What is Krama and how to wear it?

Krama is a piece of Cambodia that you can always carry with you. Even at home in the Czech Republic. They are worn by women, men, and even children from all social classes. Cambodian silk or cotton scarves called Krama are an integral part of the local culture and a fashion accessory. Cambodians can use them in a thousand ways!

It is not exactly certain how the scarf became an integral part of Khmer culture, although historians believe it may be related to ancient ties to the Indian subcontinent, where similar scarves are very popular. However, it is interesting that no other country in Southeast Asia historically wore scarves to such an extent, which makes Krama an even more distinctive cultural heritage.

Neither religion nor politics

Unlike other cultures where scarves are perceived as part of religion and primarily serve to cover the head, Krama is a completely non-religious and non-political symbol. Thanks to this, this piece of silk fabric can basically be used for anything: from covering the head, carrying children, to a hammock.

Krama is even part of traditional Khmer martial arts. During a match, fighters wrap it around their waist, head, or wrist. Mothers, on the other hand, use krama to wrap their children and carry them on their backs. Most commonly, however, krama is used as a classic scarf or shawl that helps protect against the Cambodian sun.

How do Kramas differ from each other?

Krama was also a way for higher social classes to distinguish themselves from lower ones. The highest-ranking people had Kramas made of silk, and in some cases, a silk krama even replaced our classic engagement ring during a marriage proposal.

The price of a krama is also determined by its pattern. Here, of course, the more complex, the more expensive such a piece of fabric is. The production process of krama has undergone some development over the centuries, but it is still purely handmade work involving several people. At the end, a piece of Cambodia is created that you can wear too. And we guarantee it will look good on you. :-)

What other souvenir can you bring home from Cambodia? Read our article about the most authentic souvenirs from this fairy-tale country.