Elephant Ordination Festival, Surin Province
An Ordination Procession on Elephant Backs
The Only One in the World, Reflecting the Roots of Kui Culture
The Elephant Ordination Festival is one of the most important traditions of the people of Surin Province, especially among the Kui (Suay) ethnic group, who have shared a long-standing bond with elephants. The festival is held annually in April at Ban Ta Klang, Krapho Subdistrict, Tha Tum District, Surin Province.
A Ceremony Blending Buddhist Teachings and Elephant Culture
Elephant ordination is not merely an ordinary ordination ceremony; it involves a grand procession in which the ordinands are carried atop elephants, regarded as important and sacred animals in the lives of the Kui people. The procession moves magnificently through villages and along the Mun River, reflecting deep unity within the community and profound respect for long-standing traditions and customs.
A One-of-a-Kind Tradition in the World
Surin’s Elephant Ordination Ceremony is a tradition found nowhere else in the world. It has attracted attention from both domestic and international media, and visitors who attend are deeply impressed by the beauty of the culture, the strong sense of faith, and the remarkable bond between people and elephants—something truly rare to find elsewhere.
Tips for Visitors
- It is advisable to bring a hat or umbrella, as the event takes place outdoors.
- The ceremony is free to attend and suitable for visitors of all ages.
- Visitors can also stop by Ban Ta Klang Elephant Village, home to the Elephant Study Center, to learn more about the lives of mahouts and Thai elephants up close.
The Elephant Ordination Festival represents a profound blend of religion, tradition, and the shared way of life between people and elephants. It is a truly valuable and deeply cherished cultural event of the people of Surin Province.
Blog
ภัทรธร เรืองแสงจันทร์
ภัทรธร เรืองแสงจันทร์
ภัทรธร เรืองแสงจันทร์
MakeWebEasy