Commemorating Buddha’s Teachings
Southeast & South Asia | 24 Feb 2024

Makha Bucha Day is marked on the full moon day of the third lunar month in Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. This festival honours the original teachings of the Buddha, imparted to over 1,250 monks. 

On this day, Buddhists make merit in the belief that it will enhance their spiritual journey within the cycle of existence or Samsara. Devotees join candle-lit processions encircling local temples, offer alms and participate in religious chanting and meditation. The five precepts of Buddhism are to abstain from killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, and intoxicants. The last precept is the reason why no alcohol is sold on this day in many Buddhist countries.