6 Major Festivals Boost Faith-Based Tourism Attracting Visitors Worldwide

July 10, 2025 – Asalaha Bucha & July 11, 2025 – Buddhist Lent

Religion: Buddhism

Significance: Commemorates the day Buddha first taught dhamma and marks the start of monks' rainy season retreat

Activities: Candlelight processions, listening to sermons, making merit, offering Lent candles, abstaining from alcohol during Lent

July 11, 2025 – Ashura Festival

Religion: Islam

Significance: Remembers the sacrifice of Imam Husayn, grandson of Prophet Muhammad

Activities: Prayer, fasting, communal feasts

September 22 – October 2, 2025 – Navaratri

Religion: Hinduism/Brahmanism

Significance: Worship of the three goddesses Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati

Activities: Goddess processions, devotional dances, rituals performed over nine nights

October 7, 2025 – End of Buddhist Lent

Religion: Buddhism

Significance: Marks the conclusion of the monks' rainy season retreat

Activities: Offering alms (Tak Bat Thewo), the royal boat procession (Loy Ruea Fai), making merit

October 20, 2025 – Diwali

Religion: Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism

Significance: Festival of lights celebrating the victory of good over evil

Activities: Lighting lamps, decorating homes, prayers, distributing sweets

December 25, 2025 – Christmas

Religion: Christianity

Significance: Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ

Activities: Decorating Christmas trees, gift-giving, choir singing

For additional information: Office of the Prime Minister's Spokesperson

Link: www.thaigov.go.th