Live from the Holy Site - Makha Puja Festival of Sri Prachin: A Path of Faith

The Prachin Buri Cultural Office, together with Prachin Buri Province, held a press conference for the 40th Makha Puja Festival of Sri Prachin for the year 2026. Participants included Phra Wachiradhibodi, the provincial Buddhist chief, Veraphan Dee-on, the provincial governor, and Sumitra Charoensilp, the provincial cultural director, at the historic Sra Morakot Temple in Sri Mahosot District. Veraphan stated that the Makha Puja Festival is an important tradition spanning 40 years, clearly reflecting the historical roots, religious heritage, and ancient city identity of Prachin Buri. The dual Buddha footprints located at Sra Morakot are considered the oldest and largest in Thailand, discovered by the Fine Arts Department in 1986 and believed to have been created during the Dvaravati to Lopburi periods (11th-16th Buddhist centuries). The 40th festival in 2026 aims to preserve Buddhist traditions and promote provincial tourism. Highlights include a candlelight procession around the ancient Buddha footprints and a light and sound show. The event will feature a dharma walk following the path of the Buddhist teacher through seven districts, cultural performances, and a traditional Thai costume fashion show. Local police will provide comprehensive safety measures, ensuring smooth traffic management and 24-hour assistance for visitors.