Spectacular wax sculptures were paraded in Ubon Ratchathani in northeastern Thailand to mark the start of Khao Pansa or 'Buddhist Lent'.

The intricately carved sculptures made from candle wax, depict scenes from Buddhist mythology

In the evening, locals wear silk costumes for organised displays of music and dance. 

Ubon Ratchathani is a particularly popular place for people to see the so-called ‘Candle Festival’ that marks the start of the period in which monks retreat to temples until the end of September.

Candles are used by the monks to dispel the gloom so locals giant wax candle carvings to honour them, though the 'candles' are never burnt.

Spectacular wax sculptures were paraded in Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand on 17 July, to mark the start of Khao Pansa or 'Buddhist Lent'.

The intricately carved sculptures made from candle wax, depict scenes from Buddhist mythology

In the evening, locals wear silk costumes for organised displays of music and dance. 

Ubon Ratchathani in northeastern Thailand is a particularly popular place for people to see the so-called ‘Candle Festival’ that marks the start of the period in which monks retreat to temples until end of September.

Candles are used by the monks to dispel the gloom so locals giant wax candle carvings to honour the monks, though the candles are never burnt.