• Skip to main content
  • Skip to header right navigation
  • Skip to after header navigation
  • Skip to site footer

Thailand Travel ADVICE

Thaizer Thailand

Thaizer

Thailand news, tips & advice

  • Home
  • Start Here
  • About
    • Contact
  • Blog
  • Destinations
  • Do’s & Don’ts
  • Events & Festivals
  • Weather

Monk Baskets

Monk basketsIf you are out and about shopping in Thailand you may notice some shops selling orange baskets or buckets which contain a number of everyday items like soap, detergent and toothpaste. These buckets are bought by lay-people who then donate them to monks or to the temple. By doing this, the person making the donation makes merit (‘tham boon’). The buckets are normally orange or saffron coloured and are often wrapped in cellophane.

The monk baskets are another example of how Thailand has combined ancient ritual with modern practicality. You will still see Thai people donating food and money to monks as the monks make their morning alms round, but the orange baskets may be donated for special occasions. For example, if somebody buys a new car or a new house in Thailand, it’s common practice for monks to be invited to perform a blessing ceremony. At the end of the ceremony a donation is made to the monks. This may be money which is placed on a pedestal tray or it may be the practical offering of the orange bucket which contains useful everyday items. The buckets or baskets vary in size and price and can be found at stores near temples or even in supermarkets like Tesco Lotus and Big C.

Category: Culture & Etiquette

Book your Thailand transport

Powered by 12Go system

About Roy Cavanagh

Roy Cavanagh is a former stand-up comedian who now works as a freelance writer and website designer. Passionate about Thailand and Thai culture, Roy is also the editor of the online magazine, Fan Club Thailand.

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

Sidebar

Compare Thailand accommodation

  • Central Thailand
  • East Thailand
  • North Thailand
  • South Thailand

About Thaizer

Thank you for your interest in Thaizer. My name is Roy Cavanagh and I’ve been fortunate enough to live in Thailand and travel to every region of the country over a number of years. Thaizer.com is where I share my knowledge and experience with you. Just like any destination, Thailand has its good points and its bad points and I try to offer honest and practical advice.

Read MORE

Recent Posts

  • Bangkok’s new train station: Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal (Bang Sue Grand Station)
  • Thailand Entry Rules
  • Thailand news: January 2023
  • HRH Princess Bajrakitiyabha
  • Visa rules for tourists travelling to Thailand
  • How to buy Thailand train tickets online
  • Public Holidays in Thailand, 2023
  • Chiang Mai City Pillar Inthakin Festival

Where to Go

When to Go

Plan your trip

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Copyright © 2023 · Thaizer · Privacy Policy