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Almsgiving in Chiang Mai

Monks and novices will leave their Wat (temple) in the early morning, typically between 5.30 and 8 a.m., and walk barefoot along the street to collect alms from the locals. The monks are frequently given fresh food, packaged food, beverages, flowers, toiletries, candles, and incense sticks, which they then share when they return to the Wat. In accordance with their Buddhist rite, they will consume the fresh food that morning; for some monks, it may be their only meal of the day. Laypeople can respect and establish a connection with the monks through this holy ritual.

 The oldest monk always walks in advance of the others, while some go alone, in pairs, or in groups. We put our objects out to waist height and allowed them to pause in order to demonstrate your desire to give them charity. Before you approach the monks, it is crucial that you remove your shoes. We knelt on the floor with our heads down after placing our belongings in the bowl (ladies must take care not to touch the monks). We placed the palms of our hands together in a gesture known as wai, which is used to greet and express respect in Thai culture. It resembles prayer. The monks then chanted a short blessing before moving on.