Temple Fair

This evening, we braved the crowds at Wat Saket to attend the annual temple fair. The event runs for nine days in November, culminating on the 24th, when the full moon ascends above the city.

At the entrance, smoke billowed from the charcoal grills of the Jiraphan halal stall, and a queue formed for their famous chicken. Inside the grounds, other vendors hawked everything from noodle soup and deep fried bugs to sneakers and pink shirts.

The fair also included typical attractions, including rides and games, but many visitors came primarily to place offerings in front of the Buddha images housed at the Golden Mount.

We gingerly followed the crowd up the 300-some stairs. The walk was accompanied by the constant clanging of heavy bells and a microphoned voice blaring the attributes of making merit. Signs pointing towards the top of the chedi read, "the way to Heaven."

The Mount was wrapped in a red cloth and illuminated by floodlights. We didn't get to the very top of the structure, but were high enough to take in panoramic views of Bangkok at night, spotting the Grand Palace and Ratchadamnoen Avenue in the distance. The way down was somewhat quieter, and a nice breeze danced in the air.

Despite the crowd, it was interesting to experience the vibe of the fair. It's still feels very local and there's something nostalgic about it, as such events don't seem to be a major part of most people's lives anymore. At least not in Bangkok.