Thursday 17 October 2024

The days of the full moon is called Van Sin Ngiae 15 kham, holiday especially for all manual workers and those whose job can disturb by noise. These days we will avoid visiting artisan villages if we want to observe or participate in traditional activities.

On that day, more locals will join the Morning Alms.
Before participating, we recommend to read the Rules to respect for this unique cultural/religious tradition.

In the morning of the Van Sin Ngiae, the search for bonzes is marked by an influx more massive than usual of faithful. The bonzes themselves are more likely to leave the temple which gives the ritual a special intensity, even more in recent years with the influx of Thai visitors at certain times of the year for some Buddhist festivals.

After three months restricted to their temples, learning dharma and practicing meditation, the Buddhist monks once again return to their social duties and are welcomed with offerings of food and gifts. For three months, it was the rainy season, the period of calm in Laos (no wedding, no parties except the religious one).

This is the end of Buddhist Lent, it’s also time for another big celebration, the last boat race that takes place in Xieng Ngeun, 30km from the centre town.