Coming of Age

A tradition honoured by the many ethnic Shan people living in Thailand, every year from late March to mid-April, young boys will spend time as novices in temples studying and learning the ways of Buddha. During Poy Sang Long, literally translated to "ordaining the beloved sons," Shan boys participate in a three-day ritual filled with merit and merrymaking to mark this auspicious time. Traditions including being dressed as princes, as Guatama Buddha once was, and being carried into the temple borne upon the shoulders of attending male family members. This colourful affair is celebrated by Shan communities throughout northern and western Thailand, most prominently in Chiang Mai at Wat Ku Tao and Wat Pa Pao.

Source: tourismthailand.org