Phuket’s Vegetarian Festival, locally known as the Nine Emperor Gods Festival, is a cultural phenomenon that draws travellers from around the globe. This nine-day celebration, taking place during the first nine days of the ninth lunar month — typically in September or October — transforms the island into a vibrant stage of faith, tradition and culinary delight. In 2025, the festival will be held from 21 – 29 October.
From the bustling streets of Phuket Town to the serene sanctuaries of its sacred shrines, the festival is a visual and spiritual feast. After immersing yourself in this unique cultural experience, unwind in the unparalleled comfort of Kata Rocks, where refined luxury meets exceptional hospitality.
Whether you are a cultural enthusiast, a foodie or a seeker of meaningful experiences, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival promises an extraordinary journey.
DISCOVER THE HEART OF PHUKET’S CULTURAL HERITAGE
Rooted in Chinese Taoist traditions, the Vegetarian Festival was introduced to Phuket by Chinese immigrants in the 19th century and has since become an intrinsic part of the island’s cultural identity. The festival honours the Nine Emperor Gods, with devotees observing a strict vegetarian or vegan diet to purify both body and mind.
One of the festival’s most remarkable features is the extraordinary devotion of Ma Song, spirit mediums who perform awe-inspiring acts such as cheek piercings, fire walking, and climbing bladed ladders. These rituals are believed to invite divine blessings and safeguard the community — a display of faith as visually striking as it is spiritually profound.
SPECTACULAR RITUALS AND VIBRANT PRECISSIONS
Over nine days, Phuket comes alive with colourful street processions, traditional music and the crackle of firecrackers warding off malevolent spirits. Devotees dressed in white, symbolising purity, carry statues of the Nine Emperor Gods through the streets, creating a mesmerising spectacle for visitors.
Key ceremonies, such as the raising of the Go Teng pole, mark the festival’s official commencement. Sacred temples, including Jui Tui Shrine and Kathu Shrine, serve as the spiritual heart of the celebration and are must-visit destinations for those wishing to fully embrace the experience.
A CULINARY JOURNEY FOR EVERY PALATE
For discerning food lovers, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival is nothing short of a gastronomic paradise. Across the island, street stalls marked with yellow flags serve a diverse array of vegetarian and vegan delicacies — from intricately prepared mock meats to fragrant herbal curries.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Mock Duck – a tofu-based creation with a texture reminiscent of real duck.
- Vegetarian Pad Thai – a flavourful, plant-based interpretation of Thailand’s iconic noodle dish.
- Herbal Soups – infused with local herbs, offering nourishment and aromatic delight.
Many vendors also provide fresh produce that can be cooked at nearby eateries, allowing visitors to enjoy an interactive culinary experience. Top locations include Phuket Old Town, Jui Tui Shrine, Bang Neow Shrine, Kathu Shrine, Naka Weekend Market, and pop-up stalls along the beaches of Patong, Karon and Kata.
SCENIC LOCATIONS AND ICONIC SHRINES
The festival’s backdrop enhances its allure. Streets adorned with vibrant lanterns and yellow flags create a colourful canvas for the celebrations. Notable shrines — Bang Neow, Jui Tui and Kathu — offer a window into Phuket’s rich Chinese–Thai heritage, making them essential stops during your visit.
When the festivities pause, Phuket’s pristine beaches and luxury resorts such as Kata Rocks provide the perfect setting for relaxation, blending cultural immersion with leisurely indulgence.
A SPIRITUAL AND MINDFUL EXPERIENCE
Beyond its striking visuals, the Vegetarian Festival is a deeply spiritual event. The practice of vegetarianism during this period is believed to cleanse both body and mind, aligning with Taoist principles of balance and purity.
A palpable sense of community pervades the festival, as locals and visitors alike come together in harmony through shared rituals and beliefs. Many travellers leave feeling rejuvenated, with a renewed appreciation for mindfulness, reflection and cultural connection.
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR ATTENDING
To make the most of your festival experience:
When to Visit: Align your travel with the ninth lunar month (September–October) and check resort availability in advance.
Dress Code: Wear modest white clothing as a sign of respect and purity. Avoid bright or flashy colours.
Navigating Crowds: Arrive early to secure prime viewing spots and prepare for the loud sounds of firecrackers.
Transport: Use local taxis or public transport to reach key shrines and event locations.
Phuket’s Vegetarian Festival is more than an event — it is a journey through spirituality, tradition and culinary discovery. Whether captivated by extraordinary rituals, fascinated by the island’s spiritual practices or eager to savour local vegetarian cuisine, this festival offers something for every traveller.
Add the Phuket Vegetarian Festival 2025 to your travel itinerary and experience a celebration of faith, culture and community — creating memories that will last a lifetime.