The Chiang Mai City Pillar Inthakin Festival, also known as "Sao Inthakin" or "Buddhist Lent Candle Procession," is an annual religious and cultural event held in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It is a significant festival that honors the city's guardian spirits and seeks blessings for the well-being and prosperity of the community.
The festival revolves around the City Pillar Shrine, which is believed to house the guardian spirits and protect the city. The shrine is located in Wat Chedi Luang, one of the prominent Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai. The festival usually takes place in May or June and lasts for several days.
During the Chiang Mai City Pillar Inthakin Festival, the main highlight is the candle procession, where thousands of people carrying lit candles parade through the streets of Chiang Mai, starting from Wat Chedi Luang. The participants, dressed in traditional Thai attire, walk in a slow and solemn manner, paying respects to the guardian spirits and offering prayers for blessings and protection.
Leading up to the procession, the festival also features various religious rituals and ceremonies held within Wat Chedi Luang. Monks and devotees come together to chant prayers, make offerings, and perform merit-making activities. The temple complex is beautifully adorned with colorful decorations and illuminated with lanterns and candles.
The festival also incorporates cultural and entertainment aspects, including traditional dance performances, music, and food stalls where visitors can sample local delicacies. It is a time for the community to come together, express their devotion, and celebrate their cultural heritage.
The Chiang Mai City Pillar Inthakin Festival is deeply rooted in Thai Buddhism and offers a unique insight into the religious traditions and local customs of the Chiang Mai region. It is a vibrant and spiritually significant event that attracts both locals and tourists, providing a memorable experience of Thai culture and devotion.
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