What Is the Candle Festival in Thailand?

The candle festival in Thailand is a famous annual gathering held in Ubon Ratchathani during July. The festival celebrates the beginning of Buddhist Lent, also known as ‘Khao Phansa.’ The dates change annually based on the Lunar calendar, so be sure to check the festival dates for the year you plan to visit. 

The city of Ubon Ratchathani may be famous for the candle festival, but there is so much more to see. Ubon is the heart of Thailand’s east and has many sights both in town and in the surrounding countryside. 

The most convenient way to see everything is by choosing to rent a car in Ubon Ratchathani. Drive Car Rental has a convenient location at Ubon’s international airport–just fly in and drive away to start your adventure in the east of Thailand!

Learn the History

Khao Phansa (Buddhist lent) coincides with the beginning of the heavy rains throughout much of Thailand. Traditionally, Buddhist monks are prohibited from leaving the temple during the following ninety days. They may still go out and collect morning alms (donations), but they are discouraged from travelling. 

The tradition dates back centuries and is rooted in practicality. Monsoon rains often brought floods and still do. Though modern water management has greatly reduced the danger posed, in times past, it was genuinely hazardous to travel during the rainy season. Roads simply became impassable, and people could be easily swept away during a flash flood. 

During these months, monks are expected to spend additional time on meditation, prayers, and spiritual practice. Part of this practice is reading from ancient Sanskrit manuscripts written on palm fronds. During the dark and cloudy days, this became difficult, so locals began bringing candles to the temple to gain merit and help the monks see their reading material. 

Over the last 150 years, as electric lighting became common, darkness was no longer a problem–but the vibrant festival remained. Thais all over the country visit temples during this time, and a wide array of local festivals and cultural exhibitions are often centred around neighbourhood temples in every city. 

Visit the Temples

The primary temple for Ubon Ratchathani during the candle festival is Wat Phra That Nong Bua. This towering temple is a replica of the Mahabodhi temple in India where the Buddha is said to have gained enlightenment. Throughout the festival, visitors can see traditional Thai dances, celebrations, and merit-making. 

Be sure and take note of how everyone dresses. Everyone will be decked out in their finest traditional Thai clothing that is both colourful and unique! Each temple will have its own unique flair, so be sure to visit several. 

See the Wax Sculptures and Watch the Parade

The parade is often held on the final day of the festival, beginning in the early morning before the weather heats up. During the parade, several large wax sculptures will be carried through the city. Between the parade floats, traditional Thai dances and music performances will be on full display. 

Don’t worry if you can’t make it to the morning parade–the floats will be displayed around town and near Thung Si Muang Park before and after the parade. This celebration is an all-day affair with performances all over town, and there will be plenty of things to do at night in Ubon Ratchathani!

Many tourists wonder about what happens to the gigantic wax sculptures after the parade. They will be melted down and used to make candles to be sold at markets or saved until the following year to be reformed and carved into new and stunning displays!

Book Early and Save

When it comes to where to stay in Ubon Ratchathani, hotels across the city are often fully booked weeks in advance of the festival, so plan accordingly. If booked far enough in advance, rooms can often be found at discounted rates. 

Drive Car Rental also offers early booking discounts and lower rates on long-term rentals for expats and business travellers. Choose from a wide variety of vehicles, from sedans and luxury SUVs to modern electric cars. 

Browse our full selection today and see how Drive Car Rental can help you make the most of Ubon Ratchathani!