PHETCHABUN — Crowds gathered on Sunday for the Um Phra Dam Nam festival, a centuries‑old tradition that sees the revered Buddha image Phra Buddha Maha Thammaracha carried into the waters of the Pa Sak River.
The ritual, held annually at Wang Makham Faeb in front of Wat Bot Chana Man, is considered a spiritual cornerstone of Phetchabun province. Locals believe the ceremony brings timely rainfall, fertile soil and protection from disease, while neglecting it could invite drought and hardship.
According to legend, the tradition began more than 400 years ago when fishermen saw the Buddha image emerge from the river, repeatedly submerging and resurfacing. The following year, the statue disappeared, only to be rediscovered at the same spot. Since then, rulers and residents have upheld the ritual, carrying the image into the river each year on the waning 15th day of the 10th lunar month.
For generations, Um Phra Dam Nam has symbolised the bond between the community and its sacred image, blending Buddhist faith with local beliefs in prosperity and protection. Today, it remains one of Phetchabun’s most distinctive cultural traditions, drawing residents and visitors alike to witness the merging of legend, devotion and heritage.
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