When and where
Next edition: The date for next year is not confirmed yet; the festival is usually held in March / April.
When: Late March to early April (several days)
Rule: Lunar calendar. Variable: 2026 was 31 March-3 April at Wat Chong Kham; 2027 not yet known.
Dates can change. Check the current date shortly before your trip with the local organisers or the tourist office.
About Poy Sang Long (Shan novice ordination)
Poy Sang Long is the ordination festival of the Tai Yai (Shan) in Mae Hong Son. Boys aged seven to fourteen are made up and dressed as princes, carried on relatives' shoulders and then ordained as novices. A colourful parade with music and dance passes through the streets. It is one of the best chances to see Shan culture, and visitors are welcome as long as they stay respectful.
Getting there
Mae Hong Son is reached by a short flight from Chiang Mai or by bus (about 6-7 hours).
Highlights
- Princes on shoulders Boys in rich dress are carried on relatives’ shoulders.
- Parade with music Dance, gongs and drums accompany the procession.
- Ordination The boys are shaved and ordained as novices.
Tips for Poy Sang Long (Shan novice ordination)
- Always ask permission before photographing boys and families.
- Dress neatly.
- Book hotels in Mae Hong Son well ahead.
Poy Sang Long (Shan novice ordination) on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
The map shows Wat Chong Kham by the lake in Mae Hong Son town.
Frequently asked questions about Poy Sang Long (Shan novice ordination)
When is Poy Sang Long (Shan novice ordination) in 2026?
Poy Sang Long falls in 2026 on 31 March – 3 April, at Wat Chong Kham, Mae Hong Son. Rule: Late March to early April (several days). An official or clearly documented source confirms this date.
Where is the best place to see Poy Sang Long (Shan novice ordination)?
Watch it best at Wat Chong Kham, Mae Hong Son. Boys in rich dress are carried on relatives’ shoulders. Mae Hong Son is reached by a short flight from Chiang Mai or by bus (about 6-7 hours). Dance, gongs and drums accompany the procession. Highlight: Ordination – The boys are shaved and ordained as novices.
Is Poy Sang Long (Shan novice ordination) free to attend?
Yes, watching is free. The venue is Wat Chong Kham, Mae Hong Son. Always ask permission before photographing boys and families. Dress neatly. Highlight: Princes on shoulders – Boys in rich dress are carried on relatives’ shoulders. Highlight: Parade with music – Dance, gongs and drums accompany the procession.
Festivals near Wat Chong Kham, Mae Hong Son
- Jong Para (Shan festival, Mae Hong Son) 0 km as the crow flies
- Bua Tong Blossom Festival (Doi Mae U-Kho) 45 km as the crow flies
- Lahu New Year 80 km as the crow flies
- Hmong New Year (Doi Pui) 110 km as the crow flies
- Visakha Bucha 115 km as the crow flies
Also in March / April
- Koh Samui Buffalo Fighting
- Chakri Memorial Day
- Dok Lamduan Flower Festival (Si Sa Ket)
- Eid al-Fitr (Hari Raya Puasa)
- Full Moon Party (Koh Phangan)
- Hae Pha Khun That (Nakhon Si Thammarat)