Siem Reap, Cambodia

Rules to follow in Siem Reap

2 laws, restrictions, and customs in Siem Reap that travellers often break without knowing — and the fines or consequences that follow.

Last updated 2026-08-08

1. Cover shoulders and knees at Angkor Wat and all temples

Angkor Wat, Bayon, and all temple sites in the Angkor complex strictly require covered shoulders and knees. Sarongs are available for hire at the entrance but guards will turn away anyone not properly covered.

Where: Religious
Cost: Entry denied; Angkor pass is non-refundable
Tip: Wear lightweight long trousers and a t-shirt to save hassle. Angkor passes are expensive — do not risk being turned away.

2. Do not buy or pose with wildlife — especially bear cubs and slow lorises

Wildlife exploitation is rampant in Cambodian tourist areas. Bears, slow lorises, and other wildlife are kept in poor conditions for tourist photos. Both trading and posing for photos supports poaching and is increasingly criminalised.

Where: Legal
Cost: Criminal charges; fines
Tip: Report wildlife exploitation to the Wildlife Alliance. Do not pay for wildlife photographs.

Rules to follow in Siem Reap

1. Cover shoulders and knees at Angkor Wat and all temples

2. Do not buy or pose with wildlife — especially bear cubs and slow lorises

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