Visa and More

Cambodia is a land where ancient tradition and modern resilience meet. To travel here respectfully and safely in 2026, you need to balance deep-rooted Buddhist customs with a practical awareness of local laws and safety.

Here is the comprehensive guide to the Do’s and Don’ts for Cambodia.

🏛 Religious & Cultural Etiquette

The Khmer people are deeply proud of their heritage. Respecting their spiritual boundaries is the fastest way to earn local favor.

• DO cover shoulders and knees: This is strictly enforced at Angkor Wat and all pagodas. A scarf over the shoulders is often not enough; aim for actual sleeves and long trousers or skirts that cover the knees.
  
  
• DO remove shoes and hats: This applies when entering a temple (vihara), a person’s home, or even some local boutique shops. If you see a pile of flip-flops at the door, add yours to it
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• DO the “Sampeah” greeting: Place your palms together at chest level with a slight bow. For elders or monks, place your hands higher (at nose level).
  
  
• DON’T touch anyone’s head: The head is the most sacred part of the body. Even ruffling a child’s hair is considered a spiritual transgression.
  
  
• DON’T point your feet: Feet are the “lowest” part of the body. Never point them at people, monks, or Buddha statues. When sitting on a floor mat, tuck your legs behind you.
• DON’T touch a monk: Specifically for women, any physical contact with a monk is a major taboo. To give something to a monk, place it on a cloth or table for them to pick up.

💰 Money & Market Manners

As of 2026, Cambodia is pushing for more “Riel-centric” commerce, though the USD remains common.

• DO check your USD bills for tears: Any tiny rip or heavy wear will result in the bill being rejected. Large bills ($50, $100) are heavily scrutinized for counterfeits.
  
  
• DO use the local Riel for small buys: For anything under $5, use Riel. In 2026, many shops are required to display prices in Riel ($1 \approx 4,000–4,100 KHR).
• DO haggle with a smile: This is expected in markets, but “losing face” by getting angry over 50 cents will end the negotiation immediately.
  
  
• DON’T give money to children: It encourages them to stay out of school to beg. If you want to help, donate to organizations like the Lily Foundation or buy from social enterprise cafes.

⚖ Laws & Safety Warnings

• DON’T criticize the Monarchy: Lèse-majesté laws are strictly enforced. Avoid negative comments or jokes about the King or Royal Family, especially on social media..
  
  
• DON’T photograph military sites: This includes government buildings and airports. Your camera may be confiscated, or you could face questioning.
  
  
• DO be vigilant of “Bag Snatching”: In Phnom Penh, drive-by snatches are common. Wear your bag across your chest and away from the street side while walking or riding in a tuk-tuk.

🍽 Dining & Socializing

• DO wait for the eldest to eat first: It’s a sign of respect at the dinner table.
  
  
• DO use a spoon and fork: Use the fork in your left hand to push food onto the spoon in your right. Chopsticks are generally reserved for noodle soups.
  
  
• DO use your right hand: Use it for giving or receiving money, gifts, or food. The left hand is traditionally associated with personal hygiene.
  
  
• DON’T lose your cool: Public displays of anger, shouting, or aggressive behavior are viewed as a total lack of character and will make everyone around you feel uncomfortable.

🏥 Health & Environment

• DO drink only bottled or filtered water: You can use tap water for brushing your teeth. In 2026, look for “Refill Not Landfill” stations to reduce plastic waste.
  
  
• DO use high-DEET mosquito repellent: Protect yourself against mosquitoes, as Dengue fever and Chikungunya are prevalent in tourist hubs. Protect yourself especially at dawn and dusk.
  
  
• DON’T feed the monkeys: Especially around Angkor Wat, they can be aggressive and may carry rabies.