World Thai Martial Arts Festival and Wai Khru Muay Thai Ceremony

World Thai Martial Arts Festival

The ancient capital of Ayutthaya is home to the annual World Thai Martial Arts Festival and Wai Khru Muay Thai Ceremony. For individuals trained in the ancient Thai art of boxing or "Muay Thai", the annual Wai Khru Muay Thai Ceremony held during the annual Thai Martial Arts Festival is the most important date on their calendar. Muay Thai boxers from around the world return to Ayutthaya to pay respect to their teachers, and to pay homage to the legendary Muay Thai folk hero, Nai Khanom Tom.

Each year, more than 300 boxers from 30 countries including the United Kingdom, Canada, Russia, Korea, France, Ukraine, and South Africa, participate in the festival and show their appreciation for the beautiful art of Muay Thai. This year the event will take place from 17 to 23 March 2012

There will be a Muay Thai tournament with boxers contending for the Nai Khanom Tom belt with a cash prize for the weight divisions of 60, 65, 70, and 80 kilograms. There will also be a Wai Khru competition for students.

Highlights and activities include Muay Thai exhibition, Muay Thai performance, and Muay Thai tournament. Visitors with a special interest in the art of Muay Thai will have an opportunity to learn about this combat sport and enjoy live demonstration of the making of Thai handicraft, and Thai cuisine.

Please click to view program details and official web site