In Pilgrim's Footsteps (B) (32 images)

In Pilgrim's Footsteps
Traditional Full Moon Walk on Ancient Forest Trails to Wat Prahat Doi Suthep (May 7, 2009)

Visakha Bucha is one of the holiest days on the Thai Buddhist calendar --commemorating the birth, passing away and enlightenment of the historical Buddha. Those three events occurred --miraculously-- on the full moon day of sixth lunar month. Throughout Thailand people will head to their local temple to pay respect by circumnavigating the viharn or stupa while...
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In Pilgrim's Footsteps
Traditional Full Moon Walk on Ancient Forest Trails to Wat Prahat Doi Suthep (May 7, 2009)

Visakha Bucha is one of the holiest days on the Thai Buddhist calendar --commemorating the birth, passing away and enlightenment of the historical Buddha. Those three events occurred --miraculously-- on the full moon day of sixth lunar month. Throughout Thailand people will head to their local temple to pay respect by circumnavigating the viharn or stupa while holding lotus flowers, incense and candles.

In Chiang Mai the main focus is on Wat Prahat Doi Suthep. Traditionally pilgrims would walk up the mountain the evening and night before Visakha Bucha. Nowadays almost all people walk on the only paved road towards the Wat.

Before the road was build pilgrims would walk the ancient forest trails on Doi Suthep.

Our group hiked in their footsteps --passing the charming Wat Palaad, one of the many smaller Wats that used to link the mountain trails.
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