Traditional Festivals of Surin Province

Surin Elephant Festival

The world’s largest elephant show, showcasing ways of life, culture, and the deep bond between people and elephants.

Surin is known as the “City of Elephants,” reflecting the long-standing and close relationship between local communities and elephants throughout history. One of the most significant festivals that clearly showcases this bond is the Surin Elephant Round-up, held annually in November. Visitors can enjoy spectacular elephant performances while learning about the way of life and traditional wisdom of the Kui people, who have raised elephants for generations.

Candle Procession and Almsgiving on Elephant Backs

The Identity of Faith in the City of Elephants, Surin Province

During the Buddhist Lent period, Surin Province hosts one of the most beautiful and unique traditional festivals in Thailand: the Candle Procession and Almsgiving on Elephant Backs. Held annually on the day of Buddhist Lent, this event perfectly blends Surin’s local culture, deep faith in Buddhism, and traditional wisdom in a harmonious and meaningful way.

Wedding Ceremony on Elephant Backs

A Ceremony of Love Along Surin’s Grand Cultural Heritage Path

Surin is not only renowned as the City of Elephants, but also as a center of valuable local traditions. One of the highlights that attracts both Thai and international visitors is the Wedding Ceremony on Elephant Backs, held annually alongside the Candle Procession and Almsgiving on Elephant Backs festivals.

This unique ceremony blends the traditional Kui (Kuay) wedding customs with deep reverence for elephants, the iconic and cherished companions of the Surin people. As a result, the event is rich in color, culture, and profound local significance.

Elephant Monk Ordination Ceremony

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, especially among the Kui (Suay) ethnic group, who have long shared a deep bond with elephants. Held annually in April at Ban Ta Klang, Krapho Subdistrict, Tha Tum District, the festival features a unique ordination procession on elephant backs. This remarkable ceremony beautifully reflects local culture and the profound relationship between humans and elephants.

Phanom Sawai Mountain Festival

Preserving Faith and Experiencing Culture atop Surin’s Sacred Mountain

Beyond elephants and local culture, Surin also hosts an important Buddhist festival known as the Phanom Sawai Mountain Festival. Held annually on the 15th day of the waxing moon of the 5th lunar month, usually in April, the festival brings local people together to make merit, offer alms, and pay homage to sacred sites atop the mountain. The event beautifully reflects the religious beliefs and spiritual way of life of the local community.

Light and Sound Show at Prasat Sikhoraphum

The Enchantment of Khmer Civilization, Reviving an Ancient Monument Through Light and Sound

In the lower Northeastern region of Thailand, Surin Province stands out for its rich and ancient cultural heritage, especially Prasat Sikhoraphum, one of the most complete and beautiful Khmer stone temples in the Northeast. The temple also serves as an important venue for the annual Light and Sound Show, usually held during the province’s tourist season, offering visitors the opportunity to experience both the architectural beauty and historical stories up close.