According to U Soe Hla, chairman of the pagoda board of trustees, there were over 5,000 pilgrims at the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda in Kyaikto Township of Mon State during the Tazaungdine Festival.
In 2023, from the 13th waxing to the full moon day of Tazaungmone, more than 5,000 pilgrims from home and abroad visited the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda.
“There were above 1,300 pilgrims on the eve of the full moon day and over on the full moon day. Some booked solo, and some booked as a group. They are also coming today. There are more visitors this year than last year,” said U Soe Hla.
The duration of the Buddha Pujaniya Festival of the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda is from the Thadingyut Full Moon Day to the Kasone Full Moon Day. The pagoda board of trustees reportedly manages food and shelter for pilgrims, and the security forces also ensure the safety of the visitors. — ASH/TRKM
