The wai (Thai: ไหว้, pronounced [wâːj]) is a greeting in Thailand that consists of a slight bow, with the palms pressed together in a prayer-like fashion. It has its origin in the Indian Añjali Mudrā, like the Indian namaste and Burmese mingalaba.

Oct 30, 2024 · First, put your palms together in front of your chest so that each finger is touching its counterpart. Then, bring your hands to touch the middle of your chest and slightly bow your head so that your index fingers touch your nose; this …

Oct 6, 2020 · The most common Thai Wai (ไหว้ wâai) is when you place your palms together (like a prayer), place your hands in front of your chest, close to your body, and slightly bow your head.

Jun 23, 2022 · Thai culture dictates that a person should bow their head slightly with their palms pressed together to indicate respect, and it can also be very subtle in terms of both the depth of the bow and the height of the hands.

Feb 10, 2025 · A traditional Thai greeting is the Wai. Thai people greet each other with this warm gesture by clasping their hands on their chests, bowing, and saying, “Sawasdee.”

The “Wai” is a traditional Thai greeting that involves a slight bow, with the palms pressed together in a prayer-like fashion. It’s an integral part of Thai etiquette, showing respect and friendliness.

Nov 10, 2024 · Welcome to Thailand, where a simple gesture called the “wai” can convey respect, gratitude, and even apology, all with a gentle bow and joined hands. If you’re unfamiliar with the wai, you’re in for a treat—it’s a charming and essential part …

Oct 17, 2022 · At the core, to wai you just have to put your hands, palms facing each other, together, placing them in front of your chest, or to be precise, in front of your sternum. Your elbows should be kept squarely close to the side of your …

Mar 26, 2025 · What Is the Thai Wai? The Thai wai is more than a greeting —it’s a sign of respect, gratitude, humility, and even apology. You press your palms together, fingers pointing up, and slightly bow your head. Thai people use it to say hello, goodbye, thank you, or sorry, making it a daily ritual from quiet villages to busy streets across Thailand.

Sep 28, 2023 · The ‘wai’ is the Thai form of greeting and farewell, which consists of holding your hands up with your palms pressed together like in prayer, touching the tips of your fingers to your chin, nose or forehead (depending on the status of the person you are giving one to) and then bowing your head.