Samkong Shrine deity procession draws crowds in Phuket Town

The Lim Hu Tai Su Shrine, also known as Samkong Shrine, brought its sacred deities through Phuket Town on Tuesday, 13 October 2026, drawing crowds of Thai and international spectators during the annual Vegetarian Festival.

The procession marked the festival’s fourth day and the third day of its ‘Iew Keng’ deity procession ceremonies. Devotees dressed in white gathered along the route to pay their respects and receive blessings, while residents set up worship tables outside homes and businesses to present offerings as the procession passed.

Led by flags and banners, the procession included small palanquins known as ‘Tai Pia’ and larger palanquins called ‘Tua Lian’, which carried the sacred deities. It travelled along major roads in Phuket Town before continuing to the tip of Saphan Hin Park for a ritual involving the collection of incense smoke.

Male and female spirit mediums took part in acts of self-mortification, piercing their bodies with sharp objects and weapons. The ritual reflects the belief that the mediums absorb misfortune on behalf of the community.

The procession is held for the deity Kiu Ong Tai Te to visit devotees and bestow blessings for prosperity, good fortune and well-being.

The Tha Ruea Shrine is scheduled to hold its city-wide deity procession on Wednesday, 14 October, beginning at 7:30am.