As the seasonal monsoon rains descend over the kingdom, it marks the beginning of the Buddhist "rain retreat" and the Buddhist Lent, or "Phansa", during which all Buddhist monks retreat to the temples. The Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival, the most elaborate of the traditional parading of candles to wats is held in Ubon Ratchathani, Isan, Thailand, around the days of Asanha Puja (which commemorates the Buddha's first sermon) and Wan Kao Pansa (which marks the beginning of...
more »

As the seasonal monsoon rains descend over the kingdom, it marks the beginning of the Buddhist "rain retreat" and the Buddhist Lent, or "Phansa", during which all Buddhist monks retreat to the temples. The Ubon Ratchathani Candle Festival, the most elaborate of the traditional parading of candles to wats is held in Ubon Ratchathani, Isan, Thailand, around the days of Asanha Puja (which commemorates the Buddha's first sermon) and Wan Kao Pansa (which marks the beginning of vassa). The candles are carved a couple of days before the procession. The ceremony is held at Thung Si Muang and Chaturamuk Pavillion. ..The procession takes place on the morning of Wan Kao Pansa. The candles are paraded through the city centre on floats, accompanied by representatives of the respective institutions. These are normally dancers or musicians in traditional dress.
« less

Copyright Copyright © 2004 Jeff Henig All Rights Reserved