The vibrant Deepavali Festival is an important event for Hindus around the world. Just as in Hindu communities the world over, the Hindus of Malaysia celebrate this occasion with great joy and festivity. Deepavali is the Festival of Light, a celebration of the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Accordingly at this joyous occasion a multitude of oil lamps are lit to dispel evil and darkness. The event falls on the final day of the final month of the traditional lunar based calendar. The origins of the festival are steeped in myth and legend and several explanations are given for the event. In Malaysia most Hindus consider the festival to commemorate the slaying of the demon Narakasura by the might of Lord …

The vibrant little nation of Bhutan boasts an intriguing culture punctuated by Buddhist spirituality that lends it a charm all its own. Of particular note is the annual “Tschechu”, which is a religious festival that translates to “tenth day”, and is hosted by the various religious institutions of the country. The best way to experience the excitement of a tshechu is from a Bhutan hotel such as the splendid Uma Bhutan. Tschechus are celebrated in a variety of ways that differ from city to city, and an ideal way to experience all of it is via a series of Bhutan tour packages that the hotel can easily help organize for you. Held to celebrate the birthday of the renowned Guru Padmasambhava, tshechus occur on the …

Trang – a beautiful southern province of Thailand – is a world in its own to discover and there’s always lots to do, such as going to the late-night coffee shops or visiting the wet markets. However, the greatest delights are the multitude of festivals that keep taking place throughout the year that unfurl in joyful celebrations of colour and merriment. The amazing traditional fairs and festivals are definitely phenomena to be witnessed and enjoyed. Full of life and constructed upon strong beliefs, these celebrations fulfill all religious duties in the most entertaining way. Some festivals are not even done for religious purposes; instead, celebrations are carried out for the sake of something worth celebrating. The Cake Festival, for instance, is where a huge variety …

The vegetarian festival in Thailand held in the month of October is an event of spirituality together with astounding religious acts that are carried out as devotions to the gods for obtaining blessings. The festival which has its origin from the Chinese immigrants who visited Thailand some time back, has today developed into a fully fledged ceremony with street shows of people in trances as well as religious rituals performed in the temples, in exclusive culinary preparations and people observing certain precepts in view of the event. Spanning over a nine day period in the ninth month of the Chinese calendar, the festival is the result of the belief that the Chinese immigrants who fell ill with Malaria, recovered due to a religious ritual they …

Part of what makes Bangkok such a fascinating city is the fact that you can find sprawling modern development side by side with cultural attractions steeped in religious traditions. The Erawan Shrine in Bangkok is one such example and is definitely worth seeing when in the Thai capital. If you are looking for a unique way to see the sights of the city then Bangkok cruises such as those offered by Anantara Cruises Thailand are just what you are looking for. This Bangkok cruise tour takes you along the Chao Phraya River and past some of the most famous landmarks of the capital. Make sure to also plan a visit to the Erawan Shrine which can be found in the Pathum Wan district and which features a statute of …

One of the best ways to soak up local culture is to experience cultural festivals in a country. Thus when heading to Thailand try plan your trip to coincide with the celebration of Loi Krathong, a charming festival that takes place throughout the country. Those heading to Hua Hin during the festival and looking for Hua Hin hotels by the sea can consider Anantara Hua Hin Thailand Resort. This luxurious hotel Hua Hin has to offer also features the very best in contemporary comforts, making your stay all the more memorable. Also known as the ‘Festival of Light’, Loi Krathong takes place on the twelfth lunar month when the moon is at its fullest. This generally falls in November and on this particular day one can see throngs of …