Candle Procession and Almsgiving on Elephant Backs
The Identity of Faith in the City of Elephants, Surin Province
During the Buddhist Lent season, Surin Province hosts one of the most beautiful and distinctive traditional festivals in Thailand.
The Candle Procession and Almsgiving on Elephant Backs. Held annually on the day marking the beginning of Buddhist Lent, this tradition represents a harmonious blend of Surin’s local culture, deep Buddhist faith, and indigenous wisdom.
Cultural Significance
It demonstrates the deep faith of the people of Surin in Buddhism, helps preserve the wisdom of the Kui people, who gracefully incorporate elephants into religious rituals, and promotes tourism while generating income for local communities.
Meaning and Origin
This tradition has its roots in two important elements.
The Candle Procession Tradition
This involves offering candles to Buddhist monks for use during the Buddhist Lent period, a long-standing practice that has been passed down through generations in Buddhism.
Almsgiving on Elephant Backs
It is a distinctive tradition of the Kui (Kuay) people of Surin, who share a deep bond with elephants in every aspect of life. Even in religious merit-making, elephants are revered and used as sacred companions in the rituals.
Highlights
Candle Processions and Elephant Parades
Beginning in the evening of July 9 each year, the event features an elaborate candle procession beautifully decorated by 12 temple communities within Surin Municipality. The procession is accompanied by a large number of elephants joining the parade, creating a spectacular and memorable nighttime procession.
Almsgiving on Elephant Backs
On the following morning, dozens of monks and novice monks ride atop elephants (approximately 37–70 elephants). Buddhist devotees stand around to offer rice and dry food, placing alms into the monks’ bowls held by the monks seated on the elephants. This extraordinary sight amazes both Thai people and international visitors, beautifully blending deep faith with a profound sense of auspiciousness.
A Unique Experience Found Nowhere Else
The only one of its kind in the world — the only place where almsgiving on elephant backs truly takes place. This tradition reflects the deep bond between elephants and religious faith in Thailand, especially in Surin Province, where the Kui people have preserved the tradition of elephant care for generations.
This activity is not only a religious ceremony, but also helps promote the image of Surin as the “City of Elephants” and plays a vital role in Thailand’s cultural tourism.
The Candle Procession and Almsgiving on Elephant Backs in Surin Province is not only a beautiful tradition, but also a powerful symbol of belief, faith, and pride that the people of Surin are eager to share with the world. If you have the opportunity during the Buddhist Lent season, do not miss the chance to visit and become part of this truly meaningful and inspiring cultural experience.
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ภัทรธร เรืองแสงจันทร์
ภัทรธร เรืองแสงจันทร์
ภัทรธร เรืองแสงจันทร์
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