CHIANG RAI – Cultural tourism in Chiang Rai has been lively, with locals and visitors, both Thai and international, turning out in large numbers for the region’s unique Tak Bat Dok Mai (flower alms offering). The ceremony took place at Hat Nakhon Chiang Rai Public Park, the main venue for the 22nd Chiang Rai Flower Festival, set against a calm, faith-filled Buddhist atmosphere.
The event brought together senior provincial and city leaders, including Prasert Jitpluecheep, Deputy Governor of Chiang Rai, and Wanchai Chongsuththanamanee, Mayor of Chiang Rai Municipality. They were joined by the municipal executive team, Rattana Chongsuththanamanee (a municipal adviser and one of the founders of the festival), along with government representatives and members of the public, all taking part side by side.
For the alms round, seven senior monks were invited, led by Phra Ratchawachirakhani (Prasert Panyawachiro), the Provincial Chief Monk of Chiang Rai. In total, 94 monks and novices received offerings, as participants lined up with flowers in a scene marked by strong devotion.
A key highlight was the procession of nine historic Buddha images, placed on royal carts representing nine provinces in Thailand’s upper North. The moving display allowed people to offer flowers as an act of Buddhist worship.
Each cart had its own look and fine detail, created by Chiang Rai artists. The set took nine years to complete and is brought out for public reverence only twice a year, once for the flower alms ceremony and once for New Year alms giving.
Chiang Rai’s flower alms tradition has been held every year since 2016. It began from an idea shared by Phra Thammarachananuwat, former Chief Monk of Region 6, and Mayor Wanchai Chongsuththanamanee.
The aim has been to keep Buddhism close to the community in everyday life, with Chiang Rai Municipality continuing its long-term support for religious and cultural activities.
The practice also links back to stories from the Buddha’s time. One well-known tale tells of Sumanamalakara, a man who offered flowers to the Buddha with deep faith and received great merit in return. Chiang Rai has carried that spirit forward as a local tradition that leaves a strong impression on worshippers and tourists alike.
