Ban Non Salao in Phu Khieo, Chaiyaphum province, is known for its unique tradition of hae nak hot (brutal ordination parade) in which each would-be novice has to stay seated on a severely rocking bamboo stretcher during the 3km-procession to Wat Ta Khaek, a local temple. This rodeo-style test is meant to prove one's determination to become a Buddhist monk. Those who make it to the temple without falling will get to undergo the ordination.
This Sunday, the yearly ritual will take place once again and all are welcome. Ban Non Salao is north of Chaiyaphum downtown and west of Khon Kaen city. It takes about 1.30-hour-drive to get to from both places. However, only the latter can be conveniently reached by air from Bangkok.
For details, call the local office of the Tourism Authority of Thailand on 044-213-030 and 044-213-666 or facebook.com/TATNakhonratchasima.
Pattaya party
If you crave for sun, sand and seafood, it's time to visit Pattaya. The beach resort invites all to its Amazing Pattaya Seafood Festival 2019, which is taking place from tomorrow to Sunday.
At the event, which will be held on the beach of North Pattaya and starts daily from 2pm until 9pm, there will be music performances and over 150 stalls and food trucks selling various seafood dishes. For those who prefer fine-dining, every evening there is also a five-course sunset gala dinner with free-flow wine to enjoy. Unlike the open food fair, seats at the exclusive gala dinner, beginning at 6.45pm, are limited to 60 each night. It costs 3,000 baht per head. For reservations, call 087-053-4335.
For more information about the Amazing Pattaya Seafood Festival, check out its page on Facebook.
If you have news or events to share, email pongpetm@bangkokpost.co.th.
