At the end of July, Buddhists across Thailand and worldwide observe two of the most important holy days: Asalha Bucha Day and Buddhist Lent (Khao Phansa). This guide covers their meaning, the schedule at Wat Phra Dhammakaya, and how to join both on-site and online.
Asalha Bucha Day (full moon of the 8th lunar month, around July)
Asalha Bucha commemorates the Buddha’s first sermon, the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, delivered to the five ascetics at the Deer Park of Isipatana, Varanasi. This moment completed the Triple Gem: the Buddha, the Dhamma, and the Sangha.
Ceremonies at Wat Phra Dhammakaya on Asalha Bucha
- Offering of rain retreat cloth (pha samati / pha arb nam fon)
- Offering of lamps and lanterns (Pratheep)
- Veneration of the Lord Buddha’s relics
- Meditation and Dhamma talks
Buddhist Lent — Khao Phansa (the day after Asalha Bucha)
Khao Phansa marks the beginning of the three-month Rains Retreat (Vassa) when monks remain staying in one place to study and observe the Vinaya. For lay people, this is an ideal time to support the Sangha and intensify their own practice.
What to offer during the Lent season
- Rain retreat cloth and towels
- Fund for temple lighting
- Support the mass ordination program
- Offer breakfast alms (Tak Bat)
How to join — On-site and Online
- On-site: Wat Phra Dhammakaya, Khlong Sam, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani 12120
- Online: Join via Line OA “@dhammakaya” or watch live broadcasts on the temple’s Facebook page and DMC channel.
Lent in daily life
Even for lay people, the Rains Retreat is a season of intensifying virtue—keeping precepts, limiting bad habits, and meditating more. See all celebrations in the Dhammakaya Merit Calendar and explore Visakha Bucha Day.
