Bamboo and gunpowder at Thai rocket festival

British travellers are advised to pack a helmet for the literally explosive Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival.

By Southall Travel -Wednesday, April 20, 2011 04:44 PM

Bamboo and gunpowder at Thai rocket festival

Visitors catching flights to Thailand are encouraged not to miss next month's Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival for an explosive insight into the local culture.

Villagers in Yasothon's Phaya Thaen Park gather on May 11th to set off rockets in order to lure the rain god Vassakan into blessing them with wet weather.

The upcoming rice-planting season is crucial for many local farmers and it is believed that these rockets help to "stimulate" the rainclouds.

During recent years, the traditional festival has developed into something of a sporting competition, with some teams trying to send their rocket the highest into the sky, while others aim to produce the best flight/landing combination.

The explosives, which are made out of bamboo and gunpowder, may not pass muster with the average health and safety inspector, but the sound and spectacle created is truly memorable.

Other reasons to visit Yasothon during the four-day Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival include beauty pageants and traditional Thai feasting.

Written by Alex Cochrane ADNFCR-1809-ID-800508127-ADNFCR

Create Your Own Travel Plan

Depart From

Destination

Airport [A-Z]

Trip Type
- Return
- One Way

Depart Date

Return Date

Direct Flights Only
Flexible Date (+/- 3 days)

Cabin

Adults
Children
Infant

[Age 12+]
[2–11]
[0–2]

Airline

World Travel News Archives

Southall Travel on Facebook - Become a Fan!

Our Team of Experts is eager to assist you with your holiday planning and bookings.
Call us for best fares on flights from UK.
All prices inclusive of pre payable taxes and charges.
Subject to Availability.