Buddhist temple etiquette

• Remove Your Hat and Shoes: Shoes should always be removed and left outside of the main worship area. The pile of shoes is an obvious indication of where to leave them.
• Show Respect: Turn off mobile phones, remove headphones, lower your voice, avoid inappropriate conversation, remove hats, and do not smoke or chew gum.
• Cover Yourself: This is the rule most ignored by tourists who dress for the heat in countries around Southeast Asia. Shoulders should be covered and long-pants worn rather than shorts. Some temples in tourist places may be more lenient, but your modesty will be appreciated.
• Respect the Buddha Statues: Never touch, sit near, or climb on a Buddha statue or the raised platform. Get permission before taking photographs and never do so during worship. When exiting, back away from the Buddha before turning your back.
• Don't Point: Pointing at things or people around the temple is considered extremely rude. To indicate something, use your right hand with the palm facing upwards. When sitting, never point your feet at a person or image of Buddha.
• Stand Up: If you happen to be sitting in the worship area when monks or nuns enter, stand to show respect; wait until they have finished their prostrations before sitting again.

(Source: http://goseasia.about.com/od/travelplanning/a/visiting_buddhist_temples.htm retrieved 24/2/2014)

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