Sanaa:Ban Ta Khun District Villagers in Khao Wong Subdistrict, Ban Ta Khun District, Surat Thani Province, are combining efforts to preserve their cultural heritage by decorating the unique Phra Phanom boat, the only one of its kind in the district. This initiative is part of their participation in the 2026 Chakk Phra, Thod Pha Pa, and Longboat Racing Festival.
According to Thai News Agency, the villagers have embraced the Thai concept of "Bovorn" — Home, Temple, School — in their collaborative efforts to maintain cultural identity and promote local wisdom. The decorated Phra Phanom boat is being prepared for the annual event, which features a land-based competition among 108 Phra Phanom boats as part of the festival's activities from October 23-31, with the land-based procession scheduled for October 27.
Mr. Kamron Intharat, Mayor of Khao Wong Subdistrict Administrative Organization, led the decoration efforts, involving residents, teachers, and students from local schools. The boat from Wat Bang Sao, renovated and adorned in purple, was inspired by the royal trophy competition, reflecting the birth color of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn and the temple's abbot.
The uniquely decorated Phra Phanom boat, named Phanom Phra, is notable for being adorned with thousands of diamonds, creating a sparkling display at night. Participants expressed pride in contributing to the festival, highlighting the event as a celebration of cultural identity and community unity, in line with the "Bovorn" principle.