In Thailand, Buddhist monks are highly respected and are expected to live by a strict set of monastic rules known as the Vinaya. One of these rules pertains to physical contact with women. According to the Vinaya, a monk must not touch a woman or receive anything directly from her hands. This rule is in place to avoid any suggestion of impropriety and to help monks maintain their commitment to celibacy.

If you are a woman and wish to offer something to a monk, such as food during the alms-giving ceremony known as Tak Bat, you must place the offering on a piece of cloth or on a receiving stand from which the monk can collect it without direct contact. Alternatively, a man can serve as an intermediary to hand over the object to the monk.

It is not only women who should be mindful of touching monks. In a broader sense, it is considered polite for both men and women to avoid physical contact with monks in Thailand. This is out of respect for their religious practice. For instance, when handing something to a monk, regardless of the giver's gender, it is recommended to do so with both hands, and if the monk is seated, it is respectful for the person offering the item to kneel or lower themselves to maintain a respectful posture.

This respectful distance is also observed by the monks themselves, who are generally very mindful of their actions and their interactions with laypeople, to ensure they maintain their vows and uphold the dignity of their monastic life.

If you are a visitor in Thailand, it's important to be aware of this cultural and religious norm as a sign of respect towards Buddhism and the monastic community. Also, observe other local customs, such as removing your shoes before entering a temple and dressing modestly when visiting religious sites.