The Phuket Vegetarian Festival – Observing one of the most unique festivals in the World

Considered one of the more “extreme” festivals to be found in Thailand, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival also referred to as the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, is a truly unique event to be held in the 2nd-3rd weeks of October on the 9th Lunar month. Its participants practice abstinence and various forms of self-mortification as a way to act as mediums for the gods, and visitors will be able to witness the piercings, firewalking, and other activities on display.

While its absurdity is undeniable, the festival unfolds as a vibrant and fantastic experience, with each passing year bringing more elaborate processions and increasingly spectacular acts. Visitors to this festival are encouraged to stay at local Karon beach hotels to get a chance to witness the spectacle as well as get to stay alongside partners such as Jono X Phuket Karon.