Diversity of culture and religion makes the world so delightful. It is only courteous that we maintain and follow the rules of a religion if we are visiting their temple. Many of the travelers interested in visiting the Buddhist temples have no idea about the customs of this religion. Visitors often make disgraceful mistakes and embarrass themselves. The South East Asian countries are dotted with beautiful Buddhist temples which don’t just look gorgeous but offer peace of mind and charm us to the core. If you are also planning to visit one of the famous pagodas or Buddhist temples then you must know the rules and customs.
Do’s
Keep your shoes and hats outside:
You cannot enter a Buddhist temple wearing hat and shoes. You need to leave them outside. The Buddhists believe that wearing shoes and hat in front of the deity is an act of disrespect. You will easily locate the place where other people are also leaving their shoes. On the day of your visit don’t wear hat rather wrap a scarf around your head.
Dress and act in a respectful manner:
Do not wear short skirts, cropped pants or clothes that show your waist line or cleavage. Keep your body covered and dress decently. Keep your cell phones switched off and do not smoke or spit inside the temple. Speak in low voice and do not giggle. People go there to pray and you must respect the feelings of others. Never point at other people who have come to the temple or at the monks even if they seem exotic to you. It is rude because they are just like you and deserve to be treated with respect.
Don’t
Don’t be disrespectful to the deity:
If you are visiting the Buddhist temple then the least you can do is to show some respect. Do not abruptly turn your back to the Buddha statue. Take two, three back steps and then turn. Do not touch or take pictures of the deity without permission.
Don’t overlook the etiquettes while meeting monks:
Never seat above a monk and while giving them something use your right hand. Women cannot directly give monks anything or can’t touch them. Be sensitive and do not eat in front of a monk if you can avoid doing so because they keep fast each day after noon. While greeting a monk you should fold your hands, touch your palms together in a respectful manner, and bow your back.