The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is inviting travellers and visitors from around the world to join the Thai people in marking the start of this year’s three-month Buddhist Lent period or Khao Phansa. Khao Phansa falls on the first day after the full moon of the eight lunar month, or on 31 July this year.
Legend has it that when the Lord Buddha was travelling and spreading his teachings, it was traditional for ascetics to retire to retreats during the rainy season. This period was known as ‘vassa’ and was aimed at preventing crop damage during vital growing periods. During this time, monks stay within their temples for study and adhere strictly to the teachings of the Lord Buddha.
Among some of the more unique celebrations marking Buddhist Lent in Thailand in 2015 include:
Nakhon Phanom Candle Festival, from 31 July – 1 August, Wat Phra That Phanom will be the venue for a colourful procession of exquisitely-carved candles, Miss Candle Beauty Contest, classical dancing, a mass merit-making ceremony, and the chance to pay homage to the highly-respected Phra That Phanom.
Candle Procession and Elephant Back Merit Making, from 29-30 July at the Monument of Phaya Surin Phakdi Sri Narong Changwang, Surin boasts a procession of nearly 100 elaborately-decorated elephants carrying some of the city’s most highly-revered monks around Surin in a unique and memorable merit-making ceremony.
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