Songkran in Pattaya, the gentler side

PATTAYA:--Songkran officially ends in Pattaya when the sun sets on April 19, but leading up to the finale, the streets turn to water war zones and traffic descends into gridlock.

 

There is, however, a gentler side to Songkran that takes place in the middle of all the water throwing madness.

 

It began on April 13, the beginning of the official Thai New Year, with traditional reverence as people made their way to temples for meditation and merit-making and watched as the Sanctuary of Truth’s annual relics parade wound its way through the city.

 

The nine relics came from the Busabok Stupa, which stands in the Sanctuary of Truth’s central hall. Taken once a year from the high perch where they were placed in April 2009 by the late Supreme Patriarch, they are put on flower-laden floats every April 13 and carried to six stops in Banglamung District.

 

The procession began at 7 a.m., stopping at Chonglom Temple, Nong Ket Yai Temple, the Pattaya Floating Market, Walking Street, the Beach-Central roads intersection, and Crystal Palace Hotel, before heading back to the Naklua sanctuary.

 

At each stop people – many dressed in traditional Thai clothing – were given the chance to pour holy water on the relics and make donations.

Read more: https://www.pattayamail.com/featured/songkran-in-pattaya-the-gentler-side-252638

-- PATTAYA MAIL 2019-04-19--

 

Nice photo of some of the old relics.

4 hours ago, champers said:

Nice photo of some of the old relics.

You too will become the subject of your own words. 

11 minutes ago, Benmart said:

You too will become the subject of your own words. 

Too true. Not long now. ????

33 minutes ago, champers said:

Too true. Not long now. ????

“Rage rage against the darkness, do not go gently into that good night.” lol lol

14 hours ago, champers said:

Nice photo of some of the old relics.

Like minds travel in the same gutter! 555

I agree with Champers...I can't spot all nine relics but I can see two at the front and possibly one at the far rear.

Looks like a pleasant peaceful day indoors away from the water wars.

Yes. We tend to forget that there actually is a reason for Songkhran and celebrated in a lot gentler manner than the 'Pattaya Party'.