People gathered along the banks of Samrong Canal in Thailand’s Samut Prakan province on October 25 to take part in the annual Rap Bua Festival, a Buddhist tradition in which devotees offer lotus flowers to the Buddha as a boat carrying a sacred image passes by.

The main ceremony took place in Bang Phli district, where a boat carrying a replica of the Luang Pho To Buddha image travelled along the canal. Residents and tourists lined both banks, throwing lotus flowers towards the image as part of the religious observance.

According to The Nation Thailand, the festival is a long-standing local tradition that reflects the cultural identity and Buddhist heritage of Bang Phli. The annual event also draws visitors to the province, helping promote local tourism and preserve customs passed down through generations.

The festival runs from October 19 to 27, bringing together local communities and visitors through religious ceremonies and cultural activities. For many residents, Rap Bua is more than a tourist attraction; it is a tradition closely tied to community life and religious faith.

The lotus-flower offering is the festival’s defining feature, with devotees gathering by the water to pay their respects as the Buddha image passes. The event continues to serve as a public expression of faith while showcasing Thailand’s living cultural traditions to a wider audience.

BOB Post