Travel in Myanmar - Things to do when visiting temples The people in Myanmar are very religious and respect really religious works. Therefore, you should pay attention to some rules when you visit the temples while travel in Myanmar. Remove your shoes before entering into the temple: Normally, you would have to take off shoes and socks to entry to the temple, except permitted places. Similar rules are applied in the monasteries, but some places allow guests to enter with shoes. You pay attention to observe what locals residents do to follow them. Wear clothes correctly: Do not wear shorts, sleeveless shirts when you are in sacred places during the travel in Myanmar. This rule is applied for women but also for men. The women cannot wear only short skirts, leggings, transparent clothing, neckline tee-shirt... Keep silence: When you are in religious works, you should avoid playing, shouting and teasing each other ... In the Shwedagon Pagoda, you do not listen to music... Photography: In some temples, photos are charged or prohibited to keep the sacred atmosphere. Therefore, you should pay attention to the signs or ask your guide before taking pictures. You do not touch the statues of the Buddha. The monks do not like being photographed. If you want, you should ask them permission first before photographing. Sitting position: Do not sit with your back turned to the Buddha because it would be considered as an act of disrespect. When you have a break in pagodas, you pay attention to your feet as: When sitting on the floor in the temple, you will also need to be careful not to stretch the legs to statues or stupas.... Do not show your affection, sentimental actions...: Religious buildings in Myanmar are the place where the rituals are organized to express the respect, so you're not allowed to express emotions such as hugging, teasing and kissing (even kissing on joy). Hand in hand can be accepted, but it is better to avoid it. Do not bother people when the pray or meditate: Do not disturb people in prayer, in meditation...
During travel Myanmar, you will see many people who are in prayer or meditation. You should avoid speaking loudly or laughing. You must not pass in front of them or touch them. Respect for monks: The monks are well respected in Myanmar. Travelers should not try to shake hands. Women are not allowed to touch the monks. When you want to offer them gifts, you need to use both hands. You create a sufficient distance to allow them to take it without having to lean forward. In addition, visitors should avoid walking on the shade of the monks when they are standing, especially the shadow of the head, because it is considered as an act of disrespect‌ You can send us an email to: long@ethnies-mekong.com for free details to help you to better organize your travel in Myanmar.