Thailand’s Hidden Rituals That Will Upend Everything You Thought You Knew

Mon, 04 May 2026 23:06:09 +0000

# Thailand’s Hidden Rituals That Will Upend Everything You Thought You Knew Thailand is often celebrated for its vibrant street markets, serene temples, and warm hospitality. But behind these familiar scenes lies a world of deeply rooted traditions and lesser-known rituals—hidden practices that challenge conventional assumptions and reshape how we understand Thai culture, spirituality, and daily life. These rituals, often kept under the radar by tourists and even some locals, offer a fresh, thought-provoking perspective on what it means to live in Thailand today. ## The Spirit World Beneath the Surface One of Thailand’s most fascinating yet misunderstood rituals involves communication with spirits. Far from being just superstition, practices like Phi Thamnirod (spirit mediumship) reveal a profound spiritual world interwoven into everyday life. Mediums—often women—enter trance states to channel spirits, offering guidance, healing, and warnings about misfortune. Far from being sensationalist, these acts reflect a deep cultural belief in unseen forces influencing health, luck, and destiny.