Macaques enjoying the spread during the Monkey Buffet Festival held at Phra Prang Sam Yot temple in Lopburi, Thailand. - Pix courtesy of PEERAPONG PRASUTR (CC BY-SA4.0)
THE WORLD is indeed full of fascinating festivals that celebrate culture and tradition in the most unexpected ways.
Spain's tomato-throwing battle and South Korea's fun-filled mud festival are among the interesting affairs that take place every year. But is there really a festival in Thailand dedicated entirely to monkeys?
Verdict:
TRUE
There is indeed a festival in Thailand dedicated entirely to monkeys.
It's known as the Monkey Buffet Festival, or the Monkey Banquet, held each November at the ancient Phra Prang Sam Yot temple in Lopburi.
Tables are covered in fruits, vegetables and even local desserts – a feast for thousands of macaques residing in the area.
The festival started in the late 1980s by a hotel owner as a way to express gratitude to the local monkeys that bring charm to the town.
The event has become a major attraction for the town, drawing visitors eager to see the unusual spectacle of primates enjoying an elaborate spread.
The macaques are treated to a colourful display of food, carefully arranged to create a visually impressive banquet.
Lopburi has since become synonymous with its monkey population, which roams freely throughout the town.
References:
1. https://www.nationthailand.
