Thailand gears up for the candle festival, a captivating blend of spirituality and festivity.
Devotees, Buddhist followers, and artists unite to present beautifully-crafted candles to temples, symbolizing the guiding light for monks and novices during their retreat and Buddhist teachings. From Ubon Ratchathani to Nan provinces, here are the country’s best places to celebrate the candle festival.
UBON RATCHATHANI
In northeastern Thailand, Ubon Ratchaburi province takes centre stage during the mesmerizing Khao Phansa Festival. Exquisite wax craftsmanship graces Buddha images and celestial angels, alluring both tourists and devoted attendees. International artists and college students now join in, eager to showcase their talents. Visit candle-making communities like Wat Sripradoo, Wat Thungsrimuang, and Wat Pholphaen for an immersive experience, witnessing artisans collaborate on intricate candles and decorations. On August 1, the festival culminates with a vibrant candle float procession, captivating thousands of spectators.
SARABURI
In Saraburi province, from July 31 to August 2, the revered temple of Wat Phra Phutthabat will host the annual Tak Bat Dok Mai, an enchanting Flower Offering ceremony. Drawing more than 10,000 visitors, the event sees devotees flocking to present the rare “Khao-Phansa” flowers to over 3,000 Buddhist monks. The exclusive Dok Khao-Phansa flower is found solely in this region and holds special significance as it marks the onset of Vassa, a profound three-month-long Buddhist Lent. The flower offerings, a spectacle to behold, commence at the early hour of 6 am. Easily accessible, Saraburi lies just an hour and a half’s drive to the north of Bangkok.
AYUTTHAYA
On Tuesday, August 1, in the heart of central Thailand, the quaint riverside community of Ladchado in Ayutthaya will joyously celebrate the Buddhist Lent with its captivating candle festival. Visitors will be mesmerised by the sight of exquisitely decorated floats festooned with candles along the tranquil Ladchado Canal. This spiritual yet festive event showcases a breathtaking candle procession, where vibrant boats carry the candles to Ladchado temple. Nestled in Phak Hai district, Ladchado, approximately 40 kilometers west of downtown Ayutthaya, beckons travellers seeking cultural richness and the allure of the picturesque countryside.
NAN
In the serene district of Wiang Sa, Nan province, a heartwarming tradition will unfold on Wednesday, August 3, where locals will humbly offer small pieces of bee wax to Buddhist monks at Wat Bun Yuen temple. This unique and authentic bee wax offering has been a cherished act of virtue since the early 1800s, following the spirit of almsgiving. As the Buddhist monks enter their three-month retreat during Buddhist Lent, the bee wax will be transformed into intricate craving candles, supporting the monks in their devoted study of Buddhism. This simple yet beautiful ceremony reflects the essence of the local community’s faith and devotion, shunning extravagance for a genuine expression of spiritual practice.
SURIN
The mural showcases how elephants contribute to Buddhism, and Surin’s majestic elephants prove its significance. Surin stands out as it pays homage to these revered creatures during Buddhist Lent. The Candle Procession and Elephant Back Merit Making, held at the Monument of Phaya Surin Phakdi Sri Narong Changwang with over 100 elaborately-decorated elephants. These magnificent pachyderms carry esteemed monks through Surin downtown, adding to the profound symbolism of the merit-making celebration.
