Visitors to Thailand can experience a unique Buddhist festival when the Poi Sang Long Ceremony is held in Mae Hong Son province this April.
Taking place from April 4th to 6th 2012, it is a grand and colourful celebration that is entirely unique to this province, seeing young boys aged between seven and 14 ordained as Buddhist novices so they may spend time studying the religion’s doctrines.
Tracing its roots back to the legend of Prince Rahula - the Buddha’s son who gave up his own worldly life to follow his father’s teachings - the event is said to bring spiritual blessings upon both the children and their parents.
On the first day, the children have their heads shaved and are paraded through the streets as part of a lavish procession, stopping at various temples along the way.
The family receive congratulations from well-wishers on day two before another two days of parades are held, culminating in the formal ordination ceremony at the end of the fourth and final day.
While visiting Mae Hong Son for the ceremony, tourists can also appreciate the area’s scenic mountainous landscapes and striking architecture, while witnessing the important role of elephants in local culture.
A diverse selection of Thailand hotels is available for cultural tourists at AsiaRooms.com, including the Belle Villa Resort.
Find out more at https://www.tatnews.org/
