The event marked the 35th edition of the annual feast, which aims to promote tourism in the central province renowned for its abundant macaque population residing in the downtown area.
A diverse gathering of Thai and foreign tourists, including visitors from Spain, Italy, the US, China and Japan, flocked to witness the lively spectacle.
Divided into three distinct groups based on their territories around the Phra Karn Shrine, these monkeys are known for their occasional turf disputes.
Presided over by Lop Buri deputy governor Pratchaya Pepatung and Yongyuth Kijwatananuson, president of the Lop Buri Tourism Association, the feast began with offerings of fruits to the shrine’s spirit. Locals believe the spirit holds sway over the monkey community.
Inside the shrine’s compound, an array of fruits and sweets adorned tables for the monkey’s delight, prompting them to immediately descend on the feast. Staff also provided trays of fruits for monkeys outside the shrine.
Yongyut said this year’s feast, replenished four times every two hours from 10am cost a total of 300,000 baht.
Credit: http://nationthailand
