Monks and women: the no-contact rule

Thailand's monkhood (the sangha) is deeply respected - second only to the monarchy. One rule often surprises female visitors: monks follow vows that forbid them from touching a woman or receiving anything directly from a woman's hand. In practice, if a woman wants to give something to a monk, she places it on a cloth the monk lays out, on a table, or hands it to a man to pass on. On buses, boats, and songthaews, women should avoid sitting directly next to a monk. Men should also show respect: greet monks with a higher wai, give up seats, and do not stand over or tower above a seated monk if you can avoid it. Anyone may speak with monks politely - many enjoy practising English - but physical contact rules and modest dress still apply. Never touch a monk's robes or shoulder, even in a friendly way.

Highlights

• Monks cannot touch women or receive items directly from them
• Women place offerings on a cloth or table, or pass via a man
• Women should not sit next to monks on transport
• Everyone greets monks with a respectful wai

Local tips

• At morning alms rounds, women give food by placing it into the monk's bowl without touching him
• If unsure, watch what Thai people do and copy them

Frequently asked questions

Can women talk to monks in Thailand?

Yes, polite conversation is fine. The rules concern physical contact and handing objects directly, not speech.

How does a woman give something to a monk?

Place it on the monk's cloth or a table, or hand it to a man to pass on - never directly into his hands.