Nakhon Ratchasima: Korat residents have come together to celebrate the Thai New Year by engaging in traditional merit-making activities, including offering alms to monks, pouring water on Buddha images, and paying homage to Ya Mo for good fortune.
According to Thai News Agency, the festivities began this morning with Mr. Chaiwat Chuenkosum, Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima Province, leading more than 500 participants, including heads of government agencies and local administrative organizations, in merit-making activities. A total of 50 monks received alms as part of the celebrations for the Songkran Festival 2025.
Many attendees also participated in the ritual of pouring water on the revered Buddha statue, Phra Khanthararat, an ancient religious symbol of Nakhon Ratchasima Province. This act is believed to bring blessings and good fortune for the New Year.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand, Nakhon Ratchasima Office, highlighted that Nakhon Ratchasima is one of the 12 notable cities to visit during the Songkran Festival. The city offers a variety of activities, including a Holy Water Tunnel and opportunities to bathe the province's ancient Buddha images, which are expected to delight both locals and tourists. It is anticipated that over 100,000 tourists will visit the province during the festival, generating income exceeding 50 million baht.
The highlight of the day's events will be the procession of Phra Khanthararat back to Wat Phra Narai Maharat Worawihan, following its journey from the temple to the Thao Suranari Monument. The procession is part of the Maha Songkran Korat festival, organized by the Ministry of Culture's Department of Cultural Promotion, and takes place from April 12-15 at the Thao Suranari Monument. Along the procession route, people are expected to gather to pay homage, continuing a cherished tradition.
