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Dress code rules for visiting Buddhist temples during Vesak

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Noah D.•9870 rep•2

We are traveling during the Vesak festival What are the exact culture rules and dress codes for visiting temples during this holy week

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culturetemples

8 Answers from travellers

✓Accepted Answer

Vesak is the most sacred time of the year. The standard rule of covering shoulders and knees applies, but during Vesak, it is highly expected that you wear pure white clothing. White symbolizes purity and reverence. While guards might legally let you in wearing beige or light grey, wearing bright tourist colors during Vesak is considered culturally tone-deaf and disrespectful by the local pilgrims.

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B
Bhante S.•11490 rep•1

Got it. White long pants and shirts. Thank you.

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Noah D.•9870 rep•2

You can buy a cheap white cotton shirt at any local textile shop for like 1500 rupees.

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Emma L.•9665 rep•2

If you have tattoos of Buddha, keep them completely covered up.

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D
Dr. Nimal.•9480 rep•1

Always remove your shoes and any hats before stepping onto the sandy compound.

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D
Dr. Nimal.•9480 rep•1

And remember to never pose with your back turned to the Buddha statues for a photo.

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Emma L.•9665 rep•2

Long trousers are much better. Shorts, even long ones, are frowned upon for men and forbidden for women.

3
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Bhante S.•11490 rep•1

Can we wear white shorts if they cover the knee.

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N
Noah D.•9870 rep•2

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