Tucked away in the heart of Phayao Province, the serene Phayao Reservoir provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable celebration – Magha Puja Day. On February 12, this revered Buddhist festival, also known as Makha Bucha Day, takes place against the backdrop of calm waters, captivating thousands with its spectacular candlelit boat processions.
Magha Puja commemorates a historic moment in Buddhism—the gathering of 1,250 enlightened monks who assembled to hear a sermon by Lord Buddha. In Thailand, the “Wian Thian” ritual sees Buddhists partaking in candlelit processions around temples, a practice that fosters reflection and devotion. However, Phayao Reservoir offers a unique twist to this tradition: devotees board long-tailed boats to reach Wat Tilok Aram, a Buddhist monastery nestled peacefully on an island in the lake.
As the sun sets, casting an orange glow over the water, locals and visitors alike await their turn to embark on the boats. The flickering candlelight adorning each vessel illuminates the peaceful waters, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that captures the sacredness of the occasion. The air, scented with lotus flowers, adds to the mystique of the setting, turning the event into a truly unforgettable experience.
Spanning an impressive 1,980 hectares, Phayao Reservoir is not only a spiritual hub but also a sanctuary for diverse freshwater fish species, making it a popular destination for boat cruises. Wat Tilok Aram, founded in the 15th century, adds to the area’s allure, housing the revered ‘Luang Pho Sila’ Buddha.
The candlelight procession at the reservoir has deep historical significance. When the reservoir was constructed in 1939, it became the setting for these processions, but it was in 1983, during a period of water recession, that a remarkable discovery added new layers of reverence to the tradition. An ancient sandstone Buddha statue, believed to be over 500 years old, emerged from the lake’s depths. Locals affectionately call it ‘Luang Pho Sila’ Buddha.
A pivotal moment in this tradition occurred in 2007 when renovations at Wat Tilok Aram were completed, and the Buddha statue was returned to its original location within the reservoir. That year also saw the first candlelight boat procession at the temple on Asalha Bucha Day, under the full moon of the eighth lunar month. Since then, the procession has been held annually on key Buddhist days, including Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, and Asalha Bucha Days.
The candlelit procession at Phayao Reservoir on Magha Puja Day is a beautiful fusion of tradition and nature. As boats circle Wat Tilok Aram, participants silently pray, their faces illuminated by flickering candles. This sacred moment creates a deep connection—to each other, to the teachings of Buddhism, and to the rich history that Wat Tilok Aram represents. The water below carries the weight of centuries, silently witnessing the devotion of all who participate.
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The soft glow of the candles invites everyone—regardless of faith or background—to reflect on the interconnectedness of humanity. The scene, bathed in the gentle light of the candles, remains etched in the hearts of those who experience it, leaving a lasting memory of this enchanting celebration.
Beyond the candlelit ritual, visitors can soak in the breathtaking sunrise and sunset views that make Phayao Reservoir renowned. Cultural performances and soothing music in the evenings add another layer of charm to the experience, while the opportunity to sample delicious local food makes for an unforgettable sensory journey.
Planning Your Candlelight Procession Experience
The Wian Thian (candlelight procession) takes place on the evening of February 12—Magha Puja Day.
Phayao is located in northern Thailand, around a 2.5-hour drive northeast of Chiang Mai and three hours south of Chiang Rai. The province is home to temples, heritage sites, picturesque countryside, and warm-hearted locals, making it the perfect retreat for those seeking tranquillity and escape.
