Tourists in Cambodia may have some problems with the fake monks who annoy and take advantage of the tourists. Here are some tips for you to distinguish the fake monks and the real monks.
How to Spot a Fake Monk
- The fake monk will try to approach you directly to ask for money. A real monk will never do that
- A fake monk tends to target foreign tourist because they often believe easily he is a real monk
- He gives you stuff like gold-colored tickets, tarot cards, a beaded bracelet then receive the money in return
- He can even touch you, which is a NO-NO for the real monk
- You should pay attention to what he wears under his ‘robe’: shoes, socks, pants, even jeans
- He would become aggressive when photographed and filmed
How to Avoid a Fake Monk
It is very easy for you to distinguish between a fake and real monk if you pay a little attention to these characters above. Real one he will never actively beg for money. He just simply stand there and wait till someone come then donate their money into his alms bowl. As a tourist, it may be confused to recognize whether he is fake or not. Many naive tourists have to fall into their trap. You can say out loud: “You are a fake monk, stay away from me”
You may encounter fake monks at famous destinations like Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, etc. The problem here is these fake monks misunderstood this country and destroy the Buddhist reputation.
Being aware of the possibility of encountering fake monks is important for tourists during your Cambodia tour. By familiarizing themselves with distinguishing characteristics and following helpful tips, travelers can navigate encounters with confidence and respect. Safeguarding against potential scams ensures a more authentic and enjoyable experience while interacting with genuine monks and immersing oneself in Cambodia's rich cultural heritage during your tour.
