Cover in Bagan/temples
 

I'll be in Bagan in June, wondering if my knees/elbows need to be covered? My guidebooks have conflicting information, and I've found that I stay coolest in shorts and long sleeve wicking t-shirt. (So knees wouldn't be covered)
Thanks!

I've seen elbows and knees in my most recent guidebook, however, I see lots of photos where people are in sundresses... so I'm surious as well!

You are expected to have shoulders covered, so no sleeveless tops or tank tops. Long shorts seem to be ok - just above the knee. Bring along a sarong or a wrap so you can cover your knees (by tying it as a skirt) just in case.

You will see plenty of photos of people dressed inappropriately - everywhere in the world. Some places, locals will correct you, some they will not.

Because I am so fair-skinned, I do best having as much skin covered as possible. I find light long pants cooler than shorts because the sun is so intense.

My son and I were in Bagan last year for three days, and my son wore Nike gym shorts and a t shirt the whole time, and no one cared. For the most part, the temples are open with no guards and no one taking tickets. Only the major temples have ticket checkers or guards, but they are on auto pilot and do not care what you are wearing.

However, temples in other parts of Burma (Mandalay, for example) do require that your knees be covered (but never your elbows). You can borrow "skirts" at the temples, or you can bring a long scarf from home that you tie around your waist (I sewed up the sides on black linen scarfs, or you can have a tailor do it.)

To confirm what all the other posts infer-If the Buddhist feel that your shoulders and knees should be covered whilst visiting pagodas then you should follow their wishes.This is no different to respecting the rules in Sikh temples,mosques or churches/synagogues.
I have seen ladies of Mediterranean origin try to enter pagodas in high heels and a strappy mini dress (the same type who would pose topless on Ngapali Beach)and then get really stroppy when told to cover up.
Shoulders and knees should be covered.
SS