How to Practice Thai Buddhist Monastery Etiquette

Visiting a Thai Buddhist monastery can be an educational and worthwhile experience, whether you are a new convert to Buddhism, a tourist, or a Thai unfamiliar with monastery etiquette. Knowing a few general guidelines can show respect, prevent embarrassment and help you to make the most of your visit.

Steps:
1- Wear modest clothing.In general, everywhere between the elbows and knees must be covered at an absolute minimum, with a modest neckline. Some monasteries may have stricter guidelines. Showy clothing is not appropriate. In Thai culture, black is a funeral colour, so dressing in all black is not advised.
2- Don't wear flashy jewelry. Showy jewelry or other overt displays of wealth are unacceptable.
3- Do not climb on, touch, or pose to take pictures with buddha-images, no matter how old, broken or well-cared for.
4- Take off your shoes before entering any building. Don't be surprised if your shoes are 'borrowed' at a larger monastery with many entrances...just wait patiently and they will be returned.
5- Do not point your feet at the buddha-image, or at anyone else.
6- Women must not touch, be alone with, come close to or speak suggestively to monks. If a woman must offer something to a monk, do not hand it directly to him. Put it down somewhere he can pick it up.
7- Know where to stand or walk.
The person in the highest position is the most respected. If a monk is seated, try not to stand/walk past with your head above him. This can be done by shuffling while kneeling if you need to move.
Do not walk in front of people who are bowing.
Do not step on the threshold.
8- Greet monks by pressing your palms together, bowing your head, and moving them to your forehead. The monk will not return this gesture. He is not being impolite, just accepting your respect.
9- Do not kill any insect, no matter how seemingly insignificant.
10- Always pour the libation jar or container with two hands.
11- When offering food, do not touch the edge of the alms-bowl with the spoon.
12- Do not bring alcohol into the monastery grounds.