Asalha Puja & Buddhist Lent in Thailand 2025 — KET

Hello, friends! I’m Matthew John, and for 25 years, I’ve called Thailand my home—a land of warm smiles, rich traditions, and breathtaking beauty. I opened my first school in the northern city of Chiang Rai, and ever since, I’ve been captivated by this country’s deep connection to Buddhism. One of the most meaningful times here is Buddhist Lent, a sacred period that brings communities together in reflection and devotion. If you’re new to Thailand’s traditions, I’m so excited to share the beauty of Buddhist Lent with you. Let’s explore this special time, from its origins to its vibrant celebrations like the Candle Festival, and how you can join in the experience.

What Is Buddhist Lent in Thailand?

Buddhist Lent, known as Vassa or the Rains Retreat, is a three month period where Buddhists in Thailand dedicate themselves to spiritual growth. It begins on the first day of the waning moon in the eighth lunar month, typically in July, and lasts until October, marking the traditional end of the rainy season. This time aligns with the rainy season, a time when the planting season is in full swing, and young plants and crops are growing. Historically, the practice dates back to Lord Buddha, who established the Rains Retreat over 2,500 years ago. Lord Buddha decreed that Buddhist monks should remain in a fixed place during this time to avoid unnecessary travel, which could lead to young seedling damage or accidentally treading on crops.

The Buddha created this tradition after villagers complained that traveling monks were causing crop damage during the wet months. To protect both the land and the monks—some of whom were sick monks due to the harsh weather—Lord Buddha instructed them to stay in permanent dwellings or monasteries for the three month Buddhist Lent. This period, often called Rains Retreat, became a time for monks to focus on their spiritual journey, engaging in meditation and intensive study of the Dhamma.

The Start of Buddhist Lent: Wan Khao Phansa

The day after Asalha Puja, which honors Lord Buddha’s first sermon, is Buddhist Lent Day, or Wan Khao Phansa. It marks the beginning of Vassa, a three month period where monks take a vow to remain in their temples. This monk seclusion ensures they don’t harm crops and allows them to dedicate themselves fully to monastic life. In Thailand, this day is a government holiday, though banks remain open. It’s also a “no alcohol day,” encouraging everyone to focus on spiritual practices.

On Buddhist Lent Day, Buddhists across Thailand visit temples to perform merit making. You’ll see people offering monks food, such as rice and essentials, in a practice called giving alms. This act of merit making is deeply meaningful, believed to bring good karma. Many also light candles, known as Thian Phansa, as part of the Candle Festival, a beautiful tradition where offering candles is thought to brighten one’s future. In places like Ubon Ratchathani Province, the Candle Festival features a stunning Ubon Ratchathani Procession, with massive floats made of intricately carved wax candles.

Life During Buddhist Lent: A Time for Devotion

During the three month Buddhist Lent, monks follow strict rules. They are not permitted to spend nights outside their monasteries, ensuring they remain in a single place. This restriction, part of the monks’ vow, helps them avoid unnecessary travel and focus on more ascetic practices, like meditation and Dhamma study. Monks dedicate this time to deepening their understanding of Buddha’s teachings, often spending seven days or more in quiet reflection.

For laypeople, Buddhist Lent is a time to observe Buddhist Lent more deeply. Many followers spend this period engaging in religious functions, such as conducting religious functions at temples. They might offer monks food, burn joss sticks, or light candles to make merit. Some choose to observe strict precepts, like abstaining from meat or alcohol, as a way to improve their behavior. Laypeople’s resolutions often include commitments to kindness, honesty, and mindfulness, making this a time of personal growth.

The Candle Festival: A Highlight of Buddhist Lent

One of the most beautiful celebrations during Buddhist Lent in Thailand is the Candle Festival. Held during this sacred time, the festival features elaborate candles offered to monks for use during their retreat. These Thian Phansa candles are often massive, intricately carved works of art. In Ubon Ratchathani, the Ubon Ratchathani Procession draws crowds with its stunning floats made of wax candles, paraded through the streets in a vibrant display of devotion. The belief about candle offering is that it brings light to the giver’s future, a symbol of hope and renewal.

The End of Buddhist Lent: Wan Awk Pansa

After three months, Buddhist Lent concludes with Wan Awk Pansa, celebrated on the full moon of the 11th lunar month, typically in October. This day marks the end of the rainy season in Thailand, a time of joy and celebration. Monks who have perfectly observed the Rains Retreat are rewarded with exemptions, allowing them to leave the temple and spread Buddha’s teachings freely. The day includes the Pavarana Ceremony, where monks atone for any wrongdoings, reflecting on their actions during the retreat.

Wan Awk Pansa is also a time for meritorious acts. Buddhists participate in the Thevo food offering event, where they offer monks food to gain good karma. These charitable acts are considered highly meritorious, contributing to spiritual growth. For many in Thailand, this day is a chance to celebrate the traditional end of the rainy season with family, food, and festivities.

Why Buddhist Lent Matters in Thailand

Buddhist Lent is a cornerstone of Buddhism in Thailand, a time when the community comes together to honor Lord Buddha’s teachings. It’s a period of reflection, merit making, and spiritual renewal for both monks and laypeople. Whether you’re joining the Candle Festival in Ubon Ratchathani or simply visiting a local temple to offer monks food, this season offers a window into Thailand’s heart. As someone who has lived here for 25 years, I can tell you there’s nothing quite like the peace and unity of this time—it’s a chance to connect with Thai vocabulary, culture, and the kindness of the people.

How to Join the Buddhist Lent Experience

If you’re in Thailand during Buddhist Lent, I encourage you to visit temples and take part in the traditions. Bring some food to offer monks, light candles, or simply observe the ceremonies. It’s a wonderful way to experience Thailand’s spiritual side and make merit. And if you’re in Ubon Ratchathani, don’t miss the Candle Festival—it’s a sight you’ll never forget!

FAQs About Buddhist Lent in Thailand

What is Lent for Buddhists?
Buddhist Lent, or Vassa, is a three month period where Buddhists focus on spiritual growth. Monks stay in their temples, dedicating time to meditation and study, while laypeople engage in merit making and observe strict precepts to improve their behavior.

What do people do on Buddhist Lent Day?
On Buddhist Lent Day, people visit temples to perform merit making. They offer monks food, light candles, and participate in ceremonies like the Candle Festival. It’s a day to honor Buddha and begin the Rains Retreat.

What are the rules for Lent in Buddhism?
During Buddhist Lent, monks must stay in a fixed place, not spending nights outside their monasteries. They focus on ascetic practices like meditation, while laypeople are encouraged to observe Buddhist Lent by following strict precepts and conducting religious functions.

What month is Buddhist Lent?
Buddhist Lent begins in July, on the first day of the waning moon of the eighth lunar month, and lasts for three months, ending in October with the full moon.

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Final Thoughts

We hope this post has inspired and empowered you on your teaching journey in Thailand! Kids English Thailand is here to support you with tips, insights, and resources to make your experience truly amazing. Want to dive deeper or have questions? Check out our related posts below, or connect with our community of educators making a difference in Thailand. Let’s keep thriving together!

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