There are many views about this, and for me, it boils down to what drives you and why are you doing this. If you are participating due to true intent, thus genuineness and purposefulness, then this is truly amazing to experience. I found it to be a profoundly spiritual personal experience. More

We didn't go into town as heard loads of people get in the way so asked our hotel who organized sticky rice for us and we were the only ones there in the morning, wicked experience You can read more if you like at www.travellingwiththejoneses.com More

a very good introduction to the basics of the buddist religion More

We had heard many points of view on the alms giving, whether to participate or not. We are "a little bit Buddhist" and decided to partake 'properly', ie actually GIVING rather than intrusively photographing, and are glad we did so. Just a word of caution, though ... try to organise yourself to have an ABSOLUTE limit on your spending for... More

It was worth the early start to the morning to experience this ceremony. If you do not follow the Buddist religion then it is inappropraite to participate. Some tourists just don't get what it is about and behave disrespectfully. To stand back in silence and watch is wonderful and worth every moment especially if you get away from the street... More

This is about the benefit of providing an offering to others with "no expectation" of a return. Very humbling, very moving and has a a real feel good effect. More

Find a back street away from the main 'night market' area and you will experience the real thing. Unfortunately the main street has been hijacked by local traders and bus loads of tourists who have spoilt the poignancy of this moving ritual. We stayed at Satri House. There is a monastery just a few meters up the road and the... More

Probably the highlight for me. Observing the giving of alms to the monks is not to be missed.The quietness as they progressed along the street in the early morning was visually beautiful. The only thing which spoiled the ceremony was some tourists did not observe a respectful distance from the monks when taking photos which was disappointing More

It was worth getting up at 5:30am to watch the monks collect alms. We were approached by a lady selling a basket of sticky rice and mini bananas to give to the monks. It was fun being part of this ceremony. Locals line the streets to give alms mainly sticky rice and bananas to the monks. It is quite colorful... More