The end of the three-month Vassa retreat. In Nakhon Phanom, Thailand, illuminated fire boats (heua fai) made of banana stems with thousands of candles are launched onto the Mekong River. In Luang Prabang, Laos, floating offerings are sent downstream. The boats carry away bad luck and honor the Naga serpent beneath the river. Monks are free to travel again.
Southeast Asian · October 13