Angkor Visitor Code of Conduct: Here’s Everything You Need to Know
Visiting the ancient temples of Angkor is a journey back in time, offering glimpses into the grandeur of the Khmer Empire and its rich spiritual and cultural heritage. As the former capital of the Khmer Empire (9th to 15th centuries) and once the largest city in the world in the 12th century, Angkor’s historic significance is unparalleled. However, this stunning location is more than an ancient ruin—it’s a vibrant, sacred site where thousands of Cambodian citizens engage in worship, meditation, and daily life.
In recent years, the APSARA National Authority has worked diligently to preserve Angkor’s sanctity and beauty. This conservation effort is supported by the Visitor Code of Conduct, a set of guidelines created in collaboration with local communities, visitors, guides, and preservation experts. By following these guidelines, you can help protect Angkor’s integrity while enhancing your experience. Here’s a closer look at the essential practices for visiting Angkor with respect and responsibility.
1. Dress Code
One of the most crucial aspects of respecting Angkor’s spiritual significance is dressing appropriately. Many of Angkor’s temples are still active religious sites, and visitors are expected to observe a modest dress code:
- Avoid wearing revealing clothes such as shorts, skirts above the knee, or tops that expose the shoulders.
- It’s recommended to dress respectfully with long pants or skirts and sleeved shirts when entering sacred areas.
This respectful attire is not only appreciated by locals and visitors alike, but it also shows a deep respect for Angkor’s spiritual environment.
2. Sacred Sites
Angkor’s temples are not just tourist attractions; they’re places of worship that require reverence and tranquility. To honor the space:
- Keep conversations low and avoid any loud noises that may disturb the sacred atmosphere or other visitors’ experiences.
- Refrain from actions that might be considered disrespectful, such as loud laughter or playing music.
By maintaining a calm and respectful demeanor, you’re helping to preserve the peaceful ambiance that defines Angkor.
3. Smoking and Littering
The beautiful natural surroundings of Angkor are vulnerable to environmental harm, so special efforts have been made to keep the site clean and free from pollutants.
- Since 2012, Angkor has been a smoke-free zone as part of its membership in the World Health Organization. Smoking not only disturbs the atmosphere but also presents a fire hazard in the dry, wooded areas around the temples.
- Littering is strictly prohibited as well. Dispose of any waste responsibly, and use designated bins or carry trash out with you.
By respecting these rules, you contribute to the environmental health and beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. Monks
Monks are a respected presence at Angkor, and they continue to visit or even reside at these temples. Monks are highly revered figures in Cambodia, and interacting with them appropriately is essential.
- If you would like to take a photo of or with a monk, please ask for permission first. It’s customary to approach monks with humility and respect.
- Women, in particular, should avoid direct contact with monks. This includes standing too close, touching, or sitting near them, as Buddhist customs prohibit physical contact between monks and women.
Showing respect to monks contributes to the authenticity and reverence of the Angkor experience, aligning with the values upheld by the local community.
Why the Visitor Code of Conduct Matters
The Angkor Visitor Code of Conduct isn’t just a set of rules; it’s a shared understanding between locals and visitors about how to honor Angkor’s historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. The APSARA National Authority, responsible for Angkor’s preservation since 1995, has invested considerable effort in balancing public safety and cultural respect while ensuring that tourism can coexist harmoniously with the local way of life.
With over 130,000 inhabitants in the Angkor area, many of whom are descendants of families who have lived there for generations, the temples are much more than historic relics—they’re an integral part of a living community. Adhering to the guidelines set by the Visitor Code of Conduct helps ensure that this sacred site remains a source of pride and a symbol of resilience for Cambodians and a place of awe for international visitors.
Final Thoughts
Your visit to Angkor is an opportunity not just to witness the remarkable legacy of the Khmer Empire but also to show respect for a culture that treasures its past while looking toward the future. Following the Visitor Code of Conduct allows you to experience Angkor’s beauty and spirituality in a way that honors its history and respects its present.
Before your visit, take a few moments to familiarize yourself with these guidelines, and enjoy a journey that will be both enlightening and respectful. By observing these codes of conduct, you contribute to preserving Angkor’s sacred and cultural landscape for future generations.
Official source: https://angkor.com.kh/code-of-conduct.html