
• Smiling shows respect
Avoid:
• Touching someone’s head
• Public displays of anger
• Confrontation or raised voices
Saving face is important. Calm, polite behaviour will almost always lead to better outcomes.
Eating Etiquette and Food Customs
Meals in Cambodia are often shared and social.
At the table:
• Wait for elders to begin
• Use your right hand when sharing food
• Accept food politely
Don’t:
• Waste food
• Point chopsticks at people
• Rush meals unnecessarily
Street food is a highlight of Cambodian travel, but hygiene awareness matters. For practical advice, see Food Safety in Southeast Asia: Eat Like a Local, Stay Healthy.
Money, Bargaining and Tipping
Cambodia is practical and relaxed when it comes to money.
• Bargain gently at markets
• Fixed prices are common in towns
• Tipping is not expected, but appreciated
US dollars are widely used alongside the Cambodian riel. Understanding how money works region-wide helps avoid confusion — our Money Matters in Southeast Asia guide explains this clearly.
Village Visits and Rural Etiquette
Many travellers pass through rural Cambodia on overland routes.
• Ask before taking photos
• Dress conservatively
• Avoid giving money or sweets to children
• Respect private spaces
Responsible village visits are about observation and learning, not intrusion. Our Responsible Travel in Southeast Asia: Small Choices, Big Impact article goes deeper into this topic.
Border Crossings and Overland Travel
Cambodia is often entered overland from Thailand or Vietnam. Border crossings are straightforward but can be busy.
If you’re crossing by land, make sure you’re aware of current visa rules by reading Border Crossings Made Easy: Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam & Malaysia.
Cambodia’s e-visa system has simplified entry at many crossings, making overland travel easier than ever.
Public Behaviour and Social Awareness
Cambodia values calmness and politeness.
• Keep voices low
• Be patient
• Avoid public arguments
Behaviour that may seem harmless elsewhere — such as loud complaints or sarcasm — can feel uncomfortable in Cambodian culture.
