The wai is the traditional Thai greeting: palms pressed together with a slight bow, showing respect.
When meeting elders, monks, parents, or giving heartfelt thanks. Return a wai when you receive one.
1. Basic wai (chest level)
Fingertips at chest level. Used with equals or people of similar age.
2. Elder wai (nose level)
Fingertips touch the nose. Used with elders, parents, teachers, and seniors.
3. Monk/royal wai (forehead level)
Fingertips touch the forehead. Used for monks, royal family, and Buddha images.
The younger or lower-status person wais first; the elder or higher-status person returns it.