CHIANG MAI — 15 April 2026, Songkran celebrations at Wat Pa Saen Thammararam, also known as “Wat Chang”, in Mae Taeng district drew large crowds on Tuesday, featuring a distinctive parade of Buddha images carried on elephants.
The temple organised a grand Lanna-style ceremony by placing Buddha statues and revered forest monks’ images on elephant backs and parading them around the temple grounds, allowing devotees to perform ritual water pouring and seek blessings for the traditional New Year.
Monks and novices rode atop the elephants, holding Buddha images and portraits of respected forest masters, including Luang Pu Mun Bhuridatto, Phra Phutthaphotwaraphon (Luang Pu Chan Kusalo) and Phra Ratchawachirakosol (Luang Pu Kuang Kosalo). They were joined by large numbers of local residents and devotees in a coordinated procession.
Along the route, traditional drums, dances and cultural performances by ethnic groups added colour and vibrancy to the festivities. Participants also poured water over Buddha images and paid respects to monks and novices to mark the Thai New Year.
A highlight of the event saw elephants take part in the water-blessing ritual, using their trunks to spray water over participants, drawing laughter and delight from visitors and locals alike. Many said the spectacle reflected the close bond between people and elephants, a unique identity of the temple.
In addition, Phra Khru Od of Wat Chedi Luang organised a special feast for the elephants, offering fruit such as bananas, sugarcane, watermelon and pineapple, creating a joyful atmosphere.
Locals said the event not only preserves Lanna Songkran traditions but also helps sustain the long-standing relationship between the community and elephants, which have been an integral part of Mae Taeng district for generations.
